Used 2006 INFINITI G35 Base

2006 INFINITI G35 Overview

The 2006 INFINITI G35 represented a significant step forward in the luxury sport sedan and coupe segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, refined luxury, and sophisticated styling. Building on the success of its predecessor, the 2006 model year saw the G35 continue to impress buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than many of its German and Japanese rivals, without the typically associated premium price tag.

Highlights

• Engine: At the heart of the 2006 G35 is the legendary VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated powerhouse delivered a robust 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque in the sedan, and a slightly more potent 298 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque in the coupe. Known for its smooth operation, thrilling acceleration, and characteristic V6 growl, the VQ35DE provided a visceral and engaging driving experience.
• Safety Features: The 2006 G35 was equipped with a suite of standard and available safety features designed to protect occupants. Standard features typically included:
  • Front-seat Active Head Restraints: These move upward and forward during a rear-end collision, reducing the distance between the occupant's head and the headrest, thus mitigating whiplash injuries.
  • Front and Side-Impact Airbags: Standard front airbags offered frontal protection, while front side-impact airbags provided torso protection in side collisions.
  • Roof-Mounted Curtain Side-Impact Airbags: These deployed from the roofline to protect the heads of front and rear outboard occupants during side impacts.
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during heavy braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
  • Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): Optimizes brake pressure between the front and rear wheels based on load and braking conditions, improving stopping distances and stability.
  • Brake Assist (BA): Detects a panic braking situation and automatically applies maximum braking force, even if the driver doesn't press the pedal hard enough.
  • Available features often included Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), which is INFINITI's electronic stability control system, helping to prevent skids and loss of traction by selectively applying brakes and reducing engine power.
• Trims: The 2006 G35 was offered in two distinct body styles, each with its own nuances:
  • G35 Sedan: Focused on a balance of luxury and sportiness, the sedan provided four doors for practicality while retaining the engaging performance and refined interior.
  • G35 Coupe: The two-door coupe version emphasized a more aggressive, sport-oriented design and driving dynamics. It often featured slightly higher horsepower figures and a more focused suspension setup for a heightened driving experience.
• Other Notable Aspects:
  • Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Standard RWD contributed significantly to the G35's agile handling and sporty character, providing a classic sports sedan/coupe feel.
  • Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD): For enhanced traction and all-weather capability, an AWD system was available on sedan models.
  • Premium Interior: The G35's interior was a strong suit, offering comfortable and supportive leather-appointed seating, high-quality materials, and an intuitive layout. Available features like a premium Bose audio system, navigation, and a sunroof further enhanced the luxury experience.
  • Sharp Styling: Both the sedan and coupe boasted sleek and timeless exterior designs that still hold up well today, with clean lines and an athletic stance.

What to Expect

Owning a 2006 INFINITI G35 generally involves an experience characterized by engaging driving dynamics and a touch of accessible luxury. Expect the car to feel responsive and eager to please on winding roads, with a potent engine that provides ample acceleration for everyday driving and spirited moments. The ride quality is typically well-balanced, offering enough compliance for comfortable daily commuting while still maintaining a firm connection to the road.

• Maintenance: As with any performance-oriented luxury vehicle of this era, regular maintenance is crucial. The VQ35DE engine is generally reliable but benefits from consistent oil changes with the correct specification oil, filter replacements, and attention to cooling system components. Spark plug replacement, timing belt (though this engine uses a timing chain, which generally has a longer lifespan but still requires inspection), and fluid flushes (brake, power steering, coolant) at recommended intervals are important. Owners should be aware that some components, particularly suspension bushings and CV joints on RWD models, may show wear over time and require replacement.
• Insurance: Insurance costs for a 2006 G35 can vary significantly based on your location, driving record, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim and options. As a luxury sport sedan/coupe with a powerful V6 engine, it may command slightly higher insurance premiums than a more basic commuter car. It's advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers once you've identified a specific vehicle.

Potential Considerations

While the 2006 G35 offers a compelling package, potential buyers should be aware of a few common considerations:

• Oil Consumption: Some VQ35DE engines, particularly as they age, can exhibit increased oil consumption. Regular checks of the oil level are essential, and it's wise to inquire about the maintenance history regarding oil changes and any known consumption issues.
• Oil Gallery Gasket (Manual Transmission Sedans): A known issue on certain manual transmission G35 sedans from this era is the potential failure of the oil gallery gasket. This can lead to a loss of oil pressure and potentially severe engine damage. It's important to check service records or have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a mechanic knowledgeable about this specific model if considering a manual sedan.
• Suspension Wear: Like many vehicles with a sporty suspension setup, components such as bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers can wear over time, especially on higher-mileage examples. Signs of wear can include clunking noises over bumps or a less precise feel in the steering.
• Interior Wear: While the interior materials are generally of good quality, some common wear points can include the driver's seat bolster, the leather on the steering wheel and shift knob, and potential fading or delamination of interior plastic trim pieces, especially in sun-exposed climates.
• Infotainment System (if equipped): While the available navigation and audio systems were quite advanced for their time, they may feel dated by modern standards. Some units can also develop display issues or disc read errors.

Overall Summary

The 2006 INFINITI G35 remains a highly desirable used luxury sport sedan and coupe, celebrated for its potent V6 engine, engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and upscale interior. It offers a compelling alternative to more established European luxury brands, providing a potent blend of performance and comfort at a more accessible price point. While potential buyers should be aware of common age-related wear and specific mechanical considerations, a well-maintained G35 can still deliver an enjoyable and rewarding ownership experience.