What do you mean by out of state DMV don't report traffic ticket data back to you local DMV? I'm interest to know, because I got a out of state ticket. Since this is not a G comment, please reply back via email to ed.kwok@navy.mil. Thanks.
Thanks for the response Guys. I know that insurance in general in the NY TriState area is very high, but I was wondering if anyone compared insurance rates between the G35 Coupe and say the 350Z or BMW 3-series Coupe. I have AIG and they are typically low in price compared to other insurance company's They quoted me $1570 per year for the G35 and about $1270 for the 350Z or 325Ci. Just wanted to know if it is the same with other insurance company's.
For what it's worth, AIG tried to get me to switch from Geico last year. When I compared rates on a Honda S2000, AIG was 40% higher than Geico, in Washington DC. Perhaps they are more competitive in New York, but AIG is no bargain here in Geico's backyard.
Here is San Antonio, Gunn Nissan and Gunn Infinti are both saying they will be selling the 350Z and G35C at MSRP (no higher - no lower). I think it's funny how differently you get treated between the Nissan & Infiniti Dealerships. Infiniti greets you at the doors, takes you to the sales board (in the back)to show incoming cars. The customer service alone has me leaning toward buying the G35 coupe. Besides the fact that it is one nice ride. The Infiniti salesman told me to wait for the G35c, it's well worth it. He sent me some photos of the two cars side by side. I must say, the G35C is really going to stand out.
I was just at a local Infiniti dealer in San Diego and was told that only 2% of the G35 coupes were to be built with manual transmissions. Anyone on this board heard differently?
But I was in the Honda dealership recently with my S2000 for an oil change and they asked me if I would like to drive anything while I waited. I replied an Accord Coupe 6-speed. No can do. Only 1 such vehicle is to be allocated to each dealership for the entire 2003 model year. They haven't received theirs yet. That would work out to roughly 1/2 of 1% of the 200+ coupes Sheehy Honda sells per year. What's up with that?
Infiniti seems to be confused about committing to sport minded drivers. The M45 should have a six speed option to better compete with a 540i, but doesn't. The G35 should to compete with the 330i, but didn't for the first year+. The former I30t lost it's manual transmission a few years ago. I want to give Infiniti credit for a more exciting drive than Lexus, but they aren't helping their own case.
I have heard the same rumor about the Accord Coupe 6-speed from a Honda salesman on another web forum. It seems that production of that model is going to be very limited, probably to push buyers toward the CL-S 6-speed.
My opinion is that Infiniti figures Nissan 350Z will get the 6 speed customers and they are trying to cater to the A/T customers. I believe the 350Z will be mostly 6 speeds.
A few weeks ago, a dealer in San Diego told me that Infiniti don't have enough manual trans to in general. Since the Z came out first, most of the manual trans were sold with the Z. You go figure.... I think Infiniti do that for a reason, that is to bump up the demand. Think about it, a 6 speed will be available for the G35 Sedan in early 03. All three car will be stock with the same manual trans. Otherwise, Infiniti is doing a bad job with supply and demand. The real question here is.... Will the Coupe have a little more room to nego. after the new year? I know one don't have to put out MSRP to own a sedan now. The sedan price should drop a little more once the coupe hit the market. I am a cash buyer and waiting for the coupe to be release next week, and then will evaluate the situation. Keeping in mind, the convertiable Z is do to be release early part of 03.
I just want to get out of Philly!! MY family lives in SD and I want to move west with a new G35 Coupe in tow. I would prefer to purchase the G35 in California vs Pennsylvania. The new G35 is a California car. The SUV is an east coast vehicle. I now face the dilemma of having to find a garage to keep the new car, winter tires, underbody corrosion protection, etc. These are just some of the problems eastcoasters must face this winter.
Is it true that registration is very expensive in CA, but overall auto insurance is much less compared to other parts of the country?
Anyway, I will know a lot more about the G35 Coupe next week after a brief test drive. I explained to my salesman to deliver the car in March when the weather starts to cooperate. Who knows? It can snow in MArch and April!
When was the last time it snowed in San Diego, California?
was just at a local Infiniti dealer in San Diego and was told that only 2% of the G35 coupes were to be built with manual transmissions. Anyone on this board heard differently?
I like Discover Infiniti usually, but every now and then a salesguy will say something like this...just nod and walk away. Infiniti did their homework on the G35...they have BMW as the entry level sport lux coupe paradigm. Do only 2% of the 3 ci buyers opt for the manual? Can't imagine Infiniti would be that shortsighted.
BTW, I read a piece from a current G35s owner who went to a focus group at the invite of Infiniti. He and other owners mentioned their likes and dislikes about the cars, took out modified versions of the G and gave quite a bit of feedback. Fast forward a bit and the 2003.5s arrive with some new touches. Infiniti is listening and I think they desperately want to be a contender for the first time on over 10 years.
Lived in SD for 11 years so far, no snow. Though we get frost every once in awhile.
If they ran out of 6-sp on the G35C. It would be a deal breaker. I would have to go with the 350Z. It may be best to sit back and wait for the next model year.
Infiniti in San Diego got a shipment of seven yesterday afternoon and they sold all but two as of this afternoon. Very nice looking and the drive is much sportier (stiffer with very little body roll on hard corners) than the G35 sedan. Overall a very nice car. Will wait for the 6 speed manual to really put it thru the test...
I just came from the dealer and test drove the new g35 cp. Now I'm ready to buy. But first I want to know if anybody has gotten a good deal on one or any deal at all? they have one arriving in Dec. that's equipped the way I want, color and all. Any feedback would be appreciated thanks
Any discussion on G35 coupes on E-Bay. I have seen several auctions for deposits on coupes coming in. I have a deposit on one which I would give up for 2-3 thousand $$ profit, but don't want to get messed up with the dealer. I really do want the car but couldn't turn down a 2 to 300% profit on my $1,000 deposit. I saw some auctions that said the dealer had okayed it. Any salesmen out there with anything to say about this. I saw a line on the Infiniti site a couple of weeks ago warning people that the dealer had no responsiblilty to sell the car to anyone other than the person who put up the deposit.
I don't think you'll be able to get any deals for a while, unless you are willing to wait until next year or two from now. I put a deposit in for a loaded 6MT and they only quoted me "market" value when the car arrives. Obviously, they want to get as much as possible for this car. I will pay MSRP but not a penny more. I want the car but I don't need it. I called another dealer in the Boston area and they told me that they can order me a car for MSRP. I suggest that "carnut86" go to a few dealers because their prices can vary greatly. Also, this is bad timing for new cars since few people are going to be spending money on big ticket items around the holiday season, especially with our economy still doing this poorly.
The G35 got lots of hype, prior the car release. Yes, it's a nice car, but this still don't mean we the buyer has to pay MSRP. There is already a big markup at MSRP. I agreed, given the economy is not doing so good and the holidays season are near. I would think not too many will be in the market during these months. So, what will the dealer do, are they still standing firm on MSRP? Wait and see, cash buyer should be able to get it under MSRP during these months. After all monies talks.
cash buyer should be able to get it under MSRP during these months
Um, a car financed through Nissan's credit company is worth far more to the dealership than cash. Cash is pretty worthless when compared to a the same amount, plus a cut of the financing. People with really bad credit can sometimes get a dealership 2 or 3% of say a 9% finance rate. That's huge.
By cash buyer, I mean I have the funding in hand to make the purchase. The big picture and the bottom line here is cash for the saleman to make. Isn't that after someone sign on the dotted line for the sale, the saleman and the dealer get a piece of the sale. Don't get me wrong, I believe these folks need to make money, but not at the rate $3k+. The theory of "supply and demand" works both ways. I got the supply, $$ to purchase at anytime and the demand, I can purchase from just any dealer at the MSRP. I strongly believe $1k above invoice prize is more than enough, given most car dealer are more than happy to get $500 above their invoice.
$1000 over invoice is not enough for a G35 coupe today. The car just came out, it is hot and supply is low since production is not fully ramped up. In a matter of months, production will increase and the initial novelty of the car will wear off. It remains to be seen if it will be just a few months or many months. Today, you can forget about $1000 over invoice.
Infiniti dealer in Libertyville (far north suburb of Chicago) received 8 G35 Coupes Friday 11/1.
Two six speeds (both pre-ordered & pre-sold, not available for test drives) and the rest automatics with varying levels of equipment.
I took a leather w/sport package for a test drive. I'm very impressed with the car. Even with the 18" tires the ride was fine over rough surfaces (railroad tracks I could hear but couldn't feel through the seat.) Seat bolsters very nice (although I wonder about how snug things will be once winter weather and clothing arrives) and seats very comfortable. That back seat however is another issue. Thank God I'm never going to ride back there! Anyone over 5'10 isn't going to be happy.
Straight line acceleration was very nice, not neck snapping by any means but very smooth and powerfull. The cornering was very impressive up to and through 80 mph (that's as fast as I wanted to go in a relatively congested area). Brakes almost scary how fast they bring the car down from speed with no extra effort. Zero to 80mph to Zero was absolutely without any effort and very quick. Interior appointments are OK, nothing great, and not a detriment either IMHO.
I was able to drive a culdesac (in a kind of skid pad manuevuer) but couldn't get the tail of the car to start to let loose at all. Something (the limited slip differential?) kept me from getting the car "loose".
They are selling them at MSRP and have a couple available yet. One Red / Black interior in the show room loaded with every option including Nav was about $37.4. It's looks great in the red and the Black and the dark silver. I didn't care for the light silver.
Then I drove 65 miles home to Milwaukee and visited the Infiniti dealer there last night. One coupe for test drives, none for sale, and no one had any clue about the car, features, etc. What a difference 65 miles makes. Also makes me reconsider actually buying one based on the local dealer experience.
thanks for the help. I think I'm gonna let this one go and wait until March 03 and and check a couple more dealers in the meantime. maybe by then the dealer will be ready to make some deals. Plus the winter roads in philly are the worst. Like you said. I want the car but I don't need the car.
The dealer was too busy to come along for the test ride but did encourage me to give it a real test. After all, it's supposed to be a sports car with the addition of a luxury feel. It certainly felt that way to me.
Finalized it. I'm getting one. May be next Christmas but it's all mine buddy. The "stance" of that car is awesome. Gonna give em a year to find and debug anything wrong with it and then I'm gonna be Mr. Gee.
I was REALLY expecting to love this car but I ended up passing. The dealer was located in the Scranton area of Pennsylvania and was able to take my friend and I on an extended test drive. First thing I noticed was the somewhat cheap interior. The headliner is similar to cars selling ten thousand less. The A pillars were not sturdy and did not evoke any type of quality. About an hour before, I was at an Audi dealer and sat in a new A4. THAT should be the benchmark for an interior! THAT car was 30,000 (had the 1.8 t) quattro, etc and was so much better in interior quality. I didn't like where Nissan decided to place the power seat switches either. Why not copy a design used by Mercedes and others and put the switches on the door towards the front? The car I test drove had 18" wheels and I found the ride to be VERY harsh over rough surfaces. So much so that I have a feeling the dealer did NOT have the proper air pressure in the tires. The engine had a VERY nice sound to it but for a luxury sport coupe I felt the exhaust and engine noise was TOO high. Though acceleration was brisk, it didn't feel like 280 horsepower. I was driving on a highway at 70-75 and WAY too much road noise and wind noise entered the cabin. I was very surprised! Overall I was totally unimpressed. Dealers are asking list price. This particular dealer had to gall to add on paint protecant for $695! The out the door price was ~38k. For a few bucks more, I'd get a BMW 330ic and get a more refined engine (yes I felt the engine sounded unrefined compared to the BMW), worlds better interior and a resale value after 3 yrs MUCH greater than the G35. Sorry Infiniti/Nissan you DEFINITELY missed the mark.
My wife and I went to the only Infiniti dealer in the state today to look at/drive the sedan and the coupe. I liked the sedan a lot, both looks and the way it felt, but they didn't have one in the color I wanted (red) with all the equipment I wanted (premium package, nav system, etc.). Anyway, I was just about to order or see if they could locate what I wanted in the sedan, which I would have been able to buy for $200 below invoice, as a participant in the VPP program--sweetheart deal our former university president got b/c of the Nissan plant locating in the state. Anyway, a truck pulls up with a load of cars, only one of which was meant for this dealership. Care to guess what it was? A red coupe with everything on it. Now I knew I couldn't get the coupe on the VPP program, so--to make a long story short--I bought it for MSRP. Tell me I'm nuts, but it was just too much of a coincidence that the very car I wanted should happen to fall off a truck while I'm standing there. Surely that was a sign.
I did drive a coupe, by the way, but not the one I bought. It's just a totally different experience than the sedan. Turned out it was too late to actually take delivery of the coupe this evening, so they're going to drive it up Monday and drive back my trade-in--a '99 VW Passat GLX, which has been a great car but nothing like the G35, that's for sure. Will write again when I've had more experience driving the coupe.
Well, I've been reading this group for over two months, (wanna thank all of you for your input) and I really, really wanted to get a G35 coupe. I'm 6'2" with most of my height from the butt up, and the other car I was looking at was a CLK. I've tried to sit in the BMW 3series, but don't fit very well. The new CLK fits well. Anyhoo, onto my test drive.... Again, I really, really loved the look of this car, and was excited to get a chance to drive it at Grubbs here in Dallas, TX region. First thing I did was pop the trunk...I frowned. How the heck was I gonna fit my driver in this one?? And all my other junk to go with it!?!? Next thing I got in the car, my head found some room....in the sunroof. I tried to fiddle with the power seats, (which make no sense which direction they are going), and then couldn't figure out how to lean back the seat so that I would fit. So the salesman says, "you gotta use the plastic lever to the left of ya." (Hank Hill voice). Yeah, I didn't get why there was a plastic thingie, with the electric thingie too... The interior looked as good as my current Honda Civic, 1999. (love that car, as i bought it while i was in school...it has sentimental value...but i digress) I was not very impressed with the interior. I always thought that you guys were exaggerating about the interior, but nope...y'all right on the dot. The acceleration was great, but I echo the comments by djasonw, it sure doesn't feel like a 280hp, and the transmission wasn't as smooth as I would have liked it. This car was a G35 Premium, no Aero with Navi..so I assumed it had 18" wheels..man...what a bumpy ride....LOUD AND BUMPY! The engine was also noisy, and the wifey (who was making faces to me in the rearview mirror) told me later there was a "whiney" sound coming from the back, and she described the "turn signal" (yeah, some of us here in Texas use them...of course, we're Canadian), as manic...click-click-click 10 millions clicks a minute. (she's in a doctoral program for psychology). Sorry to write an essay, but to summarize, very disappointed...I really wanted to like this car cuz it would've saved me about $10k over the CLK. Teaches me a lesson (and to all of you too) that never make a decision on a car unless you test drive it first. The G35C is a great lookin' car...if it was your buddy's.
Hello everyone and I hope you are having a great day.
I returned to my car after shopping at the local supermarket to see a pearl white new G35 sport coupe parked next to me.
The design really does not have a bad angle. It looks elegant to my eye from the back, front or side and more expensive than it is.
The owner returned to the coupe while I was admiring it and informed me that the car has won the Motor Trend Car of the year. Nissan is doing a great job putting the passion back in its cars.
Now I have to test drive the Z and the G35 Coupe to decide if I want to buy. I did test drive the G35 sedan and agree with previous posters that the engine did not feel like the rated horsepower of 260.
Given your preferences, you might look at a Lexus, assuming you drove the 1.8T and felt it performed adequately. Yeah, Audi sets the standard for interiors and they perform pretty well. The cost of ownership goes up due to costs following the warranty and, during warranty, time lost at the dealers.
Nissan is on an entirely different mission here. You're looking for a luxury car.
Yes, it's true I am looking for a luxury sport coupe. I imagined that the Infiniti version of the Nissan 350Z would be a highly refined version. I guess I expected too much. If I have to spend 38k on a vehicle, it better have an interior that is better than a Nissan Sentra. There is more to a car than a pretty shape.
Even though I like the G35C I'm actually glad to see some people criticizing the car after a test drive. The coupe, especially with the 6spd, is a very different car from the sedan and wasn't meant to appeal to everyone. If you can't appreciate the high performance 18" wheel and tire combo and Brembo brakes, then this car wasn't made for you. Personally I find the G35C much more intriguing than a true luxury sports coupe like the MB CLK320. It may not have anywhere near the luxury/refinement levels of the CLK, but let's face it, the G35C should easily outrun the CLK in terms of acceleration and handling. Too bad Nissan decided not to just badge the G35C as a Nissan 350Z 2+2, lower the price by a few thousand, and get rid of all luxury pretenses.
Went and test drove one two days ago. Outside it looks very nice. The inside is a mixed bag. Like the dash cluster and center dash display. Seats are ok, need to get premium package for 4-way power passenger seat. The back seats are only good if your 5'9" or shorter any taller and your going to have to put your head off to one side. Rear cup holders way to small. Trunk is to small also.
On the performance side: The car stops very well and with good manners. I personally didn't find the ride that stiff. The exhaust tone is a bit loud under 3/4-WOT to me for a "luxury" coupe. Car shifts very smooth (auto trans). Acceleration has me kind of miffed, the car has 280hp and 270lbs of torque but doesn't feel like it. In magazine tests that I have seen it turns decent numbers in 0-60 and 1/4 mile, but the car doesn't feel like it is putting out that much power. Leaves me wondering what the rear gear ratio is .20?
Price is the other factor. To get the car with what I want on it, leather, sunroof, auto trans, etc., the trim level I would need to get is the leather version with the premium package. This would put the car at almost $35k and for that much there are many other cars I would have to very seriously consider buying over this one (new or used).
Wow, can't believe people are complaining about the coupe's intoxicating engine and exhaust noise. And the ride is harsh?! Let's just agree people have different taste in cars. If you're looking for a plush interior + soft and quiet ride, then don't bother with the G35 coupe.
djasonw, Nissan/Infiniti didn't miss the mark. Their cars are attracting plenty of young enthusiasts to their camp. G35 coupe is a pure sports car, not a luxury coupe. Infiniti isn't interested in attracting the aging MB and Lexus clients, and they should receive a medal for that.
Price is the other factor. To get the car with what I want on it, leather, sunroof, auto trans, etc., the trim level I would need to get is the leather version with the premium package. This would put the car at almost $35k and for that much there are many other cars I would have to very seriously consider buying over this one (new or used).
There are? Maybe a used 330ci, but that's about it.
"Their cars are attracting plenty of young enthusiasts to their camp"
Shucks neo, I'm 59. I don't really think it's just a matter of age. I think it's attractive to some people BECAUSE it's a Nissan, or rather, it's NOT a BMW, Lexus, MB, or other vehicle with its assorted image "issues." Now, I don't think of myself as a snob, but I'd really rather not be seen in one of those cars.
Now, I agree with you when it comes time to buy the car -- then you can't be looking for a soft cushion. Nissan's designers carefully and wisely designed out the "cruise" quotient both in the Z and the Gc.
There will be lots of people who will still come in to look because there are lots of cars on the market that look sporting but, inside, are the same old slushmobile.
Now, I haven't driven one yet, but I have had a seat in one. And as a veteran of Civics, Ramblers and Pintos when I was young, this is far from "cheap." The word 'Spartan' would be more accurate, especially when compared with the Lexus, Audi, or Q ... a quality I actually admire, even in my sunset years.
This was explained to me some years ago in a different Edmunds board as I posted regarding why I'd never own a BMW, owing to the "Yuppie Scum" image. I've since reconsidered and may well be driving a BMW in the next decade if the car I own now doesn't evolve appropriately for me in the next few years. I want 250+ hp, good handling and a manual transmission, which goes a long way towards explaining why I follow this board. Anyway, the poster was articulate and polite, and was able to appreciate the point of my posts, as I am yours.
Where I post regularly (not here), it's been recommended that if I'm not supportive of (fill in the blank), then I should have bought a WRX, since it's cheap and really quick. They're probably right, but it wasn't available at the time, besides which, there are other "issues."
It's interesting to watch people get all edgy and weird when they're called on their choices, relative to whether they bought their vehicle because of its capability or its image.
Had a chance to drive an automatic with premium package and sport wheels today here in alabama. I went thinking it would be in the showroom and would just get to look at it. But it was parked outside and the salesman got the keys, and the next thing I know I'm pulling out of the dealership.
First, I'm 6', and even with the seat down all the way, it seemed that I grazed the roof now and then. I didn't fool with the seat all that much so maybe this could be corrected. Otherwise the seat felt pretty good.
The test drive was short but I can say there is a noticeable difference in power compared to the sedan. Effortless acceleration is how I would best describe it, and I was probably following break-in guidelines and not abusing it. Very impressed.
Took it into a couple cul de sacs that I had driven the sedan in, and found I was able to go faster without the VDC(?) engaging. It felt solid.
Took it out on the highway briefly and made very short work of the onramp while leaving all oncoming traffic behind. Plenty of power going from 65-80. Face hurt from grinning.
The surprising thing to me was the availability. Salesman showed me what they had coming in and there was a nice mix of autos, and about 3 6 speeds coming in as soon as this week. Contrast that with the Z around here where you can't get a test drive and preorder demand won't be satisfied for a couple months yet.
All in all, I think I have found my next car. I am holding out for a 6 speed, but after driving the auto, I may not bother with it. This is coming from someone who was looking to get an A4 V6 6speed, love that car, but it just feels gutless after driving the Gs. Just my .02 .
Well, I have been following this board for quit sometime now, and I have done research on everything I can with the G35Coupe (actually, I think I know more about the car then an average saleman). My final assessment on this car is, anyone paid MSRP is paying too much! Sure the car performce well, but the interior need more work. Infiniti need to put more effort in the interior to attract more buyer, that is if they wants to separate from the Nissan camp(I think right now Nissan has a better resale value). The 350Z interior looks better than the G35c and the Ultuma or Maxima interior looks better than the G35 sedan. With that said, how can Infiniti market a luxury car with interior looks average comparing to the Nissan interior. You don't need the wood looks to make the car looks classy. At least use real metal for the center console if you wants a metal looks. Why use painted metal plastic, after all Infiniti brand suppose to repersent luxury not cheap. I have change my mind to purchase a G35 coupe at the MSRP prize, because of the interior. Actually, I am hoping Infiniti would change the interior design in the mid year release. If that happen, I wouldn't mind paying MSRP for a better interior looks. Like I said, the exterior and performance is find.
If I want a Nissan interior looks, I would purchase a Nissan not a Infiniti.
I just returned from the dealership and was able to test drive an auto with premium package (no 6-speeds were available). My neck is still hurting from how fast this car is! Maybe I didn't have the seat adjusted quite right, but this car takes off from 3000-redline. Its amazing. The handling was also exceptional. I could easily take turns at 3-4 times the posted speed limit. The salesman even told me to not use the brakes entering a turn. It was a good time. I'm not completely sold yet though... the trunk is tiny (maybe 2 suitcases will fit), the price is not a bargain at MSRP, and I'm not sure if I want to give up driving a 4 door. Thanks goodness Infiniti makes the sedan! They just need to make more 6-speeds! I also want to test drive the IS300 for a good comparison. I hear Lexus is coming out with a coupe and possibly a V-8 version. Let the horsepower wars begin!
Had similar thoughts as you after taking it for a spin. First impression when I saw the trunk was, 'That's it?'. At least the seat folds down. Having similar reservations about going to a coupe, but I'm single so I really don't have any excuses.
Will be interested to hear your thoughts on the IS300. I test drove one about a year ago, great handling, solid feel, and at the time I felt had a good engine. Though driving the Gs has raised the bar for engine performance.
Am wishing Infiniti would put the same engine in the sedan and coupe a la BMW - the more powerful one of course.
I don't have much new to add, other than to echo what others have said about the Interior issue.
I am a long-time fan of German cars, my past two were BMW3 and Audi A4. I never really paid much attention to any of the Japanese offerings until I saw some pre-release info on the G35C. The fact that the G35 is bringing in folks who never considered a Japanese car before is a promising sign, I think.
I've taken a test drive and have no qualms whatsoever about the performance or handling, its the sportiest thing I've driven to date. But compared to my previous cars, its hard to take the step down in interior creature comforts. Others have mentioned the plastic center console (BIG problem, hate the color & feel of it), I also don't care for the seat controls being on the top of the seat like they are, and I found the radio 'rocker' switches on the wheel to feel a bit loose and cheap. The ergonomics on the dual-zone climate control are a bit wacky as well.
On the plus side, its got a better stock stereo setup than any of the German offerings, and a better Nav system than most too (I'm a sucker for gadgets). Love the pop-up screen. Could live without the clock.
Every time I go for a visit, I am >THIS< close to putting down some coin and placing an order for one of these, but I always walk out empty handed because I can't get over these (admittedly nit-picky) issues. I love the performance and styling, but I know that performance is something I "use" 10% of the time, but the cockpit ergonomics I have to deal with 100% of the time.
Its like the opposite of the problem I have with the somewhat-competing 2003 CLK - That car has a great interior and good-to-great exterior, but the performance is really not there.
Regarding the IS, I tried one on a short drive, and found that it just didn't "feel" right to me. I think the center console was crowding my right leg a bit too much, and I wasn't able to find a suitable seating position. The basic problem is that the car didn't stand out in any one area, but was pretty good in several. But since I never got comfortable in the pilot's seat, I didn't walk away with a favorable impression. I didn't mind the instrumentation at all (like some) and the performance felt OK, but it definitely wasn't the neck-snapper the G35 is. I'm still torn between G35/CLK/330Ci, so I feel some sense of progress in eliminating the IS, at least for now..
The interior has me worried. I REALLY want to love this car. But every nitpick he brought up echos my feelings. But exterior is sooo awesome they should have come up with an equally impressive interior. They just seemed to have dropped the ball. I'm not inviting flames here but has anyone checked out the interior of the Accord V6 6 speed? That's an interior. From the steering wheel to the perforated leather seats to the dual zone climate. I'm so confused.
This looks to be an impressive car, nitpicks over the interior notwithstanding. But then, I now drive a Camaro, and am not offended by the plastic interior now. Still at least a year and a half before trading out is feasible, but this will be on my list of cars to check out when I am ready for my next car.
(Is there a 12-step program for new car addiction?)
After reading the last several posts I'm starting to think that the presence of several folk from the European experience who are complaining about the interior may mean that they really wouldn't mind paying a bit more for one with an upgraded interior, since they're used to paying $5k to $10k more already.
So, I did some searching. It's entirely possible to come up with a brand new interior -- perforated leather, piping, mixed colors, whatever; door panels to match; carpet; headliner; dash kits with real wood/metal/carbon fiber; the audio is easy.
If such a custom upgrade would satisfy you, it won't be that hard to arrange and would even give a unique ride.
Meanwhile people like me can enjoy the performance and the very functional design of the interior without all of (what my grandmother would have called) the "fiddle faddle."
I even found a place you can change the color of the dashboard!
I'm still driving my five year Honda CR-V so a change to ANY sport car, or sedan for that matter, would be an improvement. Ditto for all the notes made about the G35C. Killer looks, but the interior is not exactly up to par to what is expected for a $34K car. MSRP is definitely out of the question but for a new vehicle, that is almost always the case when it comes to newness. There are lots of other vehicles coming up in the next year (or two). Volkswagon has a Passat coupe, Porsche supposedly has a sports car in the $30's in the works (hey, if they can sell the Cayenne SUV...), BMW has the M1. I think I'll wait.
Comments
What do you mean by out of state DMV don't report traffic ticket data back to you local DMV? I'm interest to know, because I got a out of state ticket. Since this is not a G comment, please reply back via email to ed.kwok@navy.mil. Thanks.
I have AIG and they are typically low in price compared to other insurance company's
They quoted me $1570 per year for the G35 and about $1270 for the 350Z or 325Ci.
Just wanted to know if it is the same with other insurance company's.
Steve
But I was in the Honda dealership recently with my S2000 for an oil change and they asked me if I would like to drive anything while I waited. I replied an Accord Coupe 6-speed. No can do. Only 1 such vehicle is to be allocated to each dealership for the entire 2003 model year. They haven't received theirs yet. That would work out to roughly 1/2 of 1% of the 200+ coupes Sheehy Honda sells per year. What's up with that?
Infiniti seems to be confused about committing to sport minded drivers. The M45 should have a six speed option to better compete with a 540i, but doesn't. The G35 should to compete with the 330i, but didn't for the first year+. The former I30t lost it's manual transmission a few years ago. I want to give Infiniti credit for a more exciting drive than Lexus, but they aren't helping their own case.
I think Infiniti do that for a reason, that is to bump up the demand. Think about it, a 6 speed will be available for the G35 Sedan in early 03. All three car will be stock with the same manual trans.
Otherwise, Infiniti is doing a bad job with supply and demand.
The real question here is.... Will the Coupe have a little more room to nego. after the new year? I know one don't have to put out MSRP to own a sedan now. The sedan price should drop a little more once the coupe hit the market.
I am a cash buyer and waiting for the coupe to be release next week, and then will evaluate the situation. Keeping in mind, the convertiable Z is do to be release early part of 03.
Is it true that registration is very expensive in CA, but overall auto insurance is much less compared to other parts of the country?
Anyway, I will know a lot more about the G35 Coupe next week after a brief test drive. I explained to my salesman to deliver the car in March when the weather starts to cooperate. Who knows? It can snow in MArch and April!
When was the last time it snowed in San Diego, California?
I like Discover Infiniti usually, but every now and then a salesguy will say something like this...just nod and walk away. Infiniti did their homework on the G35...they have BMW as the entry level sport lux coupe paradigm. Do only 2% of the 3 ci buyers opt for the manual? Can't imagine Infiniti would be that shortsighted.
BTW, I read a piece from a current G35s owner who went to a focus group at the invite of Infiniti. He and other owners mentioned their likes and dislikes about the cars, took out modified versions of the G and gave quite a bit of feedback. Fast forward a bit and the 2003.5s arrive with some new touches. Infiniti is listening and I think they desperately want to be a contender for the first time on over 10 years.
Lived in SD for 11 years so far, no snow. Though we get frost every once in awhile.
FO&D.
HiC
Um, a car financed through Nissan's credit company is worth far more to the dealership than cash. Cash is pretty worthless when compared to a the same amount, plus a cut of the financing. People with really bad credit can sometimes get a dealership 2 or 3% of say a 9% finance rate. That's huge.
The car just came out, it is hot and supply is low since production is not fully ramped up.
In a matter of months, production will increase and the initial novelty of the car will wear off.
It remains to be seen if it will be just a few months or many months.
Today, you can forget about $1000 over invoice.
Two six speeds (both pre-ordered & pre-sold, not available for test drives) and the rest automatics with varying levels of equipment.
I took a leather w/sport package for a test drive. I'm very impressed with the car. Even with the 18" tires the ride was fine over rough surfaces (railroad tracks I could hear but couldn't feel through the seat.) Seat bolsters very nice (although I wonder about how snug things will be once winter weather and clothing arrives) and seats very comfortable. That back seat however is another issue. Thank God I'm never going to ride back there! Anyone over 5'10 isn't going to be happy.
Straight line acceleration was very nice, not neck snapping by any means but very smooth and powerfull. The cornering was very impressive up to and through 80 mph (that's as fast as I wanted to go in a relatively congested area). Brakes almost scary how fast they bring the car down from speed with no extra effort. Zero to 80mph to Zero was absolutely without any effort and very quick. Interior appointments are OK, nothing great, and not a detriment either IMHO.
I was able to drive a culdesac (in a kind of skid pad manuevuer) but couldn't get the tail of the car to start to let loose at all. Something (the limited slip differential?) kept me from getting the car "loose".
They are selling them at MSRP and have a couple available yet. One Red / Black interior in the show room loaded with every option including Nav was about $37.4. It's looks great in the red and the Black and the dark silver. I didn't care for the light silver.
Then I drove 65 miles home to Milwaukee and visited the Infiniti dealer there last night. One coupe for test drives, none for sale, and no one had any clue about the car, features, etc. What a difference 65 miles makes. Also makes me reconsider actually buying one based on the local dealer experience.
carnut86
I did drive a coupe, by the way, but not the one I bought. It's just a totally different experience than the sedan. Turned out it was too late to actually take delivery of the coupe this evening, so they're going to drive it up Monday and drive back my trade-in--a '99 VW Passat GLX, which has been a great car but nothing like the G35, that's for sure. Will write again when I've had more experience driving the coupe.
Anyhoo, onto my test drive....
Again, I really, really loved the look of this car, and was excited to get a chance to drive it at Grubbs here in Dallas, TX region. First thing I did was pop the trunk...I frowned. How the heck was I gonna fit my driver in this one?? And all my other junk to go with it!?!? Next thing I got in the car, my head found some room....in the sunroof. I tried to fiddle with the power seats, (which make no sense which direction they are going), and then couldn't figure out how to lean back the seat so that I would fit. So the salesman says, "you gotta use the plastic lever to the left of ya." (Hank Hill voice). Yeah, I didn't get why there was a plastic thingie, with the electric thingie too...
The interior looked as good as my current Honda Civic, 1999. (love that car, as i bought it while i was in school...it has sentimental value...but i digress) I was not very impressed with the interior. I always thought that you guys were exaggerating about the interior, but nope...y'all right on the dot.
The acceleration was great, but I echo the comments by djasonw, it sure doesn't feel like a 280hp, and the transmission wasn't as smooth as I would have liked it. This car was a G35 Premium, no Aero with Navi..so I assumed it had 18" wheels..man...what a bumpy ride....LOUD AND BUMPY! The engine was also noisy, and the wifey (who was making faces to me in the rearview mirror) told me later there was a "whiney" sound coming from the back, and she described the "turn signal" (yeah, some of us here in Texas use them...of course, we're Canadian), as manic...click-click-click 10 millions clicks a minute. (she's in a doctoral program for psychology).
Sorry to write an essay, but to summarize, very disappointed...I really wanted to like this car cuz it would've saved me about $10k over the CLK. Teaches me a lesson (and to all of you too) that never make a decision on a car unless you test drive it first. The G35C is a great lookin' car...if it was your buddy's.
I returned to my car after shopping at the local supermarket to see a pearl white new G35 sport coupe parked next to me.
The design really does not have a bad angle. It looks elegant to my eye from the back, front or side and more expensive than it is.
The owner returned to the coupe while I was admiring it and informed me that the car has won the Motor Trend Car of the year. Nissan is doing a great job putting the passion back in its cars.
Now I have to test drive the Z and the G35 Coupe to decide if I want to buy. I did test drive the G35 sedan and agree with previous posters that the engine did not feel like the rated horsepower of 260.
Cheers
Nissan is on an entirely different mission here. You're looking for a luxury car.
Good luck on your search.
Joe W.
Yes, it's true I am looking for a luxury sport coupe. I imagined that the Infiniti version of the Nissan 350Z would be a highly refined version. I guess I expected too much. If I have to spend 38k on a vehicle, it better have an interior that is better than a Nissan Sentra. There is more to a car than a pretty shape.
On the performance side: The car stops very well and with good manners. I personally didn't find the ride that stiff. The exhaust tone is a bit loud under 3/4-WOT to me for a "luxury" coupe. Car shifts very smooth (auto trans). Acceleration has me kind of miffed, the car has 280hp and 270lbs of torque but doesn't feel like it. In magazine tests that I have seen it turns decent numbers in 0-60 and 1/4 mile, but the car doesn't feel like it is putting out that much power. Leaves me wondering what the rear gear ratio is
Price is the other factor. To get the car with what I want on it, leather, sunroof, auto trans, etc., the trim level I would need to get is the leather version with the premium package. This would put the car at almost $35k and for that much there are many other cars I would have to very seriously consider buying over this one (new or used).
Ppower
djasonw, Nissan/Infiniti didn't miss the mark. Their cars are attracting plenty of young enthusiasts to their camp. G35 coupe is a pure sports car, not a luxury coupe. Infiniti isn't interested in attracting the aging MB and Lexus clients, and they should receive a medal for that.
There are? Maybe a used 330ci, but that's about it.
Shucks neo, I'm 59. I don't really think it's just a matter of age. I think it's attractive to some people BECAUSE it's a Nissan, or rather, it's NOT a BMW, Lexus, MB, or other vehicle with its assorted image "issues." Now, I don't think of myself as a snob, but I'd really rather not be seen in one of those cars.
Now, I agree with you when it comes time to buy the car -- then you can't be looking for a soft cushion. Nissan's designers carefully and wisely designed out the "cruise" quotient both in the Z and the Gc.
There will be lots of people who will still come in to look because there are lots of cars on the market that look sporting but, inside, are the same old slushmobile.
Now, I haven't driven one yet, but I have had a seat in one. And as a veteran of Civics, Ramblers and Pintos when I was young, this is far from "cheap." The word 'Spartan' would be more accurate, especially when compared with the Lexus, Audi, or Q ... a quality I actually admire, even in my sunset years.
TAke care. lol.
Joe W.
This was explained to me some years ago in a different Edmunds board as I posted regarding why I'd never own a BMW, owing to the "Yuppie Scum" image. I've since reconsidered and may well be driving a BMW in the next decade if the car I own now doesn't evolve appropriately for me in the next few years. I want 250+ hp, good handling and a manual transmission, which goes a long way towards explaining why I follow this board. Anyway, the poster was articulate and polite, and was able to appreciate the point of my posts, as I am yours.
Where I post regularly (not here), it's been recommended that if I'm not supportive of (fill in the blank), then I should have bought a WRX, since it's cheap and really quick. They're probably right, but it wasn't available at the time, besides which, there are other "issues."
It's interesting to watch people get all edgy and weird when they're called on their choices, relative to whether they bought their vehicle because of its capability or its image.
It often gets ugly. Welcome aboard!
First, I'm 6', and even with the seat down all the way, it seemed that I grazed the roof now and then. I didn't fool with the seat all that much so maybe this could be corrected. Otherwise the seat felt pretty good.
The test drive was short but I can say there is a noticeable difference in power compared to the sedan. Effortless acceleration is how I would best describe it, and I was probably following break-in guidelines and not abusing it. Very impressed.
Took it into a couple cul de sacs that I had driven the sedan in, and found I was able to go faster without the VDC(?) engaging. It felt solid.
Took it out on the highway briefly and made very short work of the onramp while leaving all oncoming traffic behind. Plenty of power going from 65-80. Face hurt from grinning.
The surprising thing to me was the availability. Salesman showed me what they had coming in and there was a nice mix of autos, and about 3 6 speeds coming in as soon as this week. Contrast that with the Z around here where you can't get a test drive and preorder demand won't be satisfied for a couple months yet.
All in all, I think I have found my next car. I am holding out for a 6 speed, but after driving the auto, I may not bother with it. This is coming from someone who was looking to get an A4 V6 6speed, love that car, but it just feels gutless after driving the Gs. Just my .02 .
If I want a Nissan interior looks, I would purchase a Nissan not a Infiniti.
Will be interested to hear your thoughts on the IS300. I test drove one about a year ago, great handling, solid feel, and at the time I felt had a good engine. Though driving the Gs has raised the bar for engine performance.
Am wishing Infiniti would put the same engine in the sedan and coupe a la BMW - the more powerful one of course.
I am a long-time fan of German cars, my past two were BMW3 and Audi A4. I never really paid much attention to any of the Japanese offerings until I saw some pre-release info on the G35C. The fact that the G35 is bringing in folks who never considered a Japanese car before is a promising sign, I think.
I've taken a test drive and have no qualms whatsoever about the performance or handling, its the sportiest thing I've driven to date. But compared to my previous cars, its hard to take the step down in interior creature comforts. Others have mentioned the plastic center console (BIG problem, hate the color & feel of it), I also don't care for the seat controls being on the top of the seat like they are, and I found the radio 'rocker' switches on the wheel to feel a bit loose and cheap. The ergonomics on the dual-zone climate control are a bit wacky as well.
On the plus side, its got a better stock stereo setup than any of the German offerings, and a better Nav system than most too (I'm a sucker for gadgets). Love the pop-up screen. Could live without the clock.
Every time I go for a visit, I am >THIS< close to putting down some coin and placing an order for one of these, but I always walk out empty handed because I can't get over these (admittedly nit-picky) issues. I love the performance and styling, but I know that performance is something I "use" 10% of the time, but the cockpit ergonomics I have to deal with 100% of the time.
Its like the opposite of the problem I have with the somewhat-competing 2003 CLK - That car has a great interior and good-to-great exterior, but the performance is really not there.
Regarding the IS, I tried one on a short drive, and found that it just didn't "feel" right to me. I think the center console was crowding my right leg a bit too much, and I wasn't able to find a suitable seating position. The basic problem is that the car didn't stand out in any one area, but was pretty good in several. But since I never got comfortable in the pilot's seat, I didn't walk away with a favorable impression. I didn't mind the instrumentation at all (like some) and the performance felt OK, but it definitely wasn't the neck-snapper the G35 is. I'm still torn between G35/CLK/330Ci, so I feel some sense of progress in eliminating the IS, at least for now..
I'm not inviting flames here but has anyone checked out the interior of the Accord V6 6 speed? That's an interior. From the steering wheel to the perforated leather seats to the dual zone climate. I'm so confused.
(Is there a 12-step program for new car addiction?)
So, I did some searching. It's entirely possible to come up with a brand new interior -- perforated leather, piping, mixed colors, whatever; door panels to match; carpet; headliner; dash kits with real wood/metal/carbon fiber; the audio is easy.
If such a custom upgrade would satisfy you, it won't be that hard to arrange and would even give a unique ride.
Meanwhile people like me can enjoy the performance and the very functional design of the interior without all of (what my grandmother would have called) the "fiddle faddle."
I even found a place you can change the color of the dashboard!
JW.