Infiniti has its hands full with two introductions today at the 2002 New York Auto Show, but FA editors believe the G35 “Sport Coupe” is the one of more importance. While the M45 sedan is new, it's basically a rebadged Cedric/Gloria sedan from the Japanese domestic market. The G35 coupe, on the other hand is something new.; And it’s stunning.
Mix the new 350Z and G35 Sedan into a coupe design, and you have a very good idea what the G35 Sport Coupe looks like. Up front, there’s a slightly more rounded version of the G35 Sedan’s grille and headlights that are similar to the G35 Sedan, but somewhat more swept back and edgy. The profile itself hints more than quietly at the new 350Z. But the overall appearance is a bit more refined and smooth.
At the rear, the taillights again hint at the G35 Sedan, but they’re more squished and feature a circular bulb pattern. At the bottom of the hefty rear bumper are the dual exhaust outlets, a la the Z. Standard 17-inch wheels with P225/50VR17 tires up front with P235/50VR17 out back, and optional 18-inch wheels on “high performance tires” complete the package.
By now most enthusiasts would have figured out the G35
and new 350Z are virtual twins or very close cousins; both are based on
the FM (front mid-ship) platform and will probably share all mechanical
parts. As for size, the 112.2 inch wheelbase is the same as the sedan, but overall length is 182.2 inches, about 4 inches shorter in length than the sedan.
(The 350Z's wheelbase is 104.3 inches - thus only a 2 seater). At 54.9 inches, its also about 5 inches shorter in height. Thanks, in part, to the wide fender flares, the G35 Sport Coupe is approximately 3 inches wider at 71.5 inches.
“The G35 Sport Coupe is pure Infiniti in terms of its clean,
progressive styling,” said Steve McNabb, Vice President and GM,
Infiniti Division. “We also believe it’s going to be seen as one
of the best looking vehicles on the road come fall - sport coupe,
sport car, any category.”
Inside, its mostly G35 Sedan style here. That means the “T-shape” console remains, for better or for worse. Infiniti designates the G35 Sport Coupe as a 2+2, with sport contoured front buckets up front and sculpted fold-down seats in back. This is significant as the G35 sedan doesn’t offer fold down rear seats, only a small pass-through in the center. A 6-disc CD changer is standard, but the Bose audio system is optional. “Ultra soft leather, manufactured exclusively for (the) Infiniti G35” is optional as well. Safety wise, front air bags, front seat side-impact supplemental air bags and front and rear seat curtain side impact supplemental air bags are all standard.
As for performance, we already know the G35 Sedan can really move, so its no shock that the G35 Sport Coupe should do so as well. But there are some differences. Lets start with the engine. The sedan currently features 260bhp and 260 ft-lbs, but thanks to the new exhaust and a “higher level of engine performance,” the Sport Coupe will come packed with “275-plus” horsepower. And while the G35 Sedan comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission at this moment, the Sport Coupe will also offer a 6-speed manual tranny. Like the sedan, the coupe will come with 4-wheel multi-link independent suspension. But befitting it’s “Sport Coupe” title, it features “slightly more aggressive” turning when compared to the sedan. Ringing in all this power shouldn’t be a problem with standard Electronic Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist. Also optional will be a
high performance Brembo brake package to up the ante.
“The G35 Sport Sedan has launched to outstanding reviews and strong consumer interest, worthy of its segment leading performance, packaging and style,” said McNabb. “The new G35 Sport Coupe is going to build on that momentum, powering Infiniti to the same leadership position in the sport coupe class.”
It all goes on sale this fall. Sedan. And now Sport Coupe. Hey Infiniti, how ‘bout a Sport Wagon?
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