Better than: Acura TSX
But not as good as: BMW M5
GRM Bang For The Buck Index: 85.54
This well-equipped sedan is aimed squarely at the BMW driver. It's comfortable and upper-class inside. It is, of course, rear-wheel drive and equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. Its viscous limited-slip differential is perhaps not the best choice on track, but it'll serve well on snowy days. It's essentially a nicely appointed Nissan 370Z, with a lot more utility from its real rear seats.
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I had yet to be impressed by any of Nissan's recent sporting lineup (excepting the GT-R); the Z-car platform today is underpowered in a world of 400-horsepower Mustangs. The Infiniti IPL G Coupe is a very expensive 370Z with a useless back seat; the Z-car itself—especially the convertible—is slower, more expensive, and not any nicer than a Mustang; the Nismo 370Z is an even worse value proposition; the Infiniti G25's seven-speed automatic is slow to shift and just plain old slow, too.
Why, then, does it seem like the G37 sedan makes sense? All its blood is in cars that are underwhelming in their class. But in this one, I forgive the tire roar from the front end. I forget the lousy gas mileage. I can look past the somewhat cheap gauges.
The form factor is a big part of the appeal. This car makes sense as a middle-management commuter: understated looks, excellent steering, an engaging driving experience and three pedals. Though it's not rife with power, it's still very fun to drive. The lack of eye-popping thrust is appropriate here because the driving it is so rewarding. With four doors, it'll nicely transport clients and kids, and make middle-age feel a bit more affluent. I forgive it because it's a sedan. It's far more attractive than the Lexus IS300.
Still, if you can afford the extra eight grand and gas mileage hit, spring for a Chrysler 300 SRT8. That thing will rock your socks.
I'd drive one of these. In fact, every time we get one, I find myself cruising the classifieds for a deal on a used one. A G35 sedan with a stick could probably make a good daily driver/occasional track car. Call it an alternative to a BMW 3 Series.
Yes, there's a few rough edges here and there, but it looks good, pulls nicely, and has a willing, rear-drive chassis.
I like it. I see a callback to MiniLite-type wheels from some angles. Is the screen in the center console removable? BMW did the same kind of thing, made it look more like an aftermarket add-on than integrated into the design, but overall, I really like it. Clean exterior lines but still some sharpness, fairly simple interior by modern standards.
Oh yeah, and 220 lbs lighter than the NC! Any figures on HP/engine yet?
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