When the Infiniti G35 first came out in 2003, it was an immediate hit. The main reason was it was a four-passenger version of the Nissan 350Z. Same basic engine. Similar, swoopy styling and cutting edge interior.
Well, five years later, the G35 has grown up a bit and is now called the G37. The 37 refers to the engine size, which is now a 3.7-liter V6 that has been tweaked a bit from the 3.5-liter. But Infiniti/Nissan didn’t stop there. The entire exterior has been restyled with new body work that includes an integrated rear spoiler, new grill and L-shaped headlights. The interior also received a major upgrade.
The bigger engine offers 37 more horsepower, now rated at 330. Again, playing with numbers, that 330 is important because the G37s main competitor, the BMW 335i just upped the horsepower to 300.
And, finally, one more set of numbers. The G37 that we tested was priced at $36,715, some $8,000 less than a similar BMW 335i.
That’s a big difference in two cars that are very much alike in their performance, handling, styling and appeal.
The Infiniti is a dream to drive. The handling is precise and the ride is more than acceptable, especially for a sports coupe that’s intended to be driven left and right, rather than straight ahead down a freeway.
There are three trim levels available, base, Journey and Sport. We had the mid-level Journey, which came fully equipped. The only option was $1,000 for the moonroof.
The G37 starts with the push of a button on the dash. The front seats are both power operated and the steering wheel tilts and telescopes and includes audio and cruise controls. The center stack offers a seven-inch information screen for the climate and audio controls. This model didn’t have cruise control, but had XM satellite radio, something BMW doesn’t offer.
Brushed aluminum trim sets off the two-tone interior.
Power windows, doors and mirrors, auto on/off headlights and a tire pressure monitor system are additional standard features.
The rear seating area isn’t generous by any means, but it sure helps when you talk to your insurance agent. Getting into the back takes some agility but the power seats help slide the front seats out of the way.
However, the fun is behind the wheel. The G37 sounds throaty and the auto/manual transmission with paddle shifters is a blast to drive. When you shift, there is no lag time. It’s fun to downshift, watch the rev bar climb and hear the gentle rumble of the engine.
The 350Z is more of a sports car, but the G37 isn’t that far behind and you have two extra seats if you need them.

Ryan’s Ride –
I like what they’ve done with the G37. Before, it was too much of a clone to the 350Z, especially in the styling department.
The new look is distinctive and stylish. The sculpted hood, headlights and the rear spoiler add to the sporty look.
It was noted earlier that the BMW 335i is a main competitor. We’ve had both to test. Overall, I’d have to go with the Infiniti simply because it’s easier to operate, has less “gadgets” and still performs about the same.
Infiniti/Nissan’s push button start/stop feature is one of the best on any vehicle.
The steering wheel not only adjusts to every driver’s needs, but has audio and climate control at your finger tips. If the G37 had heads-up display, it would nearly perfect.
The increase in power can definitely be felt. It may not be the quickest on the market, but the G37 can get you from here to there in a short time. The handling is precise, especially under heavy braking and turning. On a winding, mountain road, the G37 felt like it was on rails. Maybe that’s because I grew up driving rear-wheel drive vehicles and have a comfort level for that feeling.
While I still like the 350Z, the G37 isn’t a bad alternative.

Marilyn’s Moment –
It’s not often that we have a sporty car that I like as much as Ryan does. He’s definitely more aggressive and puts them through their paces more than I do. But I had a great time driving the G37.
I was able to get comfortable immediately by adjusting the seats and steering wheel. And, I agree, the start/stop feature is terrific.
It has plenty of power, drives nicely and looks terrific from the outside. All the gauges are where they need to be, the center stack controls are well located and the information screen gives you all you need to know. I especially liked the option of having the radio station info available on the information screen at the push of a couple of buttons.
The back seat is a bit of a chore to get into, but this isn’t a family car. It’s a sports car with four seats. The back lid opens easily and opens up plenty of cargo space as well.
We’ve tested the 350Z several times but I definitely felt more comfortable in the Infiniti. Maybe it was the extra room in the back for the seats, but there was a definite comfort level with this car.
The G37 would be a good compromise for us.