2008 Infiniti G37 Preview

2008 Infiniti G37 Preview – 2007 New York Auto Show: Legend has it that cows came up with the game first, knocking one another off farm land mounds and hills in order to get premium grazing ground or just, who knows – amuse themselves. Infiniti, while not like a cow in any way outside of the leather on its seats, is also playing king of the hill, or will be later this summer when the all-new 2008 G37 rolls onto dealer lots: trying, and perhaps succeeding, in knocking BMW’s 335i coupe from the luxury fun-car grazing patch with more power from a new 3.7-liter engine and a restyled body.

Why it Matters

Those with money to spend and a desire to drive something sporting with a modern style, will appreciate the 2008 Infiniti G37 in much the same way thousands of happy drivers liked the G35: It's a difference maker on the road, a special car for people who have earned the privilege of driving something slightly impractical and supremely fun. More power, a new style and strategic upgrades throughout make the G37 - so named for its engine - something worth waiting for, even if you won’t have to wait until later this summer.

What's Under the Hood

To be "G," this coupe has to prove it on the track. On paper, this new G37 takes Infiniti to the next level with more power and what may be improved handling. That's the hope, at least, given the mechanicals Infiniti has put together for the G37: A 3.7-liter V6 engine that's expected to make 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque (up from 275 hp), mated to a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. Infiniti says that it also lowers emissions and improves fuel economy, and will make you a cup of coffee, too! Among other changes, ride and handling is improved, with a chassis that has been stiffened approximately 36 percent. The G37 is offered with a new 18-inch wheel/tire package as standard equipment.

What it Looks Like

More refinement seems to be the buzzword around the new Infiniti G37, with highlights including more flowing fender curves, a smoother hood, expressive front fascia and a strong side character line with side sills that integrate into large wheel wells. In back, the G37 features broad rear fenders and refined rear bumper, integrated available RearView Monitor camera and large dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers. An available rear spoiler finishes off the sporty - but sophisticated - look

What's Inside

Originally criticized for its lack of interior refinement and features, the G has improved over the years, winding up at the G37, and an answer to critics with a cockpit designed to serve up controls to drivers and comfort - relatively speaking - to all occupants. Features include a full-length center console with a leather and aluminum-clad shifter, aluminum interior trim and electroluminescent instrumentation in white and violet.

What Infiniti Says

"The new G35 Sedan, which has been named to both Car and Driver's '10 Best Cars' and Automobile magazine's 'All-Stars' list, has set the stage for the introduction of the new G37 Coupe," said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti Division. "The new coupe builds on the styling, performance and interior enhancements of the G Sedan, adding the dynamic style, sporty atmosphere and expressive driving character expected of a class-leading luxury sport coupe. The line starts here."

What We Think

This is a sporting luxury car regular people desire because it's rewarding in terms of the experience and the statement it makes. It says, to wit: Yes, I can afford to buy something slightly impractical, something fun, and something that spells success. With this new and more powerful update, the 2008 Infiniti G37 follows through on that promise with what we hope is a strong whoosh, and a pleasing exhaust note.

Photos courtesy of Infiniti, Brian Chee