2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan Preview

Introduction

Infiniti's G Sedan was launched in 2003 as a powerful rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sports sedan. It was positioned as an alternative to the BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS and Audi A4. In contrast to the competition, the Infiniti sedan not only offered more interior space, but it also trumped the others with Nissan's powerful VQ-series 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The second-generation G35 Sedan arrived in 2007. Compared to its predecessor, it was larger, more powerful, and even more luxurious. The V-6 engine in the new model had been refined for additional smoothness, efficiency and horsepower, but it still displaced 3.5 liters, so the model retained its "G35" moniker. Now sharing the powerful 3.7-liter V-6 engine with the Infiniti G37 Coupe, amid several other enhancements, the 4-door sedan has been re-introduced as the "G37 Sedan" for 2009. The new model will be in showrooms in September 2008.

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Model Lineup

The 2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan lineup will include four models: G37, G37 Journey, G37S Sport 6MT, and the G37x AWD. The G37 and G37 Journey are the standard models. The G37S Sport 6MT is the sportiest model, and it is only available with a 6-speed manual transmission. The G37x is the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version designed for inclement weather. All models feature power leather-appointed seating with aluminum interior trim as standard equipment. Automatic climate control (with micro-filtration), power windows, power door locks, and Infiniti's Intelligent Key are also standard fare. The audio system offers 6 speakers with AM/FM, RDS, CD player, MP3, and an auxiliary input jack. XM satellite radio is standard. The Premium package includes options such as a power moonroof, Bose premium audio, heated seats, and auto-dimming mirrors. The Navigation package adds Infiniti's hard-drive navigation, the 9.3GB Music Box, and a RearView monitor. The Sport package includes a limited-slip rear differential, magnesium transmission paddle shifters, and upgraded wheels and tires. Stand-alone options include the power moonroof, rear spoiler, and African rosewood interior trim.

Hardware

The 2009 Infiniti G37 received a significant boost in horsepower for the new model year. Replacing the 3.5-liter powerplant is Nissan's "VVEL" 3.7-liter V-6 engine. Shared with the Infiniti G37 Coupe, it is rated 328 hp under the hood of the sedan. It is mated to a new 7-speed automatic transmission or an optional, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. The standard driveline is RWD, with the G37x AWD models boasting Infiniti's acclaimed ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) AWD system. Fuel economy figures have not been released for the new models as of writing.

The 2009 Infiniti G37 Sport 6MT Sedan models feature a standard, close-ratio lightweight 6-speed manual transmission. All other models, including the AWD Sedan, feature a new 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode via paddle shifters, downshift rev matching, quick-shift mode, and Adaptive Shift control. The suspension on the sedan is of a 4-wheel independent design with a double-wishbone front and a rear multi-link, both ends featuring stabilizer bars. The steering is rack-and-pinion, with vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assist. New for 2009 are available Sport Brakes with larger rotors and more powerful pistons to increase the sedan's braking capacity. The G37 Sedan offers a Rear Active Steering system on the Journey and Sport models. With the system activated, the rear wheels are designed to turn up to one degree to add stability during turns and cornering. Braking technology includes standard 4-wheel vented discs with anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist.

Technology

All 2009 G37 sedans will be painted with Infiniti's innovative Scratch Shield paint. The technology actually employs a clearcoat that covers the color layer of paint. Compared to traditional automotive clearcoat, Scratch Shield is more scratch-resistant to help a vehicle retain its like-new appearance over time, the maker says. While normal clearcoats tend to accumulate small nicks and scratches in their surface as the vehicle ages-giving the paint a worn or hazed look-the Scratch Shield paint will self-repair light damage to restore the paint to like-new condition in about a week.

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• See 2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan Pictures
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