Automotive Editor
Front engine. Rear-wheel drive. Four doors. It just does not get much better than this. Infinity's fresh new G35 sedan for 2003 - soon to be joined by a bold new sports-coupe version - is among a pack of brand-new cars with an old, favorite twist.
In a configuration that Detroit has long ago all but abandoned, the front-engine, rear-drive automobile is about to make a comeback. GM is already on the bandwagon with it's all-new Cadillac CTS, and most other major players either are now or will soon follow with the traditional, genuine automobile.
The G35 is as dramatic a driver as it is in styling and engineering. On the performance, styling, and engineering side of the equation, it gets very high marks. It adopts a new generation platform specifically designed for mounting a V6 engine behind the front axle in the so-called "front mid-ship" position. This design pays big dividends in driving feel, passenger space and ride comfort.
The location of the G35's compact V6 behind the front axle allows the use of a low, aggressive hoodline, which flows into the sharply angled windshield and contributes to the G35's sporty silhouette. The hood is made of aluminum for less weight. The front fascia features an Infiniti-style, horizontal crosspiece grille, low-postured front bumper and vertically stacked headlight assembly with integrated fog lights and turn signals. Large rear combination lamps with LED taillights highlight the rear fascia.
The driving experience was a breath of fresh air, at least for any die-hard front-engine rear-drive car nut like me. With virtually no "torque steer" found in all front-drive cars, the G35's road manners in both the wet and dry are predictable, quick, and forgiving. The car is as stable as a freight train under hardest throttle and braking, with minimal body roll in hard cornering.
A new 260-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 with 260 lb-ft of torque comes standard on every G35; along with an advanced, 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Bottom line - there is plenty of smoothly delivered power to rear wheels - easily tamed by its 4-wheel independent multi-link suspension, and ventilated disc brakes with ABS on each corner.
Inside, the G35 cabin is a pleasant environment. A three-spoke steering wheel provides a firm grip and sporty feel and the instrument panel features Infiniti's fine vision illumination system and signature analog clock. I especially like the interior's T-shaped structure, with its flowing design theme from the center instrument cluster to the floor console. Leather is very typical Infinity - the best - and a unique platinum satin finish trims the cockpit.
Audio systems include a standard 6-speaker AM/FM/cassette with in-dash 6-disc CD changer and an optional 200-watt 7-speaker Bose(r) Premium audio system with an AM/FM/cassette in-dash 6-disc CD changer with RDS, speed-sensitive volume control and steering wheel audio controls.
Our test car had the Premium Package, which includes the Bose audio system, adjustable rear seats, sunroof and more; Sport-Tuned Suspension Package, which adds 17-inch alloy wheels with W-rated performance tires and upgraded suspension; and the Aero Package, which includes the Sport-Tuned Suspension Package and adds rear spoiler with rear underbody rear side fairing.
COMPARISON VEHICLES: Current sport sedans such as the BMW 3-series, Lexus IS300, Audi A4 2.8, Cadillac CTS.
HIGHS: Proper configuration of front-engine, rear-wheel drive. Excellent build quality, materials, fit and finish. Analog clock. Smooth and quiet engine. Very smart "pod" contains instrument cluster, steering wheel and stalks; all adjust together.
LOWS: Seats are not as comfortable for this driver. Volume control is push-button instead of rotating dial. Fresh air ventilation intake drew dust into cabin while on dirt road. No locking fuel filler door.
PRICE: Base Price $28,950 and $31,395 as tested with Premium package, power glass sunroof, and destination charges.
FUEL ECONOMY: EPA estimates 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway.
LIFE'S A TRIP - Enjoy the drive. Be a safe and courteous driver, obey all highway laws, never drive impaired and always buckle-up.
Copyright © 2002 The Weekend Drive®.
