2007 Infiniti G35 Sedan Preview

The new G35 may look a whole lot like the old car, but peel away the

Front and rear track are a part of the G's new chassis. (Photo: Infiniti Canada)

skin and there's a new chassis lurking underneath. OK, so it's not exactly rebuilt from the ground up, but it uses a modified version of the existing FM (front midship) platform similar to the one featured in the new Infiniti M. Aside from having a more rigid and advanced frame, the car features a wider track by 18 mm (0.7 in) in front and 23 mm (0.9 in) in back, for a more planted stance on the road. Other changes include a new speed-sensitive steering system for improved agility and cornering finesse. For those wanting even greater hold on the road, Infiniti's ATTESA ETS intelligent all-wheel drive system continues to be available on the G35x.

Even

New navigation system includes XM communication for traffic route avoidance, a different console layout, Burr Brown / Bose sound system with Compact Flash Reader and magnesium paddle shifters for automatic-equipped cars. (Photo: Infiniti Canada)

with a new exterior and interior, the pride and joy of the G35 - and for that matter the Nissan group as a whole - remains the 3.5-litre V6 engine. Now in its fourth generation, the VQ35DE has been rebuilt from the oil pan up to maximize power and efficiency while further abating noise, vibration and harshness. Around 80 percent of the engine is new, including the engine block and core components, all of which have been strengthened, giving the engine a centre of gravity that's 15 mm lower than before. Other internal improvements include the addition of variable valve timing for the exhaust, a higher 7,500 rpm redline, and an increase in compression ratio from 10.3:1 to 10.6:1.

External to the engine, but critical to the holistic upgrade is the engine's ability to breathe: changes here include a new twin ram-air intake that sports reduced airflow resistance by some 18 percent, and an improved muffler design that incorporates 25 percent less back-pressure than the previous model. Total output hasn't been released, but Infiniti claims the engine now produces in excess of 300 horsepower, while improving fuel consumption, reducing emissions and delivering more of its distinctive engine note. Not only does the new V6 reportedly give the G35 an advantage over its European rivals, it should be capable of edging out its Japanese competitor from Acura, and possibly even the mighty Lexus IS 350.

In a way, the 2007 Infiniti G35 is for Infiniti, what the IS is for

300+ horsepower VQ35DE engine ensures that this kind of behaviour is never more than a pedal romp away. (Photo: Infiniti Canada)

Lexus. Starting next year, Nissan is preparing to officially launch the Infiniti brand name outside of North America, in Europe and Asia. The new G35, with its more distinctive shape, now distinguishably different than any Japanese-market Nissan model, improved performance and accommodating size, should continue to provide an enticing alternative to staple offerings in North America, plus also ensure a stronger footing in its non-traditional, non-North American markets. Meanwhile, for those pondering a G35 Coupe with similar updates, Nissan hasn't mentioned anything about any upgrades to the slick, two-door model, however, it's replacement is bound to be on the way within a couple of months.

Preliminary Specifications:

• Price Range (estimated MSRP): $41,500 - $51,500 
  
• Body Type: 4-door sedan
  
• Layout: front engine, RWD (optional AWD)
  
• Engine (estimated): 300+hp, 280+ lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
  
• Transmission: 6-spd manual (opt. 5-spd auto w/paddleshift)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD, BA
  
• Seating Capacity: 5
  
• Warranty (mo/km): 48/100,000 comprehensive - 72/110,000 powertrain
  
• Competitors: Acura TL, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac CTS, Chrysler 300C, Lexus ES / IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Passat, Volvo S60
  
• Web Site: www.infiniti.ca