Infiniti G Coupe (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 16 December 2010
Infiniti is the upmarket brand of Nissan - in a similar way that Toyota has Lexus - and the G Coupe is the most sports-focussed model in the range. It's designed to be a high-quality alternative to models such as the Audi A5 and BMW 3-Series Coupe with supreme build quality and top-class refinement. It certainly feels like a luxury car on the move with superb refinement while it's also enjoyable to drive with impressive handling. The fact that Infiniti is quite unknown means the G Coupe is a rare sight on the road and attracts attention, although the styling isn't particularly daring or distinctive. The biggest drawback is the limited engine line-up - there's currently only one petrol - a 3.7-litre V6 which is thirsty. The interior also lacks the style and sophistication of alternatives, while the rear seats are cramped. However, Infiniti dealers, although few and far between, do offer the highest levels of customer service.
3.5 out of 5

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3.5 out of 5

Performance

Only one engine is available in the Infiniti G Coupe but luckily it's a real gem. The 3.7-litre V6 is also used in the Nissan 370Z and in the Infiniti produces 320bhp giving it a 0-62mph time of just 5.8 seconds (5.9 seconds with the optional seven-speed automatic). The high-revving engine sounds great on start-up with a deep rumble, yet is still incredibly smooth and refined, even when pushed. That's good news as power peaks high up the rev range, so it does need to be worked hard to get the best performance out of it. But there's still plenty of go at a more sedate pace and the Infiniti gains speed effortlessly. The standard gearbox is a six-speed manual while a seven-speed automatic is available as an optional extra - and most people choose it. But as you'd expect, this engine is far from economical and returns an average of 27mpg while high CO2 emissions mean annual road tax is expensive.

3.5 out of 5

Handling

The rear-wheel drive G Coupe has its engine in the front, which means it's well-balanced and agile, especially noticeable on twisting routes. There are impressive amounts of front end grip and the steering is well-weighted with plenty of feel, so tackling fast corners is enjoyable. With considerable power from the 3.7-litre engine, the rear can feel a little lively in the wet, but all cars come with stability control which keeps things in line. The top-of-the-range G37S comes with a system called 4-Wheel Active Steer - something that's unique on a rear-wheel drive car. It adjusts the rear suspension so that the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front, boosting stability and increasing agility when cornering.