whether anyone likes it or not, the recent spike in gas prices is only one reason to hope for better fuel mileage on any new G. The other is fewer emissions. Infiniti could help all of these by doing a couple of things that their competitors have done ALREADY: six speed transmissions which would feature a lower (numerically) final drive ratio for lower RPMs at cruise, hence potentially better gas mileage and lower emissions; also, they need to UPDATE the VQ engine. It needs variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams (not just the former as is now the case), variable air flow management and direct injection. Lexus, Mercedes, BMW and Audi competitors have all these NOW - and generally pollute less and get better MPG while producing more power per liter. The G and M's get great performance by high numerical gearing, but the downside is that they get lousy fuel mileage vs. competitors because this also equates to high RPMs on the highway. The changes above keep Infiniti competitive and maybe a step ahead.
The 298 Hp increase wasnt a "real" increase....they just lowered the torque and raise the rpm, basically messed arund with numbers. 04 and 05 6mts will run almost identical times. I didnt see anything where u were comparing the 280hp g to the 298 hp one, i was commenting on " the 298 hp Gis a great value to the 330 ( with lower hp)"
You are incorrect. The torque is the same as last year, but hp has increase to 298hp. The extra 18 horses for the coupe should result in a 1/10th second quicker 0-60 time and 2/10ths for the sedan.
"...we won't forget to mention the bump in power from 260 to a more muscular 280 horsepower for the sedans. Coupes enjoy nearly 300 horsepower of grin and smoking tire inducing power. We thought the 260 hp G35 sedan was fast, this one doesn't seem overly faster on initial throttle but crank the pedal and it surges like a mad animal towards the 80 mph mark and beyond."
As an owner of a 2005 G35 sedan, I couldn't agree more....
"Peak hp numbers are used by car salesmen to sucker those who dont know about cars. You also have to look at the rpm at which the hp is made, the gearing ratios, the weight etc."
Peak HP numbers are completely fine for the infiniti G35 because it is completely capable of producing these numbers in normal operation. The G35's VQ engine is so smooth you can easily take it up to the redline whenever you want without experiencing any shaking vibrations or really anything except for the excellent exhaust sound. Now if you are affraid of revving your engine, maybe you should get a lincoln or a a cady.
"The peak torque for the 330 is wayyyyy lower in the rpm band compared to the infiniti even if the actual number is lesser."
Again, if you are looking for low end torque, try lincoln and cady. Then again even if the 330i max torque appears so low it does not really mean it is an advantage, because the infiniti's max torque is much higher. Thus, it is completely possible that the g35 has a higher torque even at 2750 rpm. Unfortunately I cannot verify this because I cannot find a torque graph for the stock g35.
"BMW has always been known for putting up incredible acceleration numbers for the amount of hp they advertise. "
Comparisons between the 330i and the g35 sedan show that the g35 has an advantage in accelaration. They also show that the 330i has an advantage in grip, however the G35 coupe will probably negate that advantage with its 19 inch tires.
But you are correct that BMW has excellent reputation, which is why it is selling at such a premium.
I never disputed the fact that g35 cant produce peak numbers in normal operation. But unless you are racing around a track, "normal operation" doesnt not mean redline rpms all the time. Not to mention lot of ppl would like to save gas and improve mileage with moderate throttle esp with the price of gas right now meaning 4500 to 5000 rpms. Having peak torque that low is not an advantage?? Try driving in medium heavy traffic in a S2000....it will make a difference trust me. And I really dont think Infniti's torque at 2750 is more than the bmw peak, but I have no dyno charts either. The g35 does have an advantage in acceleration but nowhere near as the HP difference suggests. I am not knocking the G35, I am buying one. But lets not be blind fanboys and take everything with a pinch of salt.
Speaking of next-gen G35's and torque, has anyone noticed there will be racing G35 coupes with V8's next year in Grand Am? With the M3 evolution to a V8, will this lead to something like that for the G's?
"Team HLM will lead the Infiniti G35 GT Coupe two-car program that brings together Crawford Race Cars for chassis development and Menards Engineering International, which will focus on developing the 4.5 L Infiniti V-8 engine package."
Look forward to seeing this beast on TV - if not in person - in 2006!
anyone knows how fast is the new 2006 g35 coupe 6mt from 0-60 and 0-100 the manual transmission with the sports suspension, i m looking at that car right now to buy it but i havnt found anywhere the specs of this car.
I test drove an 06 Bimmer when it first came out last summer. I was looking between that, the TL and the G35. Right away I was impressed with everything that comes on the G35 standard. Oh, I'm from Canada, I point this out because here the only option for the G35 was the Nav package, everything else was "standard," or already built into the price. So, anywho, fully loaded at the Msrp as I didn't want the Nav package. Now, I drove the 325, they didn't have a 330 on hand to drive, which was fine. It was a comfortable ride, felt sporty and I really liked it. BUT, cause you know a but was coming, before even getting into the price differences, I am not a huge fan of BMW sales people, I believe you're representing your car company, so better be nice. When looking at a car, I look at the performance, overall design, all the big things first, that passes then I start looking for all the little details I want. One thing I want on my next car, built in garage door opener, preferably on the rear view mirror. Now, this shouldn't really be an issue on any car this day and age as they've become a fairly universal standard. So, on the 325 I asked, where's the build in garage door opener? Oh, well, if you want that you have to get the 330, you can't get it on a 325, well unless you want it in after market, but it'll cost you. So this puzzled me, checked at home later, yes, it only comes on the 330 (in canada at least), BUT, not only do you have to get a 330, but you also need the premium package. Realistically, if you're getting a new 330 you're going to get the premium package anyway, but to include such a basic feature in that package and only offer it on the one model? Seemed silly to me. And while this is a little thing, I found most BMW dealerships don't even try to get near the Msrp price around here, hell, the one 325 I test drove they wanted about two thousand less then the MSRP on a 330 more or less fully loaded I priced out online. Other worry I had for the 330 was the engine. I noticed they re-did the 3 series engine again, so it is untested over any period of time, and someone I know who got a new 3 series big engine fully loaded a few years ago has had a ton of engine problems, which I have read others had too. And if I can't trust the engine to go problem free when the engine warranty runs out, I'd basically be feeling like I need to sell my new car within 4 years.
(I'll try to wrap up quick here) So then I head about Lexus and the IS coming out, so I thought I might as well wait to October, well that was a bust. Automatic or manual transmission is entirely a drivers preference, no worries, but after all that waiting for the big engine to come out and not even offer a manual transmission at all? I was shocked. Heh, salesman was trying to tell me how the flippers worked just as well, trust him, so I drove one, when I flip to change gears and there's a 1.5 second delay before it actually kicks into gear, yeah, that's not the same.
So, now it's winter, roads are all a mess, so holding off a couple months, as the G35 seemed to be the best overall fit for me, and I used to have a nissan for 10 years and barely had a problem in that time, so I trust the product. Only thing in test driving those was over the drivers left should, because of where the frame of the car comes down it's a bit of a blind spot and you have to rely more on your mirrors will take some getting used to. Anyone with a G35 find that's not a problem once you have time to get it just right?
And my last thought, sorry bout the length here, from looking around online it does seem like the skyline might be the new 2007 G35 with an outer body design as well as new inside features. Most I've dug up online so far, as far as rumors go, the concept coupe will be shown at the 2006 Detroit auto show, and that may become the new coupe, and in April at the New York show the new sedan will be presented. If those articles are correct. Also, Infiniti is "coming soon" if you go to apple's Ipod website and check the car integration section. I can't see them not having that set up for the 2007 as they passed over the 2006's, so maybe they're saving those types of smaller features for a big 2007 new design push, just a thought.
My 2005 6 speed sedan is listed as 5.8 seconds 0-60 in either Road & Track or Car anr Driver. Since the coupe weighs exactly the same (Infiniti brochure) I would expect a very similar time. I dont't believe the coupe's 19 inch wheels will improve acceleration over the sedan's 18" wheels. Since the coupes larger wheels actually increase the gearing there might be a small acceleration penalty.
The 330I's superior grip can be largely attributed to better tires. The BMW gets Bridgestone Potenzas, one of the best performance tires (see Tirerack.com). The Infiniti G35 gets Bridgestone Turanzas, the lowest rated grand touring tire, per tirerack.com. This would be comparable to playing tennis against someone in sneakers, while wearing street shoes, and having people conclude that you can't move very well. When it comes to traction, it's the tires that have the greatest effect.
I very much dislike the rear end. Can't stand those tail lights. I was hoping the front end of the sedan to be the same like the coupe but it's not happening. The last thing I am hoping for is a 6sp auto tranny and a upscale audi interior.
Hey does anyone have any links to the 2007 Infiniti G35 Coupe. Are they changing it much?? I'm thinking about holding off getting the '06 for the '07....any recs??
Check the Autoweek and Edmunds websites as they have pictures of the Infiniti Coupe prototype from the North American Auto Show in Detroit. The articles indicate that this is a likely indication of the 07 Coupe general appearance. Looks real good imho. Some reports indicate it may be out late this year and others indicate it may be sometime in 07 before its out so depends on how long you are willing to wait to get a coupe.
Go to the Nissan corporate website at http://www.nissannews.com/ There are a lot of pictures of the 2007 G35 coupe but keep in mind this is just a concept. I hope a lot of this carries over to the sedan because it looks great.
Check out www.infinitinews.com or www.infiniti.com to see photos of the '07 Coupe concept and see what they are planning for the interior. Mmm Mmmm Mmm! :shades:
this summer (late) the G 35 will become again the buzz of the industry in this highly competitive market segment with the introduction of the '07 sports sedan. 3.7 litres, 330 horsepower, totally new upgraded interior, with M 35/45 -esque voice recognition, surround sound, LDW (lane departure warning), and others,.....
With a Corporate front end signature similar to the popular M series,...the newest sedan will be wider,lower,more powerful, with oodles of creature comfort options (can you say back-up camera?), with an attractive wood interior option for those having withdrawls when they move over from the likes of LEXUS and M Benz !!
Watch for a similar enthusiast car mag editor groups to go Gaw Gaw over the new G series as the often wondered about 3-series killer!! (This will be more like executioner)
The new york auto show will no doubt make a believer out of many doubting thomas'.
Get your order in now,....they'll be hard to get once the show starts !!
Well, we all hope that you are correct re the G37; however, so far, there is precious LITTLE info out on this car. We saw the coupe concept displayed, but with no tech info. We have seen a ref in a Japanese car mag to a 3.7L engine, but with no specs. We have heard that the G will be updated, but other than these two tidbits - zilch. Since you seem to have some info (dealer?) can you please tell us if the new G will have a six speed auto? Variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams? Direct injection? Improved fuel economy? I am going to NY to see this car in a few weeks, but don't know if they will reveal any specs or just more platform views. Anything you can add authoratatively would be appreciated by many of us.
"Infiniti invites you to a private viewing at the NY Auto Show"!! I will be one of the first to see this car!! I was invited by infiniti. I will let you know my opinion of the next G
I don't think a convertible would be any more redundant than the G35 coupe is to the 350Z coupe. And I would love to see a G35 convertible sedan (with AWD of course). Especially since Infiniti does not make a convertible.
the intro of the new G at the NY Auto Show and we still know precious little about it (certainly on the tech specs side anyway). I guess we have to salute Nissan for being able to keep secrets so well. The Japanese certainly keep them better than anyone else, especially Americans, or even Europeans. All I can say is that I hope we finally get some real info in NY, not just more platform views. Let's hope so.
It looks like an update/refrest of the current car more than a totally new design. The Coupe will look much better than the sedan I think, just like it was with the current generation.
check out pictures - personally, i think its very sharp! nothing drastic from the old one, but a lot more aggressive looking. keeps the same personality too. nice!
While I think the new design (interior and exterior) is an improvement over the last generation G, I am somewhat disappointed in the Tech Specs. There is more to a car than just adding horsepower (and with the redline now around 7500rpm some of that new power may be less than usable in "normal" driving). I had hoped that Infiniti would have addressed two of the "complaint" areas about the G: interior noise and gas mileage. Maybe they did, since we don't have those specs yet, but retaining the five speed auto suggests that the car will still cruise at relatively high rpm compared to its competition. A six speed would have helped that situation with an O/D sixth. Oh well, I am sure that it is a better car, but how much?
What do you people think of the new look sedan?? Do you like it?? I personally like the rear and interior dash!!!!!! The rear is more rounded like the 2003 and 2004. The 2006 rear looks boxy!!!!!!
Also, anyone have a timeline when this car will be available at dealers?? August or late fall?? Anyone get any info on when it will be ready?? Thanks
Note the seat controls-in the normal place on the left side of the driver's seat. Trunk opening/tailight treatment similar to Lexus' & reminiscent of old Altima. Nice wheels, though the nooks and crannies look like they will be tough to keep clean. Son of M (imho, in a good way) I'm going to the show tomorrow to check it out anyway.
Yes it's hard to imagine how increasing the hp and sticking with the 5 sp auto could increase gas mileage at all. You'd think with that much power, they wouldn't need to be running 2400 rpm at 70 mph.
According to NissanNews.com it's supposed to be at dealers in November 2006. Overall, I like it. While I don't care for some specifics, nothing is a deal-breaker and I plan to order a 6MT Sport model. Overall everything considered including styling and technical specs it's a more desirable car to me than any Lexus or BMW except for maybe a 6 Series (assuming sacrificing 4 door practicality and convenience and price not an issue and given that manual transmission + RWD is a must.)
I know you may think I'm crazy but I prefer the old body style over the new, maybe the new body will grow on me. Here goes the winner!! I like the old interior over the new one too. I like the cylinder dash. I added a wood kit and it made a world of difference. I do like the rear of the new car.
absolutely stunning! I give Infiniti an A for styling; and the newly revised VQ engine sounds like a winner with most (but not all) new techno goodies added. For example, it has variable timing on both intake and exhaust cams, variable flow air intake system, BUT NOT direct injection and NO six speed auto. The last is a major blunder in my humble opinion. While people buy the G for some level of performance, the "real world" situation is that gas is getting more and more expensive with little hope of any serious permanent reduction. Infiniti could have addressed both the performance and gas mileage issues by adding a six speed auto and making 6th a serious O/D gear for highway cruising, while the lower gears would have continued the high performance acceleration that everyone loves. The competition has it, and as gas continues to become more and more expensive, some people will buy the competition because of it.
I think it will be released before November 06. The Infiniti site says "Fall". Some reports say November, but this would be a very late release for a 07 MY. Especially as they have the car and have debuted it at the NY Auto Show. I plan to wait it out. I looked at the M35, a bit pricey for a car with a 5 speed auto and heavy on gas. The new G35 should be a little more fuel efficient, the car is well equipped and not that small at 187 inches long. I expect pricing to be South of $40K for G35X with Navi.
I still think the pricing will be below $40k. The G is Infiniti's TL fighter. The TL with navi can now be bought for around $32K. In reality they are two completely different cars, but they always get compared to each other. I think the new G will be available September.
I test drove a couple of early build G35 automatics – and 2 (Sport & Non-Sport) 2005s. There is certainly much to like about these sedans.
// WARNING: speculation mode = on \\
While I am a bit disappointed to read that the new 2007 G will retain the 5 speed automatic trans, I think that there is yet some hope for both some improvement in acceleration performance and a simultaneous gain in EPA MPG \ reduction in high gear RPM.
The engine modifications that now allow over 300 HP for 2007 with the automatic suggest to me that the automatic may have received some internal attention. In addition to some strengthening to deal with the additional engine power ( that apparently required de-tuning of the VQ version used with automatics, 15 HP less - compared to the 6 speed manual trans. version of the same motor ) it is possible that some of the internal trans. gear ratios may also have been changed. In the Lincoln LS V8s, for example, the 5R55N fifth gear ratio was changed from 0.75 to 0.71 in late 2001, providing an approx. additional 5 % reduction of RPM at cruise. I still find the current fifth gear = 0.834 to be a rather odd ratio – clearly not a very “deep” overdrive. Even moving to 0.75 would reduce RPM by 10% or so.
If ( in addition to increasing the peak HP ) the new version of the 3.5L VQ’s torque peak is both higher than before and is raised significantly at low RPM as well, it may also be possible to change the G35 automatic’s final drive ratio – say from the current 3.357 to something like 3.13? As used in the previous generation M45? An additional 6.5% reduction in steady cruise RPM.
Together, this would constitute a significant improvement, to me. Since Infiniti warrantees their drivetrains for 72 months \ 70,000 miles ( nearly double the coverage I have on my current GM sedan ) I doubt there is any real concern for the motor’s longevity, at the relatively elevated RPM levels necessary to maintain the actual highway cruising speeds (often 80-ish) now evident outside metropolitan areas. [[ And even on my commute into MidTown Atlanta most mornings before 6:30 AM ! ]] But I’d prefer less feel of mechanical ‘busyness’ and I’d expect that an improvement in the fuel mileage could be achieved with any substantial decrease in highway speed RPM.
Since the current G35 with 198 HP has a TQ peak of only (?) 260 – 10 less than the version with 280 HP used in the automatic – and the peak is at 4,800 RPM, I have hopes that for 2007 Infiniti has developed a motor with more TQ and specifically with more available down lower in the RPM range.
If the area under the engine’s torque curve is substantially increased, the current level of acceleration could be maintained with a lower (numerical) final drive.
14.4 is the quarter mile time I recall from the last R&T test I remember – and though that was the AWD version, the higher final drive ratio likely cancels the additional weight of the AWD version. And the last MT comparison test I recall including the automatic G was 14.6 or so.
Meaning a mid-14 appears to be a reasonable number for the latest G.
If the new G is capable of such numbers (or marginally better) and also improves the EPA (and real world) MPG numbers, and also reduces RPM at cruise by 10% or more, and it is otherwise materially enhanced in refinement, etc. ( and, and ) I will be motivated to test drive one in November . . .
I will be quite curious to see final (complete) specifications & read test reports when published.
At least they (finally) moved the seat controls on the G from where they were annoying - against my right thigh. - Ray Interested & waiting . . .
Good post. I agree with your comments and have posted similar comments re the lack of a six speed in the new G. There doesn't appear to be any reason why Infiniti couldn't simply change the ratio on the existing 5th gear to result in lower rpms at cruise. I think that the current G cruises at something like 2500 rpm at 60mph, which is VERY high compared to almost any of its competition and clearly contributes to reduced highway mileage AND higher interior noise. Both of these were frequent "complaints" on this and other Infiniti message boards over the past couple of years. One would think that Nissan would have been listening and the new model would offer an excellent opportunity to "correct" these issues. As you imply, maybe they did, but we won't know until we get some more tech info. In any event, if Infiniti did not make some efforts to improve gas mileage, I think it may hurt sales to some people given the spike in gas prices we have seen over the past year. Both the Lexus IS and the upcoming GS350 get reasonably good gas mileage for their classes (and both have six speed autos).
Comments
As an owner of a 2005 G35 sedan, I couldn't agree more....
Peak HP numbers are completely fine for the infiniti G35 because it is completely capable of producing these numbers in normal operation. The G35's VQ engine is so smooth you can easily take it up to the redline whenever you want without experiencing any shaking vibrations or really anything except for the excellent exhaust sound. Now if you are affraid of revving your engine, maybe you should get a lincoln or a a cady.
"The peak torque for the 330 is wayyyyy lower in the rpm band compared to the infiniti even if the actual number is lesser."
Again, if you are looking for low end torque, try lincoln and cady. Then again even if the 330i max torque appears so low it does not really mean it is an advantage, because the infiniti's max torque is much higher. Thus, it is completely possible that the g35 has a higher torque even at 2750 rpm. Unfortunately I cannot verify this because I cannot find a torque graph for the stock g35.
"BMW has always been known for putting up incredible acceleration numbers for the amount of hp they advertise. "
Comparisons between the 330i and the g35 sedan show that the g35 has an advantage in accelaration. They also show that the 330i has an advantage in grip, however the G35 coupe will probably negate that advantage with its 19 inch tires.
But you are correct that BMW has excellent reputation, which is why it is selling at such a premium.
See:http://www.speedtv.com/articles/auto/roadracing/20955/
"Team HLM will lead the Infiniti G35 GT Coupe two-car program that brings together Crawford Race Cars for chassis development and Menards Engineering International, which will focus on developing the 4.5 L Infiniti V-8 engine package."
Look forward to seeing this beast on TV - if not in person - in 2006!
(I'll try to wrap up quick here) So then I head about Lexus and the IS coming out, so I thought I might as well wait to October, well that was a bust. Automatic or manual transmission is entirely a drivers preference, no worries, but after all that waiting for the big engine to come out and not even offer a manual transmission at all? I was shocked. Heh, salesman was trying to tell me how the flippers worked just as well, trust him, so I drove one, when I flip to change gears and there's a 1.5 second delay before it actually kicks into gear, yeah, that's not the same.
So, now it's winter, roads are all a mess, so holding off a couple months, as the G35 seemed to be the best overall fit for me, and I used to have a nissan for 10 years and barely had a problem in that time, so I trust the product. Only thing in test driving those was over the drivers left should, because of where the frame of the car comes down it's a bit of a blind spot and you have to rely more on your mirrors will take some getting used to. Anyone with a G35 find that's not a problem once you have time to get it just right?
And my last thought, sorry bout the length here, from looking around online it does seem like the skyline might be the new 2007 G35 with an outer body design as well as new inside features. Most I've dug up online so far, as far as rumors go, the concept coupe will be shown at the 2006 Detroit auto show, and that may become the new coupe, and in April at the New York show the new sedan will be presented. If those articles are correct. Also, Infiniti is "coming soon" if you go to apple's Ipod website and check the car integration section. I can't see them not having that set up for the 2007 as they passed over the 2006's, so maybe they're saving those types of smaller features for a big 2007 new design push, just a thought.
When it comes to traction, it's the tires that have the greatest effect.
http://www.autospies.com/article/index.asp?articleId=6302&categoryId=12
http://www.7tune.com/skyline_001.html
Make sure you click on the pics to see the whole thing... and a V8!?">link title
007
There are a lot of pictures of the 2007 G35 coupe but keep in mind this is just a concept. I hope a lot of this carries over to the sedan because it looks great.
Check out www.infinitinews.com or www.infiniti.com to see photos of the '07 Coupe concept and see what they are planning for the interior. Mmm Mmmm Mmm! :shades:
M
With a Corporate front end signature similar to the popular M series,...the newest sedan will be wider,lower,more powerful, with oodles of creature comfort options (can you say back-up camera?), with an attractive wood interior option for those having withdrawls when they move over from the likes of LEXUS and M Benz !!
Watch for a similar enthusiast car mag editor groups to go Gaw Gaw over the new G series as the often wondered about 3-series killer!! (This will be more like executioner)
The new york auto show will no doubt make a believer out of many doubting thomas'.
Get your order in now,....they'll be hard to get once the show starts !!
Doctor Feelgood
And G37 just sounds... weird. G35 has a nicer ring to it. Does anybody agree with me on that?
The convertible Nissan Z makes a convertible G somewhat redundant(both G and Z share the same platform)
And G37 just sounds... weird. G35 has a nicer ring to it. Does anybody agree with me on that?
No. Personally I would prefer G39 since that would suggest more displacement than a G37.
Also, when will this car be in the dealer car lots??
http://www.autospies.com/article/index.asp?articleId=7030&categoryId=
Not nearly as impressive as the concept, hope the official photos make it look better.
M
check out pictures - personally, i think its very sharp! nothing drastic from the old one, but a lot more aggressive looking. keeps the same personality too. nice!
-thene
Also, anyone have a timeline when this car will be available at dealers?? August or late fall?? Anyone get any info on when it will be ready?? Thanks
Trunk opening/tailight treatment similar to Lexus' & reminiscent of old Altima.
Nice wheels, though the nooks and crannies look like they will be tough to keep clean.
Son of M (imho, in a good way)
I'm going to the show tomorrow to check it out anyway.
// WARNING: speculation mode = on \\
While I am a bit disappointed to read that the new 2007 G will retain the 5 speed automatic trans, I think that there is yet some hope for both some improvement in acceleration performance and a simultaneous gain in EPA MPG \ reduction in high gear RPM.
The engine modifications that now allow over 300 HP for 2007 with the automatic suggest to me that the automatic may have received some internal attention. In addition to some strengthening to deal with the additional engine power ( that apparently required de-tuning of the VQ version used with automatics, 15 HP less - compared to the 6 speed manual trans. version of the same motor ) it is possible that some of the internal trans. gear ratios may also have been changed. In the Lincoln LS V8s, for example, the 5R55N fifth gear ratio was changed from 0.75 to 0.71 in late 2001, providing an approx. additional 5 % reduction of RPM at cruise. I still find the current fifth gear = 0.834 to be a rather odd ratio – clearly not a very “deep” overdrive. Even moving to 0.75 would reduce RPM by 10% or so.
If ( in addition to increasing the peak HP ) the new version of the 3.5L VQ’s torque peak is both higher than before and is raised significantly at low RPM as well, it may also be possible to change the G35 automatic’s final drive ratio – say from the current 3.357 to something like 3.13? As used in the previous generation M45? An additional 6.5% reduction in steady cruise RPM.
Together, this would constitute a significant improvement, to me. Since Infiniti warrantees their drivetrains for 72 months \ 70,000 miles ( nearly double the coverage I have on my current GM sedan ) I doubt there is any real concern for the motor’s longevity, at the relatively elevated RPM levels necessary to maintain the actual highway cruising speeds (often 80-ish) now evident outside metropolitan areas. [[ And even on my commute into MidTown Atlanta most mornings before 6:30 AM ! ]] But I’d prefer less feel of mechanical ‘busyness’ and I’d expect that an improvement in the fuel mileage could be achieved with any substantial decrease in highway speed RPM.
Since the current G35 with 198 HP has a TQ peak of only (?) 260 – 10 less than the version with 280 HP used in the automatic – and the peak is at 4,800 RPM, I have hopes that for 2007 Infiniti has developed a motor with more TQ and specifically with more available down lower in the RPM range.
If the area under the engine’s torque curve is substantially increased, the current level of acceleration could be maintained with a lower (numerical) final drive.
14.4 is the quarter mile time I recall from the last R&T test I remember – and though that was the AWD version, the higher final drive ratio likely cancels the additional weight of the AWD version. And the last MT comparison test I recall including the automatic G was 14.6 or so.
Meaning a mid-14 appears to be a reasonable number for the latest G.
If the new G is capable of such numbers (or marginally better) and also improves the EPA (and real world) MPG numbers, and also reduces RPM at cruise by 10% or more, and it is otherwise materially enhanced in refinement, etc. ( and, and ) I will be motivated to test drive one in November . . .
I will be quite curious to see final (complete) specifications & read test reports when published.
At least they (finally) moved the seat controls on the G from where they were annoying - against my right thigh.
- Ray
Interested & waiting . . .