Following an introductory year marked by outstanding sales and numerous media awards, the 2004 Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan lineup now includes the new all-wheel drive G35 sedan.
The AWD G35 Sedan features Infiniti's ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split), which utilizes an active torque distribution management system with an active center differential designed for smooth starts, better fuel economy and better traction and maneuverability on snowy roads than conventional all-wheel-drive systems and minimal compromise of rear-wheel-drive performance characteristics on dry roads.
Simply put, the AWD G35 will grip the road, regardless of the conditions, and never let you know it's there. Let the competition be forewarned.
Positioned to compete against current popular sport sedans such as the BMW 3-series, Lexus IS300 and Audi A4, I my opinion the G35 has quickly moved to the top of that list.
And with styling that takes full advantage of the vehicle's FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, the G35 features a long wheelbase (112.2 inches) and short front and rear overhangs Ð providing a large interior for its highly manageable overall length (186.2 inches).
The location of the G35's potent V6 behind the front axle allows the use of a low, aggressive hoodline, which flows into the sharply angled windshield and contributes to the G35's sporty, powerful silhouette.
The front fascia features an Infiniti-style, fine-quality horizontal crosspiece grille, low-postured front bumper and bold, vertically stacked headlight assembly with integrated fog lights and turn signals.
A wide front and rear track adds to the G35's overall handling stability and further enhances interior and trunk volume. We were very impressed with G35's level of performance, especially when pushed hard while cornering.
A 260-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 with 260 lb-ft of torque, derived from the VQ engine series, which has been recognized as one of the "Ten Best Engines" by Ward's Auto World magazine for nine consecutive years, comes standard on every G35 Sport Sedan, along with an advanced 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode or close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.
The engine includes a long list of advanced systems, including a continuously variable valve timing control system, a "noiseless" timing chain for silent operation, a structurally reinforced aluminum engine block and an electronically controlled "drive-by-wire" throttle system.
All G35s come with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), enhancing vehicle stability under a variety of driving conditions Ð similar to that offered in the Infiniti Q45 and M45. A high level of sporty handling is provided by an impressive 4-wheel independent multi-link suspension.
The G35's advanced braking system utilizes power-assisted 4-wheel vented disc anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), which distributes brake force depending on load condition (passengers and cargo) and Brake Assist, which senses hard or panic pedal application and helps provide maximum braking capacity.
Inside, the G35 is sporty and luxurious. But this is one of a few cars where I wasn't afforded quite enough space in the driver's seat. The seat is made to be supportive for high-spirited driving and the controls are actually mounted at the front top edge of the seat on the right hand side. (At least that's where they were when I moved my right thigh out of the way.)
The G35 is so much fun to drive I almost forgot about being short on thigh room in the driver's seat. Despite my seat woes, there is much to like inside the G35. A three-spoke steering wheel provides a firm grip and sporty feel and the instrument panel features Infiniti's fine vision electrofluorescent illumination system and signature analog clock.
For the enthusiast or those just wanting the benefits of all-wheel-drive traction, the AWD G35 is tough to beat.
2004 Infiniti G35 AWD sedan w/Leather
Engine: 3.5-liter (260 hp) V6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive Type: AWD
Fuel Economy: 17 city/24 highway
Base Price: $32,100
As Tested: $36,070 (includes $590 for destination)
Website: www.infiniti.com |
