Infiniti G35 Coupe

gee35coupe · February 2003

for the chased me into an Accord. Love the car, hated the hard plastic on the dash.

robmarch · February 2003

I can totally understand a chintzy interior chasing someone from a Nissan Altima to a Honda Accord, the new Accord interior is excellent. But, the G35 coupe and Accord are pretty different cars, apart from the fact that they're both V6 MT coupes.

I can see someone not liking the interior and going to a 3 series coupe, but the accord is FWD with no differential. At least the CL-s has a front differential, though it's front wheel drive.

For someone who is looking for a luxury coupe that's fun to drive, I can see the interior making the decision. But, I think this car was marketed more toward someone who wants a performance coupe that has luxury features.

Of course, I like the WRX interior, so take the fact that I like the G35's interior with a grain of salt. I'm also not a big fan of the VW interiors. I must be the only one:)

gee35coupe · February 2003

The performance was actually kinda dangerous for me. I'm not quite mature enough for a car like that. I had a 300zxTT that I had to sell because I couldn't keep it under 100mph when I drove it. When the speed limit is 65mph in most places the only real reason to buy a car like that is if you can't live without the look of it. For the hard plastic and funny looking steering wheel it just wasn't worth the $34,000 to me. I'm sure it's a great car though. And the interior actually looks fine just everything in it is so hard.

robmarch · February 2003

Actually, that's why I'm leaning toward the regular old WRX instead of the STi. I think the regular WRX still has pretty incredible performance for the price. Certainly enough for my daily commute. Bumping up to the 30k+ category, the STi and G35 coupe are excellent cars, but I think I will get by:)

I think the G35 coupe that parks in my parking lot at work is one of the nicest looking cars currently made.

gee35coupe · February 2003

There's one where I work too. I will own one one day. It just won't be a new one. Not worth it to me.

toffel · February 2003

Has anyone changed their high beam/fog light bulb or any other bulbs? I have a 6-spd coupe and am very interested in changing every possible halogen bulb to a brighter white style. Any suggestions?

8u6hfd · February 2003

I've tried the PIAA SuperPlasma (SuperPlasma low, Extreme White high). GO with Extreme White...it's a better match in color.

To do this operation (literally)...

You turn the wheel or remove the wheel, remove the screws and the quick release fasteners from the fender well lining to access the bulbs.

Squeeze the spring clip and rotate down. Replace bulb.

The little side light, it is difficult to realign it (lots of pushing to compress the rubber seal). There's a tab you grab and turn Counter Clockwise to remove.

toffel · February 2003

Thanks for the insight! Otherwise I might have started with the bolts on the headlight-housing under the hood. Any suggestions for the side light, in terms of which bulb?

8u6hfd · February 2003

194 (3watts) or 168 (5 watts)

gpwatfrd · February 2003

I priced a G35 out in Dec and could not believe what they wanted in terms of lease payments. I was wondering if anyone here has leased the car or received prices. If so please let me know what your numbers were. They told me 0 down(just inception fees) 39m 15k per yr $549 per month w/msrp of $34,795 I love the car but not that much. I special ordered a 330i MSRP $40,745 0 down 36m 12k per yr $498 month.

How could you ask those numbers on a $34,000 car. Infiniti is making a big mistake. They finally come out with a car that is getting some real interest and they take so much advantage that they are turning people away like myself and many others .

Have others had similar experiences?

habitat1 · February 2003

Must reflect the horrific depreciation of previous Infiniti models. Even if the G35 is a great car, it will still suffer from the halo effect.

If you really like a G35, the only prudent thing to do is buy one for cash and keep it for 6-7 years and 100k+ miles after which depreciation is irrelevant. Leasing an Infiniti for 3 years is a waste of money.

P.S. I went to my Nissan dealer a few weeks ago to look at a used E320 Wagon as a possible replacement for our SUV. The Wagon was a 2001 with 70k highway miles and priced at $36,900. Right next to it was a 2002 Q45 with 16k miles and priced at $35,900. The Q45 lists for $5k more than the E320 new. My rough calculation shows the original Mercedes buyer paid around 20 cents per mile in depreciation to drive the E320 and the Infiniti buyer around $1.40 per mile in depreciation to drive the Q45. Ouch.

mariner7 · February 2003

There's an article in March CAR about Nissan head Carlos Ghosn. It says the GTR will have TT V8 and come out in 2003. The rumor was either a V8 or TT V6. And 2003 seems too optimistic. CAR just interviewed big cheese, so maybe it knows a bit more than me!

It also says something about a hot Z. Maybe that's the one with TT V6. It has an article comparing Z & RX8, calls both brilliant, says the difference between them is similar to difference between Boxster & 330Ci (one is not really a sports car).

jwilson1 · February 2003

Great news, maybe. He didn't say where. Did he?

JW

mariner7 · February 2003

You mean where GTR will be introduced? I think it said something about global. But I heard that before: GTR will be sold everywhere, including Europe. Makes sense for it to spearhead Infiniti's expansion into Europe scheduled for 2005. I still doubt the 2003!

robmarch · February 2003

often dealers will keep a used car of another make on the lot as a comparison, and keep it priced very high to encourage people to buy their model. Did you check the true market value of the mercedes in edmunds and compare that?

jwilson1 · February 2003

So often such cars are JDM and Euro but never make it to our market. I understand why, but I do wish it weren't so.

JW

habitat1 · February 2003

Actually I did check Edmunds TMV and, interestingly, a 2001 E320 Wagon with 70k miles has an almost identical value as a 2002 Q45 with 16,000 miles ($38k +/-). But again, that strikes me as horrific depreciation for a 1 year old Q45, which had it's original sticker of $58k laying on the dash. I could have bought a new 2001 E320 Wagon in May 2001 for about $48k. That's 2 years and 70k miles for $10k depreciation on the Mercedes vs. 1 year and 16k miles for $20k depreciation on the Infiniti.

How Infiniti is even able to offer lease deals on their cars is beyond me. The depreciation on the Q45 works out to $1,500+ per month. That will buy you a $250k vacation house at today's interest rates.

robmarch · February 2003

also, odds are much better that the mercedes sold for MSRP, while the Q45s may normally sell for just over invoice. The depreciation factored into the lease is based on the purchase price, not the MSRP.

kdshapiro · February 2003

Q45 being sold at invoice. That still does not bode well for the car. I wouldn't bet my last dollar the Mercedes sold at MSRP either. I'm sure something in the middle is the reality.

robmarch · February 2003

yes, but I think the german cars tend to sell for closer to MSRP than the Japanese makes. The G35 coupe is probably still at MSRP, but the sedan is heading for several hundred over invoice. The 330i is still selling for well over 1k over invoice, right? I have no direct experience with the Q or the Mercedes, so I was just throwing out another possibility.

Infiniti still doesn't have the same name clout as BMW or Mercedes, or even Lexus, but probably on par with Audi or Volvo, from my view. That can make a big difference in the high dollar market.

jwilson1 · February 2003

Does anyone else think as I do, that depreciation (or retention) attaches to a model as well as to a brand .... if so, is it possible that the G35 Coupe will not depreciate to nearly the extent as much as the ill-received Coupe?

Even if that's correct, however, it will be a number of model years (like maybe a century!) before Infiniti has anything like the reputation and prestige of MB .... of course they may screw theirs up with Chrysler! but that's another story.

JW

robmarch · February 2003

you could check to see if the Z06 depreciates differently than the regular corvette? I think in the short term, the coupes will hold their value better. over 4-5 years, if they are eventually selling several hundred over invoice, then they will depreciate more, due to the higher initial purchase price. (not a big change there, though)

the used luxury market for BMW, MB and Lexus (and the Porsche boxster) really keeps their resale high. There are specific used BMW and MB dealers...when is the last time you saw a used specialty Infiniti dealer

gpwatfrd · February 2003

I thought I would give you all a quick update on the pricing for the G35c The sales person at the dealer we got pricing from tried to reach out to us again. I told him what I told all of you.(41,000 BMW 330i for $498 per month refer to post #1132 ) After speaking with his manager the price dropped from ;
1. 0 down, 15k, $539 per month MSRP $34,195 (no sport) TO
2. 0 down,12k, $500 per month MSRP $34,195
vs
3. 0 down,12k, $498 per month MSRP $40,745 BMW330i

I'm sticking with the BMW for a few reasons.

1. I know next year that people will be paying $460 per month for the Infinti while I am the SUCKER paying $500 for the same car. On the other hand I have been pricing the 3 series for about 3 years now and this is the first time I remember the lease payments being this attractive (other than Dec of 2002)

2. I love the interior (natural brown leather) of the 3 series. I think the G35 interior looks very cheap and unattractive

3. I see the car as being a vehicle that is not only fun to drive like the G35c but also a nice cruiser for trips to the shore etc....

4. run flats w/tire pressure monitor, A great option for only an add'l $300 (when you calculate in terms of lease payments it is peanuts)

5. I never driven a BMW. (I been through Lexus,Mercedes,Audi,Pontiac,ford.) I hope 3 years from now I could say that all the hype about the 3 series is for real.... Only time will tell...

gambit293 · February 2003

I'd guess that the G35c might have poor depreciation, but not as bad as a typical Infiniti.

Afterall, it is precisely because of this expected depreciation that many ppl (i.e. me) are waiting to pounce on a used G35c.

In short, I'd guess that the g35c will (at least initially for perhaps the first 2 or 3 years) retain semi-decent resale value since there will be high demand for USED g35c and limited supply.

You follow my thinking or am I nuts?

richard52 · February 2003

Just test drove a
G35c today and loved it. Having just experienced 20" of snow I'm concerned about winter drivability. I currently drive a fwd AcuraTL which is great in the snow. Any experience with the G35c in snow? The dealer wouldn't budge from sticker by the way.

bigorange30 · February 2003

in what changes might be made for '04.

robmarch · February 2003

interesting idea, but I still think there will be more demand for the other used luxury manufacturers. if you're interested in a 2 year old G35 coupe, you'll probaby get a good deal.

kdshapiro · February 2003

All RWD vehicles exhibit similiar handling dynamics in the snow. Since you live in NJ you could probably have judged how the car would have fared in your neighboorhood. You could limp along with all-seasons, but to really have more surefootedness you need snows.

I think the recent blizzard, gave new meaning to the term "limp-along".

8u6hfd · February 2003

The coupe's wide tires aren't really suited for the winter. Better off driving the TL in the snow.

stanny1 · February 2003

Is this the old 330i with the 225hp and 5 speed manual or the upgraded new 330i with 235hp and the same six-speed as the M3?
It really makes a difference!

gpwatfrd · February 2003

It is 225 hp. The optional sports package for an add'l $3,900 was something that I considered. I wanted an automatic and found out that it must come with 6 speed manual so it became a nonfactorfor me.

srhadden · March 2003

I live in south suburbs of Chicago. All I see are BMW 3 series everywhere. With that kind of popularity you would think that they would not retain their value that well, but from reading these threads I guess they do? :-/

And when is Infiniti gonna offer some kind of incentive?

dklanecky · March 2003

Based on their sales results, (up 56% over last February), I doubt that Infiniti will be out with any incentives any time soon.

http://nissannews.com/

kdshapiro · March 2003

BMW has closed out a record year as well. Go to News and Events on BMWs website. There have really never been incentives to had with BMWs. Although there is a little wiggle room for negotiations.

Familiarity as it pertains to cars, does not breed low resale value.

billyperks · March 2003

I just read this months issue of Car and Driver and guess what? the MAZDA RX 8 beats the Infiniti G35 Coupe.
Guys don't get me wrong, I am not here to bash the "G", just wanted some feedback on the Car and Driver results.
If I was a Bachelor, the "G" would definitly be on my short list.

bigorange30 · March 2003

It is on my short list and I am married with 2 kids. It has a back seat you know.

gambit293 · March 2003

I see nothing wrong with this. IMO, the RX-8 is a fine vehicle as well.

C&D tends to favor performance over comfort and luxury. I guess they felt the RX-8 had superior handling. Not to mention the Mazda's considerable price advantage(37,465 vs. 28,300 as tested.

Notice however, that they did test the G35 to be faster than the RX-8. In fact, oddly enough the G35c manual they used was even faster than the last 350z they tested.

billyperks · March 2003

Who wants to drive around with a sports coupe with two child seat in the rear.
If I was rich enough probably I would have my present car (TLS) along with G35 coupe and a Range Rover.:)

robmarch · March 2003

the results were pretty close. I think it was 1 point separating the two. Every driver will have preferences, when magazines test them to be that close, personal preferences like interior and exterior features become the deciding factors.

They did complain about the G's gearbox, and really praised the mazda's gearbox.

dtran2149 · March 2003

The largest difference in the test was the amenities score. I think the RX-8 got only a 5 vs. the 9 or 10 score for the G35. Evidently they test drove the stripped down version of the RX-8. If the RX-8 with the GT package was tested, this would have increased the RX-8's score even more. Potentially offsetting this would have been lower value for money component and potentially the performance.

bigorange30 · March 2003

Did you know that insurance rates are lower for those cars with back seats than they are for those without?

arancibia · March 2003

I've read a number of the RX8 articles (www.rx8forum.com). Many positive comments.

I do like the fact that it is unique and much lighter than the G35 giving it the handling edge.

However, my two concerns with the RX8 are its low torque, looks (?? not sure it looks that good) and engine (will it last???, maintenance??).

In all three of the above the G35 is much better. It would seem that the RX8 is more of a sports car; however, this seems to be odd given that the G35 has been very favorably compared with the 350Z.

Anyway, I'd love to see and drive the RX8 but it will be a while yet. And the G35 is still too much at the current prices. And the comments on depreciation are definitely an issue.

So looks like I may just get a newer '03 Miata (now have M1 generation) and wait to see how this develops. Besides I don't quite need a backseat just yet, but likely will in a couple of years.

Maybe by then G35 prices will be more accesible (dealer discount or used models) and RX8s will be better understood!

robmarch · March 2003

Nissan was targeting more of a short wheelbase "sports car" with the Z, and more of a "GT" with the G coupe. most of the articles I've read that compared the two have said that the longer wheelbase makes for an even better handling platform in the G, but it's still a GT at heart. (The 996 911 is in a similar situation too, though, so it's not like that's a bad thing.)

Trading a little bit of autocross ability for low end grunt can be a good trade for a lot of people. And, the G has pretty high limits, and seems to approach them predictably. If a car has higher limits, but is unpredictable at the edge, it can be a less "usable" car except on the track.

I think they're both good options for RWD buyers.

gobanana · March 2003

What is the maintenance/upkeep for the G35 coupe?
Is it expensive like a BMW or any European car or is it cheap like a Honda/Acura?

I heard the oil filter for the G35c is expensive and that all maintenance had to be done at a dealer- to hard to do at home.
??????

stebu · March 2003

I saw my first Coupe on the road today, actually in a parking lot. Silver, so it did a nice job of hiding the salt and dirt that everyone's vehicles are covered with around here. I like the looks of this car more each time I see it.

jwilson1 · March 2003

As I see it, C&Ds comparo was lost by the coupe, not won by the RX-8.

Strike one: VDC that won't shut off. Nissan insists the car has sports intentions and its performance numbers hold that up, but with a VDC unit that won't shut off it's performance is compromised in any situation where you would want oversteer. In competition this summer in Solo events vs. Boxster, S2k, E36 M3 ... it will be toast with its VDC on.

Strike two: Nissan's 'notchy' transmission. No one makes a unit at this price comparable to Mazda! Their trans. design skill makes a drive in a Miata unforgettable.

Strike three: the Coupe picked up extra points for "amenities" and features, but it cost 8 or 9 thousand dollars more!

I'm not worried about number 3, personally. Number 2 is manageable. But the VDC issue may get me to buy a car I don't like as well ... we'll see if that's one of the features Nissan fixes with the new release.

JW

robmarch · March 2003

I haven't experienced the 6-speed, but I wouldn't expect the shifter to be as good as the miata or the S2000, from the reviews. Still, the miata and s2000 are pretty universally recognized as having some of the best shifters on the planet. If the RX8 has a shifter that's as good as the miata, that shouldn't surprise too many.

But, they did rate the G's shifter pretty low. I can't see it being that bad. If it's not vague and rubbery, has reasonable throws, and doesn't go into unexpected gears, I can't see deducting too many points.

When I drive one, I'll check back in

afty · March 2003

The RX8's transmission has to handle only 159 lb-ft of torque compared to the G35's 270 lb-ft, so it's understandable that the G35's transmission isn't as light or as smooth. It's easier to design a transmission that doesn't have to handle a lot of torque.

jwilson1 · March 2003

Actually, there are many people who say their transmission becomes smoother, less notchy, after they've had it for a thousand or two thousand miles. The new ones, most agree, are "stiff" and loosen with time.

This, too, could have influenced the tests I suppose if C&D had a brand new one .... but I'd think Nissan would have supplied a car from the press fleet .... should be broken in pretty thoroughly by now.

JW

bigorange30 · March 2003

I read the article but don't come to the same conclusion as they did. From what I read in their data, the G beat the RX in almost every category. The transmission is the only place that I saw the RX had an edge. They claim differences in braking and handling but they are very small. The difference in value (price) of a 7 rating for the G and a 9 for the RX when there is only a $2k difference in base price is overemphasing it IMO. I wonder if these testers were just biased fro some reason.

Infiniti G35 Coupe

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