2010 Infiniti G37 Coupe Journey
Base Price: $37,500
Price as Tested: $47,035
This week, we're driving the 2010 Infiniti G37 Coupe, with Journey model designation and a host of impressive passenger amenities and performance enrichments. As the "luxury brand" of parent Nissan, G37 Coupe is a sport coupe that delivers on all claims, and rates as one of the better handling 5-passenger coupes out there.
For 2010, G37 receives some exterior and interior tweaking, ala front-end treatment and interior instrumentation, respectively. Mechanically, the 2010 is similar to 2009, with a 330 horsepower V6 under the hood. The base "no option" G37 costs $36,050 and comes well equipped with a bevy of standard features. If we listed all of the features, I would exceed my "Test Drive" space limitations so let's just agree up front it comes loaded.
The Journey model adds dual-zone climate control, a 6-CD stereo, enhanced Xenon headlamps and a power front passenger seat. Two other models are available, a sport model and a hardtop convertible. Additionally, AWD is available on all but the convertible.
Our tester came with options like a Premium package for $2,900 which adds a power moon roof, upgraded Bose 2.0-gig Music Box audio, rear sonar backup system, seat memory with lumbar assist and power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel.
An $1,800 Navigation package features a touch screen navigation system with DVD, streaming audio via Bluetooth, 3D graphics with Birdview, XM Satellite with real time traffic and weather, and a huge 9.3 gig Music Box upgrade. A Technology package, which costs $1,550, includes adaptive cruise control, brake assist with brake preview and enhanced headlights and climate control. Other options include a $1,950 Sport package featuring 19-inch wheels and tires (versus standard 18-inchers), interior upgrades, spoiler, sport brakes, sport tuned suspension and paddle shifters. The final tester option cost $370 for R-Spec high friction brake pads.
The paddle shifters are useless if you happen to be taking some quick road course type turns and want to downshift or up shift, as they are not attached to the steering wheel. This is not uncommon, as many other brands promote similarly attached paddle shifters. Perhaps taking some pointers from Chevy's Corvette when it comes to paddle shifters is in order.
Under the hood sits the aforementioned 3.7-liter V6 that dishes up 330 horses and 270 lb. ft. of torque. An impressive 7-speed automatic transmission allows not only excellent highway fuel economy, it matches the RPMs on downshifts thanks to a sequential sport mode (but be prepared as it will push you forward a bit). Of note, and not surprising, is that all G37s are rear drive except, of course, the AWD model.
In testing, we took the G37 through a timed eighth-mile in 9.17 at 75.55 mph, with 0-60 arriving in about 6.2 seconds. The EPA numbers are very good for a 330-horsepower car, with 19 city and 27 highway the numbers. G37 safety is excellent as all G37's come with traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, front air bags, side curtain airbags for both rows and active head restraints for the front seats.
Inside, rear passengers will be snug at best, unless it's the kids. As for front passengers, the opposite is the norm as comfortable yet firm seating and all the amenities beckon your presence. The coupe's trunk only offers 7.4 cubic feet, but thankfully the rear seats fold if you need more space. Other important numbers include a wheelbase of 112.2 inches, 3,636 lb. curb weight, and a 20-gallon premium grade fuel tank.
In summary, Infiniti puts out great cars and SUVs, and the G37 Coupe (also available in sedan format) is a prime example. Furthermore, even though expensive from most wage earners prospective, this $47,000 "super car" is well within grasp of many people, especially the base model at $36K.
Yes, in my book, the G37 is an affordable super car. You owe it to yourself to test drive a G37 if shopping in the personal sports luxury segment.
Likes: Performance, handling, looks, brakes, build quality, fuel mileage.
Dislikes: Shift paddles not attached to steering wheel, downshifts a bit jerky in sequential mode, rear seat room, cargo space.
(Greg Zyla is a syndicated auto columnist)
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