The 2009 Infiniti G37 ranks 3 out of 17 Upscale Midsize Cars according to ranking of Auto Press. The ranking is based completely on 39 published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti G37, and analysis of reliability and safety data. The 2009 Infiniti G37 is a serious threat to the traditional favorite in the Upscale Midsize Car class – the BMW 3-Series. The Coupe version of the G37 hit showrooms last year, and was immediately hailed as one of the most spirited performers in a class full of great drivers’ cars.
For 2009, the G37 sedan arrives, and a convertible version makes its first appearance. Anyone considering a sport sedan should at least schedule a G37 test drive before buying something else. Edmunds writes, “It’ll still be priced competitively, of course…but value doesn’t enter the picture” for Edmunds. “Instead, we’re thinking about how stiff and composed our 2009 Infiniti G37 sedan’s chassis feels through the lumpy corners, and how much we like the torque and drama of the 3.7-liter V6. We’re enjoying the drive.”
The auto-press says the class-leading driving dynamics of the G37 Coupe translate well to the sedan version of the car. Edmunds reports that the upgrades from the G35 to the G37 “put a slightly nastier edge on what is already the rawest of the rear-drive, entry-level luxury sport sedans.” Both Coupe and Sedan models are available in a dizzying array of trims, including G37, G37 Journey, G37S Sport 6MT, and G37x AWD. Sport and Journey models come with a unique four-wheel active steering system that improves handling. The G37 Convertible comes in a single, rear-wheel drive trim.
Consumer Guide writes, “These Infiniti might lack the brand prestige of rivals from Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes, but their performance, space, and available all-wheel drive make them excellent alternatives. These virtues, teamed with prices that undercut those rivals, make G37 an excellent value.” The AutoWeek feels, “Lively and fun, giving way just enough when pushed to keep us interested, while maintaining that balance and comfort necessary to keep the car great to live with as a daily driver.”
All versions of the 2009 Infiniti G37 draw their power from a 3.7-liter V6 engine with variable valve timing that creates 330 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. That doesn’t sound like significantly more power than many competitors, but a number of reviewers have written that it feels like more. The EPA estimates that both Coupe and Sedan versions should get 18/26 mpg with the automatic transmission 17/25 with the manual. The car requires premium fuel.
“Not surprising, the acceleration times for the brawnier G37 S [sedan] are markedly improved over the less-powerful, five-speed G35 S Zero to 60 now takes only 5.0 sec, with the quarter-mile obliterated in just 13.5 at 105.3 mph. Compared with numbers from our long-term G35 S — 5.3 and 13.9 at 99.9, respectively — it’s evident the additional 22 hp and two cogs make an appreciable difference,” writes Motor Trend.
