Infiniti G37

[Yimbie]

What do you guys think of the upcoming 2008 Infiniti G37? Please also leave a little comment on why you chose it. Thanks!

- Yimbie

[Yimbie]

I personally chose the first one because to me... Infiniti has done an amazing job with this next generation. I personally believe that Infiniti had a different goal with this car and that is to appeal to more the luxury sports coupe market rather than the enthusiast market. It has everything that I would want in a beautiful car both inside and out for a very reasonable price (base estimate is $35,000 while fully loaded is estimated to be about $42,000).

In terms of styling... I really like the curves on the G37 which makes it seem to be more of a luxury tourer than a test track car. The interior has been greatly improved from the last generation and looks pretty much identical with its sedan counterpart, which is not bad at all. It's a major plus. I can't wait until I see the G37 in person because from what the majority of people have been saying... the pictures don't do the car justice.

In terms of performance... for someone like me, the current test numbers that numerous car mags have been obtaining is enough for me. I'm not planning on racing with this car or taking it out to the track. I know that for many people they wanted better performance in terms of speed, but to me it's not really relevant because I ask myself... "When am I ever going to try to achieve those numbers?" hehe. What I primarily looked for in the G37 was how it handled and how it felt. I know that I can't judge the car since I have never driven one but I must say... the current road test reviews are all coming positive on that part so I'm pleased with it.

With the combination of luxury, performance, price, and value... the G37 to me is the perfect car. Great job Infiniti on making such a great car at such a great price!

- Yimbie

[audtatious]

Actually, I did the "I'm Neutral" until I get to see one in person. I know for a fact that it looks a whole lot smaller on images than it is in real life via the specs.

[Kendahl]

In shopping, I have driven Porsche Caymans (both base and S models), a 911 and a 911 Turbo. In all of them, engine and road noise were too high for me to tolerate all day long. The Caymans and the all-wheel-drive Turbo handle remarkably well. With new Porsches, you don't get a spare tire, just a can of fix-a-flat and a 12 volt air compressor.

A used BMW 325xi sounded great, but had short, hard seats and a choppy ride. Since 2006, BMW has gone to run-flat tires which are expensive, short-lived and not repairable. They have also deleted the dipstick for checking engine oil level; there is only a gauge on the insturment panel. I would have test driven a new 328i, but the dealer only had automatics.

A 2008 Audi V6 TT Quattro with the DSG transmission and adaptive shock absorbers was pretty good. However, the ride was choppy because of the short wheelbase. I still prefer a manual transmission. There was little difference between the shock absorbers' normal and sport modes. The cabin was a little bit claustrophobic. As with the Porsches, there is no spare tire.

I have test driven two G35 6MT coupes. Both were quieter and more comfortable than the others. I almost bought one of them, a loaded 2004 model with only 4k miles. Then, I started thinking about the advantages of a G37 -- four years of engineering development and a full warranty. The major criticism of the G35 was that it was somewhat rough around the edges. The consensus among the road tests is that this has been rectified.

A G37 is as fast as a Cayman S or V6 TT. It is quieter and more comfortable than the others. The recommended oil is mineral, not synthetic, so that oil changes are cheap and can be done anywhere. There is still a dipstick for checking oil level. Tires are conventional, not run-flats. It comes with a mini-spare so that you can limp back to civilization after getting a flat 100 miles the wrong side of nowhere. Price is similar to that of a BMW 328i, which isn't as fast, and significantly lower than a 335i, V6 TT or any Porsche. My only criticisms are that the G37 is heavy and not very fuel efficient. However, no car is perfect. A G37 with the premium package meets my needs and desires better than anything else I have found.

[Yimbie]

Welcome to the NICO forums Kendahl.

Thank you for that interesting post. I enjoyed reading it. Are you planning on depositing an order on one?

I also agree that the G37's downfall is the weight, but that seems to be the only thing wrong with it IMO. From what I understand... Infiniti added a lot of the weight to the doors to make the stronger. For me, I'd take safety > bit more performance anyday. At least the fuel mileage should be about 10% better than the outgoing G35 coupe (at least according to Infiniti) and release fewer emissions.

- Yimbie

[Kendahl]

No, I have not placed and early order for a G37. I need to see, touch and drive a real car before I make a final decision.

The local dealer is expecting five cars with a range of options and colors. Three are 6MT models which is surprise considering how hard it has been to find manual transmission cars.

My equipment choices are 6MT and premium package. I don't want 4-wheel-steering. Because I have a computer, GPS receiver and software, I don't need a built-in navigation system. I haven't decided on color; that's a reason to wait to see a real car. One of the cars coming to the dealer is black/black with only the premium package. That was the color of the 2004 model I drove and it was very sharp.

As far as safety is concerned, I buy cars to drive, not to wreck. A safe, economical, boring car would sit in the garage while I drove something more interesting. I grew up in the days of MGBs, Lotus Elans and Jaguar XKEs. My first car was an air-cooled VW beetle without even seat belts. Our 1998 Subaru is the first to have ABS and air bags. For the past 22 years, my fun car has been a 1984 RX-7. Its replacement will be a G37 which I expect to keep for 20 to 30 years until I am too old to drive anything but a wheel chair.

[jackdar]

The current cars in my household are a black/black 2003 G35 Coupe 6MT with premium and aero package, and a white/black 2006 BMW X3 6 speed with premium and sport packages.

In April, I drove to New York to see the premier of the 2008 G37, and at the end of May placed my order for a black/black 6MT with premium, nav, and spoiler.

Although I think the first generation of the Coupe is destined to be a classic, having seen the new body style, I am very much looking forward to driving this new beauty. I have only given minor consideration to the BMW 335 coupe. That engine with 300 foot pounds of torque being available from 1400 to 5200 rpm has got to be a thrill to experience. By the same token, the car I drove prior to my coupe was a Subaru WRX which is also turbo charged, at the same time my wife's car was a 2003 Saab 9-3 also with a turbo. Both of these cars lugged around corners in 2nd gear. Now apparently, BMW has remedied this issue, but I remain skeptical. The 335 coupe is a good looking car, but the G37 has much better lines and a style that will be more appealing for many years to come (IMHO).

Although we would probably buy the X3 again - primarily because it was the best performing mini-ute that had a 6 speed - it has some issues that you would not expect in a $44K vehicle. My major gripes include the interiorm, such as: the dash in general ( unimaginative ), the speedometer and tach ( both are too small and have very limited markings ), the stereo ( to turn it off, you have to repeatedly press the low volume button until it turns off ), the quality of the plastics is of a very low quality ( dull and hard). I don't understand how BMW gets a "pass" on this issue. The quality of the leather on the high touch areas (steering wheel, shift knob, and e-brake handle) after 16 months - shows signs of wear that my G35 doesn't show after 4 years. Finally, on anything but smooth roads, the ride is down-right harsh and punishing. I generally prefer a firm ride, but this is an area where BMW received a lot of complaints and fixed it in the 07 X3.

My G35 Coupe on the other hand feels like a part of me when I drive it. You wear this car more than drive it. When I read the reviews of the new car, the one thing that concerns me is...has Infiniti made it too much of a touring car and "tamed" its rawness. I used to complain about the vibration in the shifter, until I realized the alternative. The shifter in the X3 is totally motionless....which made me realize that those vibrations were "the pulse" of the engine. I have driven BMW coupes and would get out thinking Yes it is a nice car that handles very well but the experience seemed too refined...as if they have gone for too much luxury...at the expense of that personal connection. The one complaint that is legitimate about the G35's VQ is the unpleasant harshness that you hear when the revs reach 5000 rpm....this is the one area of improvement that I would welcome more than any other.

I am 56 years old and have owned many great driving cars, this will be the only time I have purchased the same car twice in a row. I love my G35 Coupe and look forward to a long and rewarding relationship with the G37.

One of the best things about the G37 though is that it will force the next round of competition by which we will all benefit from higher quality and better performance at a greater value.

[Yimbie]

Welcome to NICO, jackdar! Excellent post you made there. I really enjoyed reading it. I can't wait until the G37 coupe comes out.

- Yimbie

[jordan13s]

it looks like a great car...i just hope its not over 45 gs..

[Yimbie]

it looks like a great car...i just hope its not over 45 gs..

From what I know... a fully loaded car will probably be around $43k... $44k at the max.

- Yimbie

[bone_stock_240]

Wow, this is a great thread. It is really refreshing to hear the input of such experienced drivers.

[likwidfuzion]

it looks like a great car...i just hope its not over 45 gs..

The configuration in my signature, all at MSRP, came out to $40,375 (including destination and handling) before taxes, licenses, etc.

[dmkozak]

From what I know... a fully loaded car will probably be around $43k... $44k at the max.

- Yimbie

Now that prices are released, while many would have agreed with your guess, we know a Journey with all Factory options (sport, premium, tech, nav and 4was) will sticker for $45,965, including delivery. Almost $46K for a fully loaded car, a good $2,000 higher than most predicted.

[94infinitiq45]

I drove one today.I work at the Infiniti dealer in Latham.It is somewhat faster and handles much better.The car we got is a sample though.It also sounds much better.You guys who are buying one wont be too disappointed.

[Yimbie]

Now that prices are released, while many would have agreed with your guess, we know a Journey with all Factory options (sport, premium, tech, nav and 4was) will sticker for $45,965, including delivery. Almost $46K for a fully loaded car, a good $2,000 higher than most predicted.

Yeah I know about that. It was higher than I expected but it wasn't shockingly higher. It's understandable to me why it's priced higher.

- Yimbie

[Yimbie]

I drove one today.I work at the Infiniti dealer in Latham.It is somewhat faster and handles much better.The car we got is a sample though.It also sounds much better.You guys who are buying one wont be too disappointed.

I'm very much looking forward to the first time I can drive the car. Bah I'm so enthusiastic for the G37 and all these other people are getting to see it in person and drive it! (nothing wrong with that though )

- Yimbie

[ibpis]

I think it's ok.Need to see one in person...

[KinsmanRedeemer]

In defense of Nissan, the US Dollar is much weaker than in 2002 when the '03 G35 launched. If they can take the opportunity to raise the price based on the redesign, I don't blame them.

My Audi A6, in 09/04, based at $40k and was out the door at $45 prior to taxes, etc... Today--same car, no redesign, no engine improvements, etc...--the car bases at $45.5k and goes out the door at $50k with comparable equipment. IMO, Infiniti actually is showing a bit of restraint.

[dmkozak]

In defense of Nissan, the US Dollar is much weaker than in 2002 when the '03 G35 launched. If they can take the opportunity to raise the price based on the redesign, I don't blame them.

Two problems with this line of reasoning. First, when the redesigned G35 sedan was introduced a year ago, the price increase was $250. Granted people expected a larger increase with the G37 because of the VVEL technology, but the increase was a little larger than anticipated.

Second, the big increase was the Premium Package going from $2,350 for the redesigned G35 sedan to $3,200. The only changes were the addition of iPod integration and a second soundstage for the Bose. Are these two changes really the cause of a $850 increase?

[KinsmanRedeemer]

That's cool, I appreciate your opinion. I'm just saying that a weak dollar means that where Infiniti can ramp up prices, it will. It makes perfect sense to ramp up the pricing on a "hot" car (versus the sedan, comparatively speaking) and on a higher-end options package where your customer base will accept less elastic pricing. This is all speculation anyhow, but if I were in their shoes, I'd probably do something similar through the same means I just cited.

[Yimbie]

Second, the big increase was the Premium Package going from $2,350 for the redesigned G35 sedan to $3,200. The only changes were the addition of iPod integration and a second soundstage for the Bose. Are these two changes really the cause of a $850 increase?

We shouldn't judge the G37's premium package price when the 08 G35 sedan's premium package price isn't even out yet. It's not fair!

- Yimbie

[pippen99]

Just completed purchase of G37 at Sam Swope Infiniti in Louisville, Ky. purchased 2008 G37 Journey: Ivory Pearl with Wheat interior, premium package MSRP 38,915. Trade-in 2003 G35 coupe 5AT with Premium package original MSRP 34,265. 46,800 miles. Purchase price 19,000 plus taxes and fees(400.00 in document fees?). Delivery by end of month probably next week.I had to test drive a G37S, but hope a Journey will drive the same. First impressions: The car is a vast improvement over my 2003. The interior is miles better put together. The interior noise level is drastically reduced.(minus less of the lovely engine growl) The brakes were much more progressive and easier to modulate. My 2003 brakes were on or off. The stereo system was much improved(great sound)as the 2003 bose stereo was premium in name only.I can't say how it compares to a 2006 or 2007 but the 2008 is head and heels better than my 2003. I look forward to sharing more of my experience when I take delivery next week.(only 4 out of 12 or 15 of the dealerships first allotment were presold so this may not be that big a hit or maybe this is just the midwest.

[joeygott]

So many people are commenting about the difference in noise levels from the g35 to g37. If you look at the actual readings (db at idle, at speed, etc), there is practically no difference at all. The reason most people feel this big difference is because of the TIRE noise on the g35 after you get a few thousand miles on them. With new tires on both cars, you won't be able to tell that much difference. The NVH has been improved and that's a good thing. As far as fuel economy, it's quite bad. You won't see the 10% increase, I guarantee you. If you look at the REALIZED MPG by magazines doing the reviews, it should be obvious that you won't be seeing better MPG.

[audtatious]

Just completed purchase of G37 at Sam Swope Infiniti in Louisville, Ky. purchased 2008 G37 Journey: Ivory Pearl with Wheat interior, premium package MSRP 38,915. Trade-in 2003 G35 coupe 5AT with Premium package original MSRP 34,265. 46,800 miles. Purchase price 19,000 plus taxes and fees(400.00 in document fees?). Delivery by end of month probably next week.I had to test drive a G37S, but hope a Journey will drive the same. First impressions: The car is a vast improvement over my 2003. The interior is miles better put together. The interior noise level is drastically reduced.(minus less of the lovely engine growl) The brakes were much more progressive and easier to modulate. My 2003 brakes were on or off. The stereo system was much improved(great sound)as the 2003 bose stereo was premium in name only.I can't say how it compares to a 2006 or 2007 but the 2008 is head and heels better than my 2003. I look forward to sharing more of my experience when I take delivery next week.(only 4 out of 12 or 15 of the dealerships first allotment were presold so this may not be that big a hit or maybe this is just the midwest.

Congrats on the purchase. I actually considered putting some money down on the pearl/wheat when it was available (at Sam Swope) but didn't want the wheat interior.