By KBB.com Editors
KBB Expert Rating: 7.7
Note this revealing fact: Infiniti offers a genuine, stir-your-own 6-speed manual gearbox on every G37 body style. Performance with refinement is the message here and for 2013 the Infiniti G37 series continues to captivate hearts and minds with stylish good looks, modern technology and exceptional road manners. And, obviously, we aren't the only ones noticing: The G37 family is Infiniti's best-selling line. And it's a diverse line, with sedan, coupe and convertible body styles, rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and two IPL (Infiniti Performance Line) limited-production specials. The G37s get categorized as "near-luxury," but that feels unfair somehow. These cars are all there.
If you want an entry-level luxury vehicle that delivers thrilling performance, handsome styling and lots of bang for your buck, the 2013 Infiniti G37 series is worth a close look.
The 2013 Infiniti G37 is a terrific all-around performer, but if we had to nitpick, grievances would include the V6 engine's thirst for fuel and the coupe/convertible's meager rear-seat headroom. Additionally, if you obsess over "communicative steering feel," the BMW 3 Series deserves consideration.
What's New for 2013
The cars themselves get few changes but the lineup is rationalized for 2013. The 4-cylinder G25 Sedan and base model Coupe go away. Both sedan and coupe lines offer the same Journey, AWD (G37x) and Sport 6MT packages. The lusty IPL (Infiniti Performance Line) Coupe gets a Convertible stablemate.
Driving Impressions Every Infiniti G37 pampers its occupants with a comfortable ride, a strong sense of refinement and an array of high-tech goodies. But drive enthusiastically and the sportiest Infiniti satisfies like...
few competitors can, with accurate steering, crisp brakes and a planted feel. The responsive 3.7-liter V6 pulls strongly, whether mated to the 7-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. Should you find the Sport 6MT package not quite sporty enough, Infiniti offers a higher-performance variant, the IPL (Infiniti Performance Line) on the coupe or convertible bodies, with more power, tauter suspension and larger brakes. All G models benefit from a driver-selectable Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system that allows you to explore pretty far out toward the edge before the system intervenes. If you live in a frosty climate, or prefer a little extra traction driving out of corners, you can opt for the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system on the coupe or sedan (with automatic transmission only).7-INCH LCD INFORMATION SCREEN
The 7-inch touch-screen display found in every Infiniti G37 features an intuitive, visually appealing interface and serves as the control center for options such as iPod integration, a hard-drive navigation system with real-time traffic and weather info, backup camera and hard-drive (9.3-gig) and CompactFlash card music access.
INTELLIGENT CRUISE CONTROL
As a G37 option, Infiniti's Intelligent Cruise Control system helps maintain a pre-set distance from the vehicle traveling ahead of you. When that distance becomes shorter than the driver's pre-set parameters, Intelligent Cruise Control will renew the predetermined distance by automatically reducing the vehicle's speed.
Interior
The 2013 Infiniti G37's interior is exceptional both in design and in the quality of materials used. The luxurious cabin is marked by supple leather-trimmed seating surfaces and elegant, soft-sheen "Silk Obi" aluminum trim. The form-fitting standard driver's seat features 8-way power adjustability, while Sport 6MT models offer increased support and 12-way adjustability (adds bolsters and thigh extensions). Complementing the G37's contemporary architecture is a sharp 7-inch, full-color display. Outward visibility is commendable on the G37 sedan, but the coupe and convertible sacrifice a little for their racy C-pillar contours.
Exterior
Every iteration of the Infiniti G37 series comes wrapped in a well-tailored suit of sleek sheet metal combined with subtle chrome accents and Infiniti's signature 4-bar grille design. When night falls, standard bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights provide an upscale, modern look. Both the 2013 Infiniti G37 coupe and convertible offer available 19-inch wheels, and both can now be ordered in the exclusive high-performance IPL edition, which adds aggressive front and rear styling, side sills and a rear spoiler.
Well-appointed from the start, the Infiniti G37 series includes leather-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Infiniti's Intelligent Key "keyless" entry system - the key never needs to leave your pocket or purse - with push-button start, a 6-speaker audio system with an auxiliary audio jack for MP3 players, dual-zone automatic climate control, 8-way power driver's seat with a 4-way power passenger's seat and bi-xenon headlights.
All G37 models offer an extensive list of optional goodies, most of which are wrapped into Premium, Navigation and Technology packages. There's a Bose premium audio system, sonar proximity warning system for those tricky parking spots, hard-drive navigation system with 3D building graphics and advanced voice recognition, adaptive cruise control to help alleviate the frustration associated with highway traffic, sport-tuned suspension, supremely comfortable 12-way power driver's seat and warm maple accents.
The G37's robust 3.7-liter V6 is the latest iteration of Nissan's renowned VQ35-series all-aluminum DOHC engine. Highly sophisticated variable valve timing and lift beats the normal tuning compromises to benefit power, drivability and efficiency. With either a 7-speed automatic or close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission - offered on all three body styles, to Infiniti's credit - the G37 has EPA fuel economy numbers that are slightly above average for the class, and impressive considering the cars' performance potential. Different engine-management software and exhaust plumbing make the engine fractionally stronger in the coupe than the sedan, and the IPL versions squeeze out a little more still.
3.7-liter V6
328 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm (Sedan)
269 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm (Sedan)
330 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm (Coupe, Convertible)
270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm (Coupe, Convertible)
343 horsepower @ 7,400 rpm (IPL Convertible)
273 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm (IPL Convertible)
348 horsepower @ 7,400 rpm (IPL Coupe)
276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm (IPL Coupe)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/27 mpg (Coupe/ Sedan, automatic), 18/25 mpg (Coupe/Sedan, AWD), 17/25 mpg (Coupe/Sedan, manual; Convertible, automatic), 16/24 mpg (Convertible, manual)
The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) for the 2013 Infiniti G37 models start at just under $38,000 for the Journey Sedan, about $41,000 for the Journey Coupe and around $48,000 for the Convertible. The AWD G37x is about $1,500 higher than those amounts and the Sport 6MT models about $4,000 higher. The aggressive IPL models run almost $52,000 for the Coupe and $62,000 for the Convertible. Among German nameplates, those with similar horsepower and features cost significantly more. The residual-value story, however, is less clear-cut. Though a G37 will retain a solid percentage of its original cost over time, and fare better than the Lincoln MKZ, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Cadillac CTS and Audi A4, it does fall a bit short of the projected residual values of the Acura TSX and Audi A5, and well short of the values of the BMW 3 Series and Lexus ES 350.
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Infiniti G vehicles for sale near you.
Based on 233 Ratings for the 2007 - 2013 models.
Review this carBy Ozram on Thursday, July 25, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 84,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "execellent automobile without breaking the bank."
Cons: "Small battery - dont leave the lights on!"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Almost 90K miles on the G35 Sport Sedan and not a single mechanical issue, besides regular maintenance. I am a previous BMW 330-series owner and this car beats the pants off the Beamer any day, any time. When the lease experied on the BMW we went and looked at the Infinity, then Lexus and the new Mercedes C class. The Mercedes was too expensive and did not offer the the confort of the G series. The Merecedes dealer had ours in the used lot with only 12K miles it looked as it was never driven, and at a fairly good discounted price. My wife loved it, and that was that. The car's front seats are comfortable, yet provide the support for a spirited driving experience. The rear seats offers space for four adults (average size)with plenty of knee and headroom space (if you are over 6'-2" you are in trouble - in this car or any other of its type). I have driven this car on long trips 800 miles plus and no back pain issues. It is, just a comfortable car. It grips the road like a 2-door sports coupe (reminds me of my Honda S2000). The only reason I do not give it a 10 on quality is because the battery is very small (looks like its from a mower and will last less than a year) and the a/c condensation started seeping into the passenger side. I had to remove the seat and carpet to get to the hose; that somehow had managed to get loose from its drainage point. All and all a great car. Hopefully the M series lives up to the G series."
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By Bill (TN) on Tuesday, July 23, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 100,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Looks great, runs fast, fun to drive"
Cons: "Cruise is a little different, but works ok"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"This is my second Infiniti. I had an I30 previously, and this G35S is my second. I drove the first one over 250,000 miles and already have 115,000 on this one. I get 22+ gas mileage, very fast and responsive, and is fun to drive. Nothing but praise for an awesome ride, and yes, I will own another one in about 150,000 miles!"
1 person out of 1 found this review helpful
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By Alex (TX) on Thursday, July 18, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 23,500
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Fast, Comfortable, Beautiful Design, Build Quality"
Cons: "Electronic Throttle Body Lags Slightly/Sometimes"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I've had this car for two years now and have to say this has been a great two years. The only modification I've had to do to it is to add new dual intakes (R2 CAI). When I added it, It made this car sound beautiful. The lack of a good sound for a "performance line" car should have been stock, but that's a small detail with a cheap fix. Other then that the car has a noticeable lag when trying to accelerate after breaking. I've added a grounding kit to the throttle body and that seemed to help. All else said, the car is fantastic and love it. It's a blast to drive and has a great feel!"
1 person out of 1 found this review helpful
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By GJ (TX) on Tuesday, July 16, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 73,000
overall rating 7 of 10rating detailsPros: "Good performance, handling and comfort."
Cons: "Nag, nag, nag."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 7
"If this car existed in the days before all the electronic toys it would be wonderful. Great power for a family sedan, above average handling, reasonable fuel economy for the performance, etc. Unfortunately it falls down when all the systems come into the equation. A cruise control that feels that it's necessary (literally) to downshift to increase speed two MPH when the "resume" switch is engaged. The car has enough warnings to cover almost any error in operation, no matter how slight, and in the process become a "nag." The nav system allows some inputs but restricts others when the car is in motion with no particular rhyme or reason. Minor interior trim complaint: the finish on the steering wheel and the interior door pulls is very soft and wears off to reveal shiny grey plastic beneath. I could pick a few other nits but that captures the general idea. If you can put up with a nagging and occasionally irritating car with above average performance and handling, this one may be for you."
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By Kimmy (CA) on Sunday, June 23, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 68,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "good looking, hassle free, convenient"
Cons: "doesn't wash itself LOL"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Best car I've ever owned! Absolutely maintenance free, tons of perks, great looking car. Love the ipod connection! Displays all songs on screen, just scroll and listen! Can even play songs off of youtube or Pandora! Lots of trunk space. Great maneuverability on the road or just around town. Any time I've ever been in for maintenance at the dealer (oil change, little things), they've always treated me wonderful and let me borrow a loaner so I never had to wait. Owning this car has been a 100 percent positive experience."
1 person out of 1 found this review helpful
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By J De An (NJ) on Tuesday, May 14, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 5,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Power, road handling, comfort"
Cons: "No daytime driving lights (added LEDs for safety)"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Owned Chevy (early) Honda Preludes, Toyota Celica GTX and now G37x. This has "best of" all prior vehicles put together and then some. Power is terrific when needed (merging into highway traffic, overtaking slower cars on two lane roads, etc. milage surprisingly good if not lead footed all the time). Solid drive but not at the expense of comfort (for front passengers--really not designed for more than two people; buy the sedan if more than two). All controls logically laid out, stereo system (Bose)true quality; radio functions intuitive unlike my husband's new Camry--that is way too complex."
7 people out of 7 found this review helpful
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