2002 Infiniti I35

Infiniti has increased performance throughout its 2002 lineup. (In fact, the division's parent company, Nissan, is becoming more excitement-oriented in general.) Based on the same platform as the Nissan Maxima, the I-series Infiniti has taken hold of the entry-lux market and just seems to get better with each model year.

The I35's namesake 3.5L V-6 is part of Nissan's VQ engine family, which has repeatedly been named one of the top V-6 designs in the industry.

With 2002 comes a name change, albeit a tiny one. Formerly the I30, the car is now the I35, named for the all-new V-6 engine that powers this sedan. Larger and more powerful than the previous powerplant, the new mill gives the I35 better performance across the board. This 3.5-liter, 24-valve V-6 engine has dual-overhead cams and produces 255 horsepower, 28 more than 2001. Torque is up from 217 to 246 lb.-ft., which effectively increases engine response across the rpm range.


Though the body design stays basically the same, the front grille and fascia are new, bringing the I35 closer in resemblance to the brand's flagship Q45. This family likeness is also continued with the addition of standard High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlights. Larger 17-inch tires mounted on alloy wheels only hint at the I35's abilities.

Most bodylines carry over from the '01 I30. Updates include a smoother trunk lid, jewel-like lamps and chromed exhaust tips.

While looks are very important to any buyer, it's what's underneath that makes the driving experience exciting. The I35's engine isn't the only area where Infiniti engineers made changes. The front independent-strut/coil-spring suspension and rear Multi-Link Beam system were revised to complement the increased horsepower. Both are fitted with larger stabilizer bars.


Larger front disc brakes are packaged with a standard anti-locking brake system (ABS), which also incorporates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). This system tailors braking force depending on the weight and distribution of the car's passengers and cargo. Improved safety and security through increased driver confidence is the result.