Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Infiniti G35 AWD sedan. I really enjoyed the G37 sporty version better, but if I were in need of a more functional back seat this would appeal to me more. For one, you sacrifice very little in performance and get 4-door convenience for less money.
Some say the badge is not up to other luxury cars but I disagree. Over the years I’ve found Infiniti to be as good as the competition it goes head to head with.
General Info:
Parts – n/a.
Assembly – Los Angeles, CA USA
Class: – Midsize cars.
Cars: – EX, FX, G35, G37, M and QX56.
Performance wise this sedan is close to the G37 and of course a better all around car. The G37 provided a bit more hair raising speed but not as wild and crazy as the Corvette Z’s for example. If I need to get my heart started the Vette is the “E” ticket ride. But the G35 is still impressive with 0-60 in about 5.4 seconds.
It provides a confident handling feel and thus not only encourages spirited driving, it makes the whole driving experience more comfortable. Hard to place a value on that but I find it indispensable when comparing all the cars I drive. I have come to consider that a major element in the buying decision for me. We all spend entirely too much time in our cars so it may as well be a pleasant experience.
That reminds me, I need to look into one of those new comfortable mattresses that I slept in at a hotel in Vancouver, Washington recently.
Styling:
Generally the lines of the G35 follow those of the sport coupe G37 – which is a good thing.
Fit and Finish:
Infiniti quality is evident the first time you sit inside and your senses are aroused by the attention to detail and the overall look and feel.
Cost:
The competition is brutally capable but the G35 is in the hunt with correct pricing for the crowd.
Features and Conveniences:
Very good standard equipment package.
Consumer Recommendation:
This is one of the most closely matched groups of cars I’ve seen in a good long time. Virtually each one lights my fire. I’m particularly drawn to the Cad CTS; I love that car. I believe the final decision for most if you drove them all would still come down to personal preference and experience with a specific brand. My experience owning a foreign car repair facility for many years colors my thinking I must admit. Audi and BMW were expensive repair nightmares; Chrysler also used to have quality issues; Volvo and Saab are quality conscious but boring (to me). The German cars generally are all expensive to maintain and repair. So the CTS continues to come out on top for me because I have owned eight Cadillac’s over the years and always had good experience with cost to benefit. Good luck in your search; this one will be a tough decision.
Recognized Competition:
Infiniti G35 $32-34,000, Cadillac CTS $33-35,000, Audi A4 $29-48,000, Mercedes-Benz C-Class $32-37,000, Acura TL $34-38,000, Saab 9-3 $28-46,000, Volvo S40 $24-30,000, Chrysler 300 $25-42,000, Lexus IS $31-36,000, BMW 3-Series $32-49,000.
Good News:
Roomy, fast, nice styling and great standard equipment.
Bad News:
Only fair fuel economy.
Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 306 hp V6 engine, five speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, independent front and rear suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, brake assist, four wheel anti lock brakes, vehicle speed sensitive Power steering, auto on off headlights, Trunk release button, power heated side view mirrors, 17 inch five spoke aluminum alloy wheels, leather appointed heated eight way power drivers and front passenger seats, intelligent key with push button ignition, XM satellite radio, six speaker audio system, in dash six CD changer and MP3 CD-ROM playback, audio system auxiliary input, 7 inch color display, cruise control with steering wheel controls, power Windows, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, manual tilt and telescoping steering wheel, analog clock, steering wheel audio controls, dual zone temperature control, rear window defroster, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, advanced air bag system with supplemental side airbags, lower anchors and tethers for children, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system and vehicle security system with immobilizer system.
Gas Stats:
$3.60/ Gal avg. Mar 24, ‘08
for more information.
17 City and 23 Highway MPG
www.safercar.gov or 888-327-4236
Pricing:
MSRP $34,100.
