2003 Infiniti I35

There are so many new Infiniti models that it's possible to overlook the I35 sedan, although it was significantly redone for the last model year.

Another reason some buyers of "near-luxury'' (around $30,000) cars bypass the mid-size I35 is because its conservative styling has no sporty touches or eccentricities that make it stand out. Not that such a near-luxury Japanese sedan is supposed to turn heads. Few do.

The revamped 2002 I35 got such things as different front/rear styling, modified interior and a larger new 3.5-liter, 255-horsepower V-6--along with stronger brakes and a revised suspension.

With all the 2002 alterations, the current I35 has minor changes. They include availability of ($400 plus monthly fee) satellite radio and interior refinements such as expanded wood-tone trim on the center console and addition of an embroidered Infiniti logo on the front seats.

Infiniti is Nissan's upscale division, and Infiniti owners thus can enjoy more upscale treatment at dealerships than Nissan owners.

The front-drive I35 comes only as a $28,950 model with several option packages, including a $1,800 Sport package that has items such as an anti-skid system, sport suspension, wider tires and alloy wheels.

The I35 has sure handling, but is designed more for luxury than sportiness. That's the case even when the car has the Sport package's firmer suspension and lower-profile 50-series tires, which don't absorb as much road shock as the standard, higher-sidewall tires.

The I35 generally has a soft-edged, but not sloppy, feel expected by many near-luxury car buyers, who don't want a harder-edged sports sedan. For instance, stopping distances are commendably short, but the brake pedal has a softer feel than found in many sports sedans.

There also are a $1,500 Sunroof and Sunshade package with a power sunroof and power rear sunshade and a $700 Cold Weather package with heated front and rear seats, heated leather wrapped steering wheel and heated mirrors.

A $2,000 Navigation package is offered for those who fear getting lost or want to make the fastest time between points A and B.

But here's a rub: The Sport, Cold Weather and Navigation packages require the Sunroof and Sunshade package.

Stand-alone options include a $500 rear spoiler, $1,600 chrome alloy wheels and $500 side sill extensions.

Despite the extras, the I35 is packed with comfort and convenience equipment. It includes leather power seats, automatic climate and cruise controls, remote keyless entry and AM/FM/cassette sound system with seven speakers and an in-dash six-disc CD changer.

Safety items include front side air bags that provide both chest and head protection, a traction control system and anti-lock brakes with a brake-assist feature for surer panic stops.

The 255-horsepower V-6 provides strong, smooth thrust and loafs at highway speeds. It works with a four-speed automatic transmission that delivers seamless upshifts and quick downshifts. It also offers an easily used manual shift feature.

Fuel economy is an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway, which is decent for a 3,306-pound car that does 0-60 mph in just seven seconds.

Large doors open wide to allow easy entry to the quiet interior. It has upscale materials and mid-size to large dashboard controls, although steering wheel controls are crowded. There's a classy dashboard analog clock. And the console has large dual cupholders with a cover that swings open toward the passenger to allow a driver easier access to a beverage.

Gauges can be read quickly, although their lights reflect in the driver's side window at night. The supportive front seats could use longer bottom cushions, but the rear seat is especially roomy. Outside rearview mirrors are just the right size.

The large, usefully shaped trunk has a low, wide opening for easy loading. But its lid has manual hinges, which are found in economy cars. Rear seatbacks flip forward to allow more cargo room.

The I35 shouldn't be overlooked by near-luxury sedan buyers because it provides a lot for the money and is very easy to live with.


INFINITI I35
Price:
$28,950

Likes:
Fast. Nice handling. Smooth ride. Well equipped.

Dislikes:
Crowded steering wheel controls. Conservative styling.