2008 Infiniti G37S Part 1 of 3: Design

If pressed for a one-sentence design review of Infiniti's performance luxury coupe, one could simply state that the G37S is a gorgeous car, period. Of course I can't just leave it at that, so let's get into it...

We first got a glimpse of what the second generation G coupe would look like when the gorgeous Infiniti Coupe Concept made its debut at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. The production G37 followed at the 2007 New York Auto Show and it didn't disappoint. If good looks alone guaranteed sales success, this would be among the best selling cars in the world.

It just looks great from every angle. Where the first generation G coupe had a slightly odd look in profile, the new car is perfectly proportioned. This is thanks in no small part to the dimensional differences between the coupe and the 4-door. The coupe is wider than the sedan by just under two inches, and lower by just over two inches. It's also slightly shorter, resulting in its great proportions.

One element of the exterior styling of the G37S that is less than successful in my opinion are the lower openings on the front of the car.

The three openings are nicely balanced and appropriately aggressive - no issues there. And while the two outer openings are beautifully sculpted, they are completely blocked off and fake. This reeks of design dishonesty and flies in the face of form following function. The non-S version of the G37 coupe has two openings that are at least partially functional, while also mimicking the look of the Coupe Concept. It's a more successful design because it's both unique and an evolution of the front graphics of the first generation G coupe. Other companies also fake intakes and vents, but you'd expect more from a brand like Infiniti.

The most successful view of the G37S is from the side, where we see a dynamic wedged profile that is both athletic and extremely elegant. Interestingly, this means that color choice will be an important part of the buying process with this car as color can change the G37's personality more than most cars.

From the rear, we find more evolutionary styling based on the first G coupe. Once again Infiniti has raised the bar, as the subtle surfacing - especially around the top of the trunk - is more upscale and sophisticated than on the original G35.

The details are expertly executed and include everything from the door handle pockets, to the exhaust outlets and diffuser, to the gorgeous 19-in. ten-spoke aluminum alloy wheels that finish off the car perfectly.

In a class that puts an emphasis on style over practicality, the G37S and its beautiful sheetmetal are a very seductive offering.

Watch the video
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

Infiniti G37S

Performance
- Acceleration: Torque-rich VQ37 pulls well from anywhere on the tach - flat torque curve means it doesn't feel a quick as it is
- Handling: Good compromise between comfort and sport, leaning toward comfort - but limited-slip differential (LSD) means you can get sporty too...
- Braking: No longer supplied by Brembo, the brakes feel great nonetheless

Design
- Exterior: Perfect proportions and subtle surfacing produce one of the best looking cars on the road 
- Interior: A near match for the excellent exterior design - great textured aluminum accents

Utility
- Comfort: Very spacious coupe... for the front passengers
- Space: Using the rear seats as storage space means there's plenty of room

Safety
- Dynamics: Very predictable chassis has no bad habits - perhaps a bit too softly sprung? 
- Technology: Excellent stability control system and all the safety goodies you'd expect

Value
- Price: More content as standard equipment than its competitors and nearly all of the performance
- Mileage: V6 does well when driven with a light throttle foot

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: The best (and only) Japanese performance luxury coupe moves you with its gorgeous looks
- Fun to spank: Willing partner on track with its LSD, but not really at its best when driven hooligan style

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Front engine / Rear wheel drive
Engine: 3.7 liter, V6
Power (SAE): 330 hp @  7000 rpm
Torque: 270 lbs-ft @  5200 rpm
Redline: 7500 rpm
Gearbox: 6 speed manual
Curb Weight: 3670 lbs.
0-60 mph: 5.4 sec.
1/4 mile: 14.1 sec. @ 102 mph
Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
Mileage: 17 city / 26 highway
Base Price: $36,200
Competitors: BMW 335i, Mercedes Benz CLK350, Audi A5