Infiniti G37x: Complete Review And Buyer’s Guide

ST
Written by
Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

The Infiniti G37x represents a compelling entry into the premium coupe segment, combining Japanese engineering excellence with accessible luxury pricing. As an all-wheel-drive variant of Infiniti’s acclaimed G37 lineup, this model addresses a specific market niche—drivers seeking performance capability without sacrificing traction benefits during adverse weather. The G37x emerged as a response to strong customer demand, with European markets showing particular enthusiasm for the all-wheel-drive configuration, leading Infiniti to establish it as a dedicated model variant rather than merely an optional feature.

Engine Performance and Powertrain Configuration

At the heart of the G37x lies a robust 3.7-liter V6 engine, shared with Nissan’s performance-oriented 370Z platform. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 330 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, delivering performance metrics comparable to vehicles positioned at higher price points. The engine exhibits a distinctive character, emitting a gruff bark during cold starts that evolves into an almost V8-like metallic snarl under aggressive acceleration.

The transmission landscape varies by market and model year. All-wheel-drive G37x models utilize a seven-speed automatic transmission equipped with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, enabling manual control when desired. In testing conditions, this automatic transmission demonstrated competent behavior during normal driving situations, though performance driving revealed some limitations. The transmission occasionally exhibits delayed response to downshift requests and can produce blurred shift quality under spirited driving. Rear-wheel-drive variants available in certain markets offer a six-speed manual option, providing enthusiasts with direct drivetrain engagement.

Acceleration figures reflect the engine’s substantial output. Zero to 60 mph capability ranges from 5.4 to 6.0 seconds depending on body style and specific testing conditions, with elevation and ambient temperature affecting performance. While not record-setting by contemporary standards, these figures demonstrate competitive positioning within the luxury coupe segment.

All-Wheel Drive Dynamics and Traction Characteristics

The all-wheel drive system distinguishes the G37x from its rear-wheel-drive siblings and represents one of its most compelling engineering achievements. Rather than compromising the car’s inherent sportiness, the AWD configuration maintains the sharp handling characteristics expected from Infiniti’s G-series platform. Engineers achieved this balance through meticulous system tuning, ensuring that understeer—a common trait in all-wheel-drive vehicles—remains remarkably moderate.

The all-wheel-drive system weight penalty of approximately 150 pounds has minimal detrimental effects on overall dynamics. While this additional mass extends the 70-to-0 mph braking distance by approximately 11 feet compared to rear-wheel-drive models, the enhanced launch traction more than compensates through improved acceleration capability. The system’s sophistication becomes apparent during aggressive driving, where the chassis responds to driver inputs with precision traditionally associated with rear-wheel-drive sports cars. This engineering accomplishment earned particular praise from professional reviewers, who noted that the AWD implementation feels transparent during spirited driving while providing genuine winter weather benefits.

Handling Characteristics and Suspension Dynamics

The G37x’s handling profile reflects Infiniti’s commitment to delivering engaging driving dynamics within a luxury context. The steering system strikes a careful balance, exhibiting slight on-center numbness at parking speeds while providing sharp, communicative feedback at higher velocities. This characteristic improves as drivers engage the chassis more aggressively, rewarding intentional input while filtering out minor road imperfections during relaxed cruising.

Body control demonstrates exceptional management throughout the driving envelope. The sport suspension geometry, combined with a limited-slip rear differential on performance-oriented trim levels, creates a chassis that responds immediately to driver commands. Lateral grip testing revealed skidpad performance of 0.83g on all-season rubber, respectable considering the compromise inherent in all-season tire selection. The suspension compliance remains supple even with performance-oriented spring and damping rates, ensuring that aggressive driving doesn’t translate to a punishing ride during extended highway cruising.

The suspension design philosophy prioritizes passenger comfort without surrendering responsiveness. Highway driving delivers pleasant refinement, with the chassis absorbing surface irregularities intelligently. The sport suspension tuning, despite its firmer calibration compared to standard setups, avoids the harshness that occasionally plagues vehicles with overly aggressive spring rates.

Interior Technology and Comfort Features

The G37x’s cabin presents a thoughtfully assembled luxury environment incorporating multiple technological conveniences. Premium trim levels feature sophisticated navigation systems with substantial storage capacity—up to 30GB hard drive systems in certain markets—allowing comprehensive map databases and multimedia content. The infotainment integration includes intuitive controls that prioritize user accessibility, a hallmark of Infiniti’s interior design philosophy.

Audio systems reflect premium positioning, with 11-speaker Bose sound systems providing quality reproduction across various music genres. Climate control systems incorporate intelligent features such as automatic temperature regulation and zone-specific settings. Driver assistance technologies available on higher trim levels include intelligent cruise control systems that monitor preceding vehicle speeds and automatically adjust throttle response.

Seating arrangements balance support with long-distance comfort. Leather-accented surfaces appear throughout the cabin, with quality material selection elevating the perceived value proposition. The driving position accommodates various body types through comprehensive adjustment mechanisms, including power lumbar support on premium models.

Fuel Economy Considerations

Fuel consumption figures reflect the reality of operating a performance-oriented V6 engine within a premium coupe package. EPA estimates for G37x models register 18 mpg in city driving and 25 mpg during highway operation, with combined figures reaching 20 mpg. These numbers represent reasonable efficiency for naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines, though contemporary standards have evolved significantly. Real-world consumption depends substantially on driving methodology, with spirited driving noticeably reducing achieved mileage figures.

Exterior Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The G37x presents a visually distinctive profile that balances aggression with refinement. The coupe body style accentuates the platform’s athletic proportions, with subtle design cues suggesting performance capability without resorting to excessive visual drama. The profile conveys sophistication and presence without reaching into flamboyant territory, appealing to buyers prioritizing understated elegance.

Design details include distinctive headlight treatments and a carefully sculpted body side that emphasizes the vehicle’s low-slung stance. The rear styling incorporates twin tailpipes—a visual nod to the performance-oriented engineering beneath—and balanced proportions that avoid awkward overhangs. Optional 18-inch and 19-inch wheel designs accommodate various aesthetic preferences while maintaining the overall design coherence.

Comparative Market Positioning

Within the luxury coupe segment, the G37x occupies an interesting positioning. Performance metrics approach those of significantly more expensive European competitors, delivering comparable horsepower and acceleration figures at notably lower price points. Japanese reliability reputation combines with luxury appointments to create value proposition advantages over certain German alternatives.

The all-wheel-drive capability particularly distinguishes the G37x from rear-wheel-drive competitors in markets experiencing seasonal weather variations. Buyers in northern climates appreciate the all-weather capability without sacrificing the sharp driving dynamics that define the coupe experience.

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

Infiniti vehicles historically demonstrate solid durability characteristics, with the G37x sharing proven mechanical platforms with the successful 370Z sports car. Component quality and assembly standards reflect Nissan-Infiniti’s engineering heritage, providing owners with reliability confidence. Maintenance costs remain reasonable compared to European luxury brands, with parts availability and service network accessibility supporting affordable ownership experiences.

The all-wheel-drive system complexity introduces slightly elevated maintenance considerations compared to rear-wheel-drive alternatives, though professional reviews suggest the added costs remain manageable within the context of premium vehicle ownership.

Driving Experience Summary

The G37x delivers a cohesive driving experience that satisfies multiple objectives simultaneously. Buyers seeking performance-oriented entertainment receive engaging steering feedback and responsive handling characteristics. Those prioritizing comfort and technology find sophisticated systems thoughtfully integrated throughout the cabin. The all-wheel-drive system transparently extends capability during challenging weather while preserving the rear-wheel-drive driving character expected from performance-focused coupes.

Acceleration capability provides genuine entertainment during spirited driving, while the transmission’s paddle shifters enable manual control for enthusiasts seeking additional engagement. The engine’s distinctive sound signature adds auditory enjoyment during acceleration phases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes the G37x from standard G37 models?

The primary distinction involves the all-wheel-drive system standard on G37x variants, contrasting with rear-wheel-drive configuration on base G37 models. The all-wheel-drive adds approximately 150 pounds of curb weight while improving traction characteristics, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Does the automatic transmission limit driving enjoyment?

The seven-speed automatic performs competently during normal driving and occasional spirited driving, with paddle shifters enabling manual control. However, performance enthusiasts might find the transmission’s response timing slightly deliberate during aggressive driving maneuvers.

How does G37x handling compare to rear-wheel-drive competitors?

Engineering achieves remarkable transparency in the all-wheel-drive system, allowing the G37x to deliver sharp handling characteristics traditionally associated with rear-wheel-drive sports cars while maintaining traction benefits of all-wheel drive.

What fuel economy should owners expect?

EPA estimates register 18 city/25 highway/20 combined mpg. Real-world consumption depends substantially on driving methodology, with aggressive driving significantly reducing achieved figures.

Does the added weight affect performance significantly?

The all-wheel-drive system adds weight but offsets this through improved launch traction. While braking distances increase modestly, acceleration capability and overall dynamics remain compelling.

Final Assessment

The Infiniti G37x successfully balances multiple automotive objectives, delivering genuine performance credentials alongside luxury amenities and all-weather capability. The 330-horsepower V6 engine provides satisfying acceleration, while the all-wheel-drive system enhances traction without compromising the engaging driving experience. Technology integration throughout the cabin reflects premium positioning, with material quality and design execution supporting the luxury positioning.

For buyers seeking a distinctive alternative to conventional European luxury coupes, the G37x merits serious consideration. The combination of Japanese engineering heritage, accessible pricing, capable all-wheel-drive dynamics, and genuine performance credentials creates a compelling value proposition in the premium coupe segment.

References

  1. 2009 Infiniti G37x Coupe – Car and Driver — Car and Driver. 2009-04-15. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a16579116/2009-infiniti-g37x-coupe-instrumented-test/
  2. Week at the Wheel: Infiniti G37x — Car Enthusiast. 2010-05-01. https://www.carenthusiast.com/reviews/article/4738/-/2010-Infiniti-G37x/Week+at+the+wheel+-+x+GT+Premium+automatic.html
  3. 2012 Infiniti G37xS Road Test and Review — Autoweb. 2012-06-15. https://www.autoweb.com/2012-infiniti-g37xs-road-test-and-review
  4. Ten Important Facts You Need to Know Before Buying the 2011 Infiniti G37x — TFLcar. 2011-05-20. https://tflcar.com/2011/05/review-ten-important-facts-you-need-to-know-before-buying-the-2011-infiniti-g37x/
  5. 2009 INFINITI G37 Review & Ratings — Edmunds. 2009-03-20. https://www.edmunds.com/infiniti/g37/2009/review/
  6. Review: 2012 Infiniti G37x Sedan — Matt Maran Motoring (YouTube). 2022-09-10.
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