2003 Infiniti G35 Coupe

Pressed into full attack mode, this eminently capable corner carver tracks cleanly and smoothly to exceptionally high limits.

Confronted with even the most convoluted bit of two-lane blacktop, the G35 Coupe remains unruffled. Press it into full attack mode and this eminently capable corner carver tracks cleanly and smoothly to exceptionally high limits. When the tarmac tightens to the point where the G35 finally does start to push, a bit of judicious corrective action with the throttle—made far easier by deactivating the VDC—will let the tail slip predictably and send it scrambling off in search of the next dynamic challenge.


While performance is a clear priority, the G35 Coupe comes with the regulation magnum-load of Infiniti creature features. For starters, all versions have climate control air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, power seats, tilt steering column, cruise control, keyless remote entry, security system, 160-watt AM/FM/cassette audio package with 6-disc CD changer and satellite-radio capability, variable intermittent wipers, a walk-in device to ease access to the rear seat and front/front-side/side-curtain airbags. Spring for leather linings, and you also get heated seats and the chance to add a DVD-based navigation system, premium Bose audio system and a moonroof. The latter two items plus auto on/off headlamps, HomeLink universal transceiver, anti-glare rearview mirror and dual-zone climate control with rear ducting make up the Premium Package, also a part of our test-car's kit.

While performance is a clear priority, the G35 Coupe comes with the regulation magnum-load of Infiniti creature features.

Borrowing liberally from the G35 sedan's interior design motif, the new coupe boasts the same basis driver-friendly dash/instrumentation/control layouts. The major point of departure on models with the Performance Wheel and Tire Package is that the center console is turned out in a matte titanium finish. A technical EPA compact, the coupe offers good room up front—although the sunroof does slice into the overhead clearance. Far more annoying are the awkwardly positioned and proportioned center covered storage bin and cupholders. As might be expected, the sweeping roofline leads to a rear seat scaled to younger and/or shorter passengers. However, flipping the single piece back forward does create a flat floor and reveals a decently proportioned passthrough that opens into a 7.8 cubic-foot trunk. Although the decklid is fitted with space-optimizing scissor hinges and supported by gas struts, loading this formal cargo bay is compromised by its somewhat restrictive cutout and shallow floor that covers a space-saver spare. Fully capable of swallowing up a pair of golf bags, it's considerably less accepting of items like large, hard-shell suitcases.


Designed with real purpose and executed to near perfection, the G35 Coupe is a must-drive exercise for anyone in search of a high-performance and high-value sport-luxury GT. Packing an iron fist in a stylishly turned-out velvet glove, its a bona fide head turner with the heart of a genuine power player. (www.infiniti.com)