Nissan’s luxury division, Infiniti, offers many models similar to Nissan, but they’re a little plusher, and a little more expensive.
We recently tested two Infiniti sedans, the 2008 M35 and the 2009 Infiniti G37. Both are built on the same rear-wheel drive platform and have many of the same features. However, the M35 carries a price sticker of $48,765 and the G37 is $40,585.
The biggest difference, other than the ride and handling qualities, is under the hood. The M35 has Nissan’s venerable 3.5-liter, V6, which will be continued in the 2009 models. The G37 has an upgraded version of the engine, which is now 3.7 liters.
The M35 offers 275 horsepower, while the G37 has an asphalt-kicking 328 horsepower. The latter is the same basic engine as is in the all-new 370-Z, which goes on sale in January. When introduced in 2005 as a G35, it was called by some a four-seat Z-car, which isn’t a bad comparison. The G37 continues that trend, although the new Z-car has been improved in all areas.
It’s hard to compare the two vehicles, because the M35 was equipped with a five-speed automatic with manual shift option. The G37 we tested had a super-slick six-speed manual. A new seven-speed automatic is optional.
The interiors are very similar with a cockpit-like center console with navigation screen. The audio and climate controls are very user friendly. An information system on the screen behind the steering wheel and the navigation screen provides several options for ultimate driver settings.
Both offer push-button start/stop and audio controls on the steering wheel.
The navigation system has several options and is very easy to use. As part of the audio system, both vehicles offer a “music box” hard drive that can store up to 2,900 songs. Both also are compatible with Bluetooth and MP3 accessories.
The M35 is more of a luxury car with a softer suspension. The G37, on the other hand, is much sportier and the ride a little harsher.
The choice, therefore, becomes (other than money) whether you want a very capable luxury car or a sporty, kick in the pants, sports car.

Ryan’s Ride –
Christmas came a little early for me this year with these two wonderful test vehicles.
The M35 is an incredible sports-luxury car. The ride is sublime. The handling isn’t as keen as the G37, but not far off. The interior is gorgeous with subtle touches of wood and brushed chrome.
The G37 is definitely more of a sports car and I had a ball driving it on the back roads to our mountain cabin in Ellijay. The six-speed transmission is the best ever from Nissan/Infiniti. The aluminum pedals are straight from the race track. Even the kickplates are illuminated when you open the doors.
The one-touch ignition system is something that should be copied by everyone. Several other manufacturers offer a push button system, but you have to still insert the key fob in the dash first, which seems redundant.
Both are rear-wheel drive, which is what I grew up driving and still prefer in most cases.
The M35 is joined by an M45 with a V8 engine, but you’re talking serious money then. A sedan is the only choice with the M series cars.
The G37 is available in sedan, coupe or convertible versions so there’s something available for everyone.
I did note one big difference in the cars. The heating system in the M35 took quite a while to kick in. The G37s system warmed up the interior and seats much quicker.
I’ve also seen, but not driven, the all-new Z-car. Since I don’t need four seats, I may have to hold off my final choice until I get to drive the new Z-car. Until then, I’m going to lean more toward the G37 because it was a lot more fun to drive.

Marilyn’s Moment –
If you’re not impressed by the interior of the M35, there’s something wrong with you. I love the center console layout, the comfortable seats and the smooth ride.
The heated leather seats, steering wheel and accents of chrome and wood offer a very plush look all around.
The G37’s interior isn’t much different, but I could definitely tell the difference on the road. Whereas, the M35 glided along the pavement, the G37 was a little jarring.
As noted, it’s hard to compare them on all fronts because of the automatic versus manual transmissions. I don’t mind manual shifting, but the automatic was much more comfortable. Maybe, if we had tested the G37 with an automatic, I would have a different opinion.
Both cars offer controls that are easy to use. The navigation system is terrific and the optional XM satellite radio system offers voice-activated, real-time traffic information. Now that we live in the mountains, that isn’t as important to me, but it does come in handy when I do have to venture into the big city and its inherent traffic.
There are a lot of sports-luxury vehicles out there, but the two Infiniti’s we recently tested will hold their own against any of them.