First Test: 2007 Infiniti G35
Chassis: The second-generation front-mid (FM) platform architecture underpinning the new G is shared in part with the new M and boasts structural reinforcements around the engine and rear floor area. Along with three times as much laser welding and 16 percent more spot welds, overall body stiffness improves by 40 percent. Single-pivot lower control arms in front replace the previous model's twin lower links. Sport models get stiffer rear shocks, beefier front brake calipers, and larger 13-inch rotors all around (up from 12.6/12.1-inch front/rear). Base 17-inch tires bump up from 215s to 225s, while the 18-inch upgrade is now a size smaller in front and larger in back than the old all-around 235/45R18s.
A new Active Steering package can be added to Sport models and features a planetary gearset on the steering shaft (like BMW's), capable of varying the ratio between 12.0:1 and 18.5:1, and a rear-wheel steering system that induces up to one degree of rear steer. The system will stand alone, priced at around $1200, and includes stiffer shocks at all four corners. We sampled it on the road course at Lime Rock, Connecticut, and on nearby twisty roads and detected no unnatural changes in weighting, just a reduction in the required steering input by 20 to 50 degrees in most turns and perhaps a bit less tendency toward understeer.
Four flavors of Infiniti G35 will be available for 2007: base, Journey (which isn't badged as such, but gets goodies like dual-zone climate controls, rear A/C vents, and a power passenger seat), G35x AWD (using the same ATTESA E-TS electronically actuated center differential system), and G35S for "sport" (unique bumpers and side sills, aluminum pedals, sport seats with thigh support, a sport steering wheel, and sport-tuned stability-control programming, in addition to the big tires and chassis mods described above).
Recap: The new G35 taking on BMW this November will boast more interior and trunk space, more techno toys, an even wider lead in weight-to-power ratio (now 1.8 pounds per horsepower, up from 1.2), closer gear spacing, and a conservative restyle. Does it have the right stuff to win back the world welterweight sport-sedan title? Turn the page.