Infiniti

Introduction

Nissan launched its upscale Infiniti division in 1989 with two unique models and a polarizing ad campaign. Two decades later, Infiniti continues to blaze its own trail in pursuit of luxury, performance and style. The Infiniti G37 sport coupe, sedan and convertible are prime examples.

The list of luxury sport coupes and sedans is typically dominated by elite Teutonic nameplates. In readying the G37, Infiniti honed it on test circuits throughout Europe, including Germany's famed Nurburgring. This athletic chassis, along with the G's attractive sticker price, distinctive interior appointments and ample array of technology, makes it well prepared for battle in this class.

The current Infiniti G37

The Infiniti G37 is a luxury sport coupe, sedan or convertible offered in four trim levels: base, Journey, G37x and Sport 6MT. The convertible is only offered in base or Sport 6MT trim, though. For 2010, a special range-topping Anniversary model adds features that include navigation, an upgraded Bose audio system, iPod connectivity and ventilated seats (for the convertible only).

In addition to the long list of standard features packaged with each trim level, several options, including the Anniversary add-ons are available. Adaptive cruise control will alleviate some fatigue on long trips, while the available Sport package will rouse the interest of more aggressive drivers thanks to features like a limited-slip differential, a sport-tuned suspension and brakes, sport seats and bigger wheels. Stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags are standard on all Infiniti G37s, and a pre-collision preparation feature is optional.

The G37 3.7-liter V6 boasts a very healthy 330 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque fed to either the rear wheels or all four (G37x). In base, Journey and G37x trims, the G37 comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters, while the Sport 6MT features a six-speed manual. Both transmissions have their devotees, but the clutch take-up in the manual is a little too abrupt. Of course when a vehicle has so few faults, it's easy to identify them. Acceleration and mileage numbers are comparable between the automatic and manual, so the choice is a matter of personal preference.

The Infiniti G37 is based on Infiniti's enhanced FM (Front Midship) platform; the company says the structure is 36 percent stiffer than the one used for the first-generation G35 coupe. The suspension is comprised of a double-wishbone design in front and a multilink setup in the rear. The ride is firm on Sport models, but only occasionally sports-car harsh.

The G37 offers user-friendly controls, excellent build quality and a handsome design -- the latter highlighted by such items as the car's leather-accented magnesium transmission paddle shifters and the Japanese "Shodo-brushstroke finish" aluminum trim (or optional wood trim). The front seats are comfortable and well-bolstered, and the available sport-styled seats offer even more aggressive bolstering, though they may be a bit too snug for larger drivers. Both the sedan and coupe feel like sports cars wrapped in a luxury car package, but the coupe, with seats that are mounted slightly lower than the sedan's, feels a bit racier.

Overall, the Infiniti G37 stands shoulder to shoulder with all the players in the entry-level luxury segment. Consumers in the market for such a vehicle would be wise to put it at the top of their to-drive list.