2013 Infiniti G37 Sedan - Review

The Basics:

Among compact sport sedans, the Infiniti G37 and the BMW 3-Series--and perhaps the Cadillac ATS, if early drive reports hold their merit--remain the standard-bearers of the industry. And while the all-new 3-Series is perhaps the best-rounded offering in this class yet, considering its fuel-efficient new powertrains, enthusiasts might still find the Infiniti G37 Sedan offering the right kind of seat-of-the-pants thrills. With excellent steering, dynamics, and poise, the G37 Sedan can fill family needs, to some degree, while perhaps on the weekend delivering driver satisfaction at a level that's usually relegated to track-ready sports cars.

The 2013 Infiniti G37 is now one of the older designs in this class, although its coupe-like profile, flowing sheetmetal and crisp details still look fresh. And we think it's one of the most handsome, timeless designs in this class. The G Sedan's coupelike profile, aggressive stance, and smooth contoured look add up to an sporty yet graceful form that's a pleasant departure from the lined sheetmetal in a number of other models. And inside there's really no trying to mirror German sport sedans inside; at least in the front seats, the G37 Sedan feels like a sport coupe in many respects

If you want a sport sedan that's responsive communicative, and fun to drive, the G37 Sedan remains one of the best picks. Even though several of its alternatives have recently been refreshed or redesigned, it holds the crown in sheer fun behind the wheel, due to its near-ideal weight distribution, precise and well-weighted steering, and a suspension tune that helps it feel fleet-footed. 

With the G25 model discontinued, a 328-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 in G37 models is the only engine--available with manual or automatic transmissions and with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Engine power is strong whether you go with the manual or automatic, although we add a big asterisk for refinement; for a luxury car there's a surprising level of engine noise. But this is one of the best-handling sport sedans; brakes are stout and strong; and there's a balanced, seat-of-the-pants feel to hustling the G37 through the corners.

As much as you might expect the G37 sedan to feel like a luxury model--or even see it as one--it's hard to overlook all the noise, vibration, and coarseness, from the road and from the engine, that you hear and feel in the cabin. The upgraded front seats you get in the Sport model are excellent, but back-seat space is a little tight in headroom--due to that coupe-like roofline.

For 2013, Infiniti has dropped the G25 models, as well as the G37 Sport Appearance Edition and G37 Limited Edition from the lineup, leaving just three models: G37 sedan Journey, G37 Sedan Sport 6MT, and G37x Sedan AWD. Options include an audiophile Infiniti Studio on Wheels system by Bose, and a next-generation hard-drive-based navigation system with higher-resolution screen, XM Weather, XM NavTraffic, and live rerouting, as well as Zagat restaurant ratings and reviews.

If you're a driving enthusiast, you might head straight to the G37 Sedan Sport models; they're focused toward those who like mountain roads and plan track time—so they include a Viscous Limited Slip Differential, in addition to a host of track-worthy upgrades like larger vented disc brakes, sport steering gear, W-rated performance tires, plus active head restraints and thigh extensions (which taller drivers will love) in the more aggressively bolstered sport seats.