i think a decontented model, particularly of a car i like, is a great idea. But does it really cost less to make a 2.5 over a 3.7 version of the same engine? i mean a real meaningful amount in light of spending over 30 grand?
Better than: Lexus ES350
But not as good as: Infiniti G37
GRM Bang For The Buck Index: 79.50
Add another option to the ever-growing Infiniti G-series model line: the new-for-2011 G25 Sedan. As the name suggests, power comes from a 2.5-liter version of Nissan's popular VQ engine family.
The advantages? Less money, basically. The G25 starts at $32,400, almost $4000 less than the 3.7 liter-powered G35 sedan. How'd they do it? In addition to less displacement, the G25 also loses some frills, like the in-dash navigation unit. The G25 gets a little better fuel economy, too: 20/29 vs. 19/27.
Badging aside, nothing on the outside hints that this is the budget model. It's not like the G25 gets steelies with dog dish hubcaps, for example.
The new G25 line also includes three models: the "base" G25, the slightly up-market G25 Journey, and the all-wheel-drive G25x. The full line of G37 models are still available, too.
When I heard that a G25 was headed our way, I first wondered, What is it? Had the old G20 come back, but with a bigger engine? Nope, it's just a small-bore version of the G-series sedan.
Then I wondered if it would be a stone, and gladly it's not. No, it's not a fire-breathing monster, but it's not bad at all around town. Some credit has to go to that wonderful seven-speed automatic. Yes, I just used "wonderful" and "automatic" in the same sentence, but it works well here.
Pull the lever into "S," and it's pretty sporty around town. On the highway, the car is dead-quiet. Visibility is great in all directions, and it just gobbles up the highway miles.
So, who is this car aimed at? Good question. I have to assume it's not for the hardcore enthusiast, as that auto box is the only available transmission. But for those who crave the Infiniti nameplate--and are cross-shopping the Lexus IS250--this might be the answer. It's a quiet, comfortable cruiser. I just wonder if that target audience will notice/appreciate the rear-drive layout.
Fun! This car is planted, neutral, and entirely entertaining. No couch on wheels, this. Sure, the 2.5-liter V6 isn't super powerful, but it sounds good and it's plenty quick. It did not leave me wanting more, even with a full gaggle of passengers in the car.
The 7-speed automatic trans isn't half bad either. The Sport mode works well and the manumatic function, though a little slow, is appreciated. I noticed that, like Nissan's SynchroRev Match-equipped manual transmissions, this automatic will blip the throttle on downshifts before actually engaging the gear. It's actually a pretty sweet unit.
The interior is urban-professional classy and cleanly designed. Everything's comfortable and works well. A nice touch: The instrument cluster moves up and down in tandem with the adjustable steering column. Visibility is excellent compared to other cars this size. I can't find anything worth faulting.
I'm not crazy about the styling though—standard across the Infiniti brand. It's forgettable, with a bias toward ugly. Simply not something to get hot and bothered about. The gas mileage figures are good, but putting in premium fuel takes some of that advantage away. Another gripe: Tire roar is a bit intrusive at interstate speeds. It won't be bothersome or make conversation difficult, but for that reason alone it's not the perfect choice for a long cross-country haul.
It really is a wonderful compromise car though. It's nimble, comfortable, rear-wheel drive, and has plenty of room for four adults. If it were available in a stickshift, I'd start shopping for one... in about 5 years when prices are more in the range I could afford.
i think a decontented model, particularly of a car i like, is a great idea. But does it really cost less to make a 2.5 over a 3.7 version of the same engine? i mean a real meaningful amount in light of spending over 30 grand?
I realize that if they built and offered one of these with a manual transmission, I'd probably be the only customer. As it stands, I'm almost glad this car costs a bit more than my old "G". Considering Nissan has a 4 cylinder engine, also of 2.5 liters, I guess we should be glad they didn't opt to use that engine? Imagine the price difference if they had gone that route?
definitely agree with Alan Cesar on the styling
When I read 2.5L I figured the popular Nissan 4 cyl. I was surprised to see it is a smaller V6. I was hoping it was a reversal of the trend in the US where 4cyl (for better economy) and well equipped seem to be a combination that rarely exists.
Alan drove the car with geese in it? Why would you put geese in a luxury sedan?
Add another option to the ever-growing Infiniti G-series model line: the new-for-2011 G25 Sedan. As the name suggests, power comes from a 2.5-liter version of Nissan's popular VQ engine family.
The advantages? Less money, basically. The G25 starts at $32,400, almost $4000 less than the 3.7 liter-powered G35 sedan. How'd they do it? In addition to less displacement, the G25 also loses some frills, like the in-dash navigation unit. The G25 gets a little better fuel economy, too: 20/29 vs. 19/27.
Badging aside, nothing on the outside hints that this is the budget model. It's not like the G25 gets steelies with dog dish hubcaps, for example.
The new G25 line also includes three models: the "base" G25, the slightly up-market G25 Journey, and the all-wheel-drive G25x. The full line of G37 models are still available, too.
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