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First Drives

Infiniti G37 S Coupe (European drive) CAR review

First drive

11 December 2007 16:07

Who are they trying to kid? Will Europeans really consider a premium car built by Nissan? Infiniti arrives in Europe in 2008 and we’re first to drive the new G37 Coupe to find out if it cuts the mustard.

CAR flew to Switzerland to Infiniti’s new Euro HQ to test the Japanese answer to the 3-series Coupe. This is the latest iteration of the G two-door, previous versions of which have been sold in the US and, badged Skylines, in Japan.

Why would I consider one over a BMW 3-series or Merc CLK?

Let’s cut to the chase. Infiniti wants to offer BMW driving dynamics tied to Lexus levels of customer service. This basic tenet underpins all of Infiniti’s launch activity – and the G37 is pitched accordingly, with big engines and power outputs, high spec and attractive prices.

It shares many of the mechanicals from parent firm Nissan’s 350Z: so there’s a tasty V6, enlarged to 3.7 litres and breathed on with variable valve control; a rear-drive chassis, available on top Sport trim models with four-wheel steer; and some heady power outputs to tempt enthusiasts out of their German machines.

 Click Thumbnails to Enlarge
Infiniti G37 Coupe front three-quarter
Need to know

CAR's rating

rating is 4

Handling

rating is 4

Performance

rating is 4

Usability

rating is 2

Feelgood factor

rating is 4

Readers' rating

rating is 3.5

Statistics

How much? £31,000
On sale in the UK: Spring 2009
Engine: 3696cc 24v V6, 320bhp @ 7000rpm, 270lb ft @ 5200rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Performance: 5.8sec 0-60mph, 155mph, 25mpg, 280g/km CO2 (est)
How heavy / made of? 1664kg/steel
How big (length/width/height in mm)? 4651/1824/1395

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Infiniti G37 S Coupe (European drive) CAR review

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TangoR34

TangoR34 says

RE: Infiniti G37 S Coupe (European drive)

Personally I quite like the aggressive look but then market wise it seems they need a lot of work. Some said it right, there is no diesel, yes the Japs are pretty bad at that including Lexus. then the performance is not competitive enough. The only thing that convice myself is just saying, I'll buy it coz i like the shape, doesn't have nissan badge and it does more miles per gallon. IF they give a full promising sport package like in US and a very good dealer serivice like a 7-year warranty like kia, then they might have a chance.

18 May 2008 12:07

JohnnyBimmer

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JohnnyBimmer says

RE: Infiniti G37 S Coupe (European drive)

Zzzzzzzzzzzz ..........Zzzzzzzzzzz

06 May 2008 06:05

kkirkou

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kkirkou says

No chance...

This is totally ZERO. Especially from the front is very similar to that cabrio-coupe from Lexus that was suposed to challenge the Merc SL and no one remebers its name. This will have the same luck. No one will buy it, especially for this ridiculus sum of money. Stick it to the US please.

09 March 2008 14:59

Madman

Madman says

The Nissan Altima Coupe is front wheel drive whilst the G37 is a rear driver. The thing is that I really can't see Infiniti making much of an impact in Europe. They have no small capacity petrol engines, no diesels and ZERO brand recognition. Lexus is something of a joke in Europe and I see a similar future in store for Infiniti. Cheers, Madman of the People

16 January 2008 21:49

ronwhite

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ronwhite says

Nissan Altima Coupe

While the Infinit is undoubtedly a pretty smooth package, what's the difference between it and the very, very similar Altima coupe. The New York Times prefers the Altima: Some call it a junior G37, but this sleek two-door actually upstages its Infiniti cousin, especially when equipped with a 270-horsepower V-6. The G37 weighs a ponderous 400 pounds more and costs an extra 10 grand. Who needs it, when this charmer can outperform it? Guess the main difference is the name and brand positioning of the Infiniti marque -- not to mention the margins.

29 December 2007 17:32

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