The Snow Belt Gets a New Reason to Buy Japanese
Infiniti's G35 single-handedly transformed the struggling brand when it debuted over a year ago, with its FM (front-midship) architecture now spawning into a broad range of Infiniti models including the gorgeous new G35 Coupe, plus the stunning FX35 and FX45 SUV.
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| Infiniti's successful G35 sedan is borrowing the stunning FX35 and FX45 SUV's all-wheel drive system. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Borrowing from the sporty utility vehicle, Infiniti will heighten the sedan's desirability more so with the option of all-wheel drive for the 2004 model year. The advanced AWD system sports an active torque distribution management system that includes an electro-magnetic clutch, sans center differential.
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| Nissan will be in the enviable position of being the only premium Japanese marque with an AWD sedan. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The system is rear-wheel biased, meaning it should feel closer to a rear-wheel drive car than a front-wheel drive car, optimal for driving dynamics. During slippery conditions up to half the pulling power will be directed to the front wheels, maximizing grip.
The G35 will be the only premium Japanese marque to offer an AWD sedan, with Lexus and Acura choosing either front or rear-wheel drive systems. This puts the Nissan division in an enviable position, fully capable of fighting it out with the Audi A4 quattro, BMW 3-Series Xi, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4Matic, Volkswagen Passat 4Motion and Volvo S60 2.5T AWD, with a more enticing 260-hp V6 engine and no doubt a more affordable price than any of the aforementioned V6 powered rivals - not yet announced.