2008 Infiniti G35 in San Antonio, TX - $2,500

Infiniti introduced the second-generation G35 sedan to the American marketplace last year. Featuring a dramatic new exterior design and a refined interior with unique features, the G's new exterior continues the previous model's vibrant design theme with clean athletic styling. Key design elements include sculpted grille blades, iconic headlights and chrisp lines.

Enhancements for the 2008 model year include an available Sport Package for the G35x AWD model for the first time and a new 18-inch Tire and Wheel Package -- also for the G35x AWD sedan.

Available in four models: G35, G35 Journey, G35x AWD and G35 Sport 6MT, the Infiniti sedan is offered in rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. Power for the extensively redesigned Infiniti sedan is generated by the fourth-generation of the award winning VQ-Series 3.5L V6 prime mover. Significantly rethought, 80 percent of the VQ35 engine's major parts (except for bolts, O-rings and clips) was redesigned.

The engine block features ladder frame construction for greater rigidity and crank journal and pin diameters were increased. The block height increased by 8.4 millimeters to reduce piston side force and the engine center is now 15 millimeters lower, which also contributes to the G's improved dynamic performance.

Other engine enhancements include the addition of standard variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), a higher rev limit (now 7,500 rpm), a higher compression ratio (10.6:1) asymmetric piston skirts, twin knock sensors, improved coolant flow and new Iridium spark plugs.

Motion is transferred to the road through either a five-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. The automatic features Downshift Rev Matching and ASC (Adaptive Shift Control) that allows for quicker shifts in sporty driving situations.

At speed, the G35x all-wheel drive sedan feels glued to the road. Quiet, smooth and fluid, the G35 delivers a seamless stream of useable power immediately when the driver calls for it.

Last year the Infiniti sedan's FM (Front Mid-ship) platform was also significantly enhanced. Body stiffness increased by 36 percent, through the utilization of new structural pieces in the critical engine compartment and rear floor areas, and a 16 percent increase in the number of body spot welds.

Control hardware consists of a four-wheel independent design with lightweight aluminum components and front and rear stabilizer bars. The front suspension minimizes alignment changes through use of a single pivot point lower wishbone and a long upper link. The rear design separates the shock absorbers and springs, locating the shock absorber inline with the wheel center to help reduce suspension friction and reduce the wind-up motion of the axle on acceleration.

Inside the passenger cabin, the all-new interior design is refined, inviting and offers a new level of modern warmth and hospitality. Unique features such as the white-and-violet Fine Vision gauge illumination and high-touch, textured aluminum-alloy trim with "Washi" (traditional Japanese handmade paper) patterning are standard. The interior is designed to create harmony between its dedicated driver's cockpit and comfortable passenger space -- between modern technology and traditional Japanese design cues. The result is a "modern warmth" that is unique in the sport sedan segment.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 112.2; overall length: 187.0; width: 69.8; height: 57.2 (RWD), 57.8 (AWD)-- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 306 hp at 6,800 rpm and 268 lbs-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic or six-speed manual.

EPA fuel economy: 17 city/24 hwy. (G35, G35 Journey); 17 city/23 hwy. (G35x AWD); 17 city/25 hwy. (G35 Sport 6MT).

Cargo capacity: 13.5 cubic ft.

Parts content -- country of origin

Final assembly point: Tochigi, Japan.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, head curtain side-impact airbags, first aid kit, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, Bi-Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps, fog lights, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry w/SmartKey, remote control engine start, alarm system and tire pressure monitor. G35 Journey adds automatic headlamps. G35 Sport 6MT adds limited slip viscous rear axle.

Optional safety features include a navigation system, rearview monitor, garage door opener and adaptive front lighting system.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/60,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile.

Corrosion: 7-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 4-year/unlimited, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Infiniti G35 sedan starts from $31,600 for the base G35 up to $34,100 for the G35x AWD. Destination charges add $ 715.

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