Infiniti G35 Coupe
The Infiniti G35 Coupe, produced from 2003 to 2007, was one of the most significant Japanese performance cars of the 2000s and played a crucial role in establishing Infiniti as a genuine competitor to BMW in the sport sedan and coupe segments. Based on Nissan's innovative FM (Front-Midship) platform — the same architecture underpinning the 350Z and Nissan Skyline V35 — the G35 Coupe offered a compelling combination of performance, style, and value.
The VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 was a masterpiece of naturally aspirated engine design. Producing 298 horsepower (revised to 298 from the original 280 hp in 2005) and 260 lb-ft of torque, the engine earned a place on Ward's 10 Best Engines list for an unprecedented 14 consecutive years. The VQ's character was defined by a broad, accessible power curve, a willingness to rev enthusiastically to its 7,000 rpm redline, and a soundtrack that was equal parts sophisticated and sporting.
The FM platform's defining feature was the engine's rearward placement — the entire engine sat behind the front axle line, contributing to a near-50:50 weight distribution that was evident in the car's handling balance. The double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension provided precise geometry control, and the chassis communicated road surface information clearly to the driver. In combination with the balanced weight distribution, the G35 Coupe delivered handling that was natural, predictable, and rewarding.
Manual transmission-equipped G35 Coupes received Brembo brakes — 4-piston calipers at the front and 2-piston units at the rear — providing excellent stopping power and a visual distinction that identified the enthusiast's choice. The 6-speed manual itself was mechanically satisfying, with reasonably precise shift action and good spacing between ratios.
The styling drew from Nissan's global design language, with flowing lines, wide haunches, and a fastback roofline that gave the coupe a muscular, athletic presence. The long hood — a consequence of the front-midship engine placement — created classic GT proportions that distinguished the G35 from its competitors.
Inside, the G35 Coupe offered a well-appointed cabin with leather seating, quality materials, and a driver-focused layout. While not quite matching the BMW 3 Series for interior refinement, the G35 offered significantly more standard equipment and, crucially, significantly more performance for a notably lower price.
The G35 Coupe was a commercial success and a critical darling, frequently winning comparison tests against the BMW 330Ci and E46 M3. Its combination of performance, value, and reliability made it one of the most popular enthusiast coupes of its generation, and the car's reputation has only grown as the years have passed.
The G35 Coupe is well-represented on the used market, making finding examples straightforward. The VQ35DE engine is extremely reliable but check for oil consumption (particularly on pre-2005 models with the gallery gasket issue), timing chain tensioner noise, and catalytic converter deterioration. Manual transmission models are more desirable and receive Brembo brakes. The 5-speed automatic is competent but removes much of the car's enthusiast appeal. Inspect for rear subframe bushing wear (causes clunking over bumps), lower control arm bushing deterioration, and worn wheel bearings. Rust is generally not a major concern on the G35. Many examples have been modified — engine and exhaust modifications are common. A stock or tastefully modified example with the 6-speed manual and clean service history represents the best value.
Built at Nissan's Tochigi plant in Japan. The G35 Coupe was essentially the Nissan Skyline Coupe (V35) for the Japanese market, with the Infiniti badge for North America and select global markets. The FM platform was shared with the Nissan 350Z, Nissan Skyline sedan, and Infiniti FX35. A mid-cycle update in 2005 brought a revised front fascia, increased power output, and additional standard equipment. The G35 was succeeded by the G37 in 2008, which used the larger VQ37VHR engine.