2004 Infiniti G35 Handling, Interior, & Features

Each of the cars in our near-lux sport-sedan test approaches the classic-ride-versus-handling conundrum differently. Springing from sports-car roots, the G35's ride isn't quite as luxurious as, say, the Cadillac CTS's. Tiny, unseen bumps and road imperfections filter into the Infiniti's cabin, but we'd call them more communicative than annoying.

The cabin itself is a tad on the narrow side. Power seat controls for the driver and front passenger live on the top, inboard edge of the seat cushion, probably because it would be tough to reach between the cushion and door to operate the more traditional controls near the floor. That said, the tall, narrow G35 offers the most front head- and legroom of the cars in this test. The G carries its proportions well. Unlike the more heavy-handed surface excitement and fussy detailing of the Z-Car, the G35's design is handsome, masculine, and tasteful. Call it an Armani suit wearing Reeboks.

There are precious few gripes to speak of. The G35's climate and audio controls aren't logically arrayed or easy to operate without taking the driver's attention from the road momentarily. Another early criticism revolved around Infiniti's use of downmarket-looking "metallic" trim on the car's center stack, but a switch to more of a matte finish for 2004 helps mitigate the feeling of cheapness. Other changes for 2004 are minimal, limited to a new tire-pressure-monitoring system, standard heated side mirrors, and the addition of 17-inch wheels across the board. A more significant update is in store for the 2005 model year.

For now, what we have is an almost unbeatable benchmark, especially when you consider price and value. The G35 offers BMW 330i levels of performance, handling, and sophistication for many, many thousands fewer dollars. Among the competitors in this test, the G35 was the least expensive, even though it included a high level of standard equipment, the longest warranty, optional Bose audio system, and sport suspension.

In the Infiniti G35, it's easy to live the sport-sedan dream and have a few bucks left over. You may need the extra dough, considering the price of a grande mocha these days.