Infiniti G37 a Distinctive and Sophisticated Sedan
October 2, 2008 – 6:32 am by Ivan ChongPages: 1 2
There are three main versions of the G37 Sedan on offer – the well equipped G37, the more luxurious G37 GT with leather upholstery, and the sport-oriented G37S with 4-Wheel Active Steer, a Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) and sports suspension settings among other changes. All-Wheel Drive option is also offered on G37 and G37 GT versions.
Infiniti G37 a Distinctive and Sophisticated Sedan
Exterior styling
With its long bonnet, long wheelbase and short overhangs, the G37 blurs the boundaries between a four-door saloon and coupé. As well as providing a classic silhouette, the long bonnet is a visual reference to the G37’s ‘front midship’ engine location: the compact V6 is mounted in the front of the car, but as low and as far back as possible, with most of the block behind the front axle line. The result lowers the centre of gravity and helps to deliver the optimum front to rear weight distribution.
The low nose flows, via a curving roofline, to a high trunk to provide a feeling of motion even when the car is static. This is accentuated by a strong rising beltline, the flowing C-pillar and the muscular rear wheel arches.
To the front, the L-shaped headlamps and double-arch grille – complete with sculpted “twisted” horizontal blades inspired by traditional Japanese swords – have become Infiniti design elements helping to give the brand a distinctive face. At the rear the distinctive wraparound LED tail-lights are another Infiniti signature design. A neat, upswept spoiler integrated into the boot lid contributes to zero lift aerodynamics over the rear axle and completes the sporting look.
The overall effect combines obvious sporting potential with an understated sophistication that together capture the essence of the Infiniti brand.
Interior environment
The G37’s interior is an environment designed to appeal to driver and passengers alike. Quality materials provide the warmth and comfort expected in a premium car, yet the driver’s quarters have a ‘scooped-out’ design to emphasise the concept of a cockpit in direct contrast to the open, spacious design of the passenger area.
The dashboard and centre console adopts Infiniti design DNA with a ‘double wave’ upper section linked to a central vertical spine for a feeling of solidity. With roots in Japanese design, ‘Washi-style’ aluminium accents can be found through the cabin. Washi is a form of elegant Japanese handmade paper and textured aluminium trim inserts can be found on the centre console, the instrument binnacle and the door panels. Automatic versions have the option of African Rosewood inserts.
At 2850mm, the wheelbase is longer than its key rivals which translates directly into class-leading interior space for rear passengers. The rear seats can also be reclined, hence adding even more comfort to the latter.
Engine and powertrain
Infiniti’s latest 3.7-litre V6 is a potent, high revving, 24-valve twin cam unit producing 235 kW at 7,000 rpm (320 PS) and an impressive 360 Nm of torque at 5,200 rpm.
Constructed from lightweight aluminium, the engine features a two-part bed-plate construction which is more rigid than a single piece casting for reduced vibration levels. It also permits sustained use at higher revs: the V6 is red-lined at 7,500rpm.
The VQ37 unit features VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology to optimise efficiency and, in turn, the balance between power, response, fuel efficiency and emissions.
By continually altering valve lift and therefore the quantity of air in the combustion chamber it provides a more powerful combustion phase to increase torque and power. Best of all, as the valves control the intake rather than a conventional butterfly, response to throttle inputs is immediate.
The result is a more efficient combustion to the benefit of fuel economy and lower emissions compared to standard valve lift systems
Precise mapping of the engine control unit (ECU), meanwhile, helps the engine provide a progressive ‘swell’ of power and torque, providing a ‘building wave’ of acceleration rather than a peaky power delivery.
It delivers a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) with 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) taking 5.8 seconds (on M/T version). Fuel economy over the combined cycle is 10.5 l/100kms (26.9 mpg) while the Sedan has a CO2 figure of 249 g/km. The engine is fully compliant with Euro 5 emission level requirements.
In keeping with the performance profile of a sports sedan, Infiniti engineers have developed a special aural soundtrack for the car. Equal length tubular exhaust manifolds and a symmetrical exhaust and silencer system have allowed the engineers to create a linear sound with a good balance between low and high frequency notes.
As well as a smooth shifting six-speed manual transmission, the G37 is available with a new seven-speed automatic option with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and magnesium paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel.
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