Used 2008 INFINITI G35 Sport

2008 INFINITI G35 Overview

The 2008 INFINITI G35 represents the second generation of this popular luxury sport sedan, building upon its predecessor's success with a refined design, more potent performance, and a host of technological advancements. It offered a compelling blend of luxury, sportiness, and everyday usability, making it a strong contender in the premium segment.

Highlights

• Engine: At the heart of the 2008 G35 lies the renowned VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated powerhouse delivered a robust 298 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Known for its smooth power delivery and engaging sound, it provided brisk acceleration and confident highway passing. Power was sent to the rear wheels as standard, with an available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system for enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather. Transmission options included a responsive 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode and a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission, catering to enthusiasts.

• Safety Features: INFINITI equipped the 2008 G35 with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants:

  • Standard Front-Seat Active Head Restraints: Designed to help reduce whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions by moving forward and upward to cushion the head.
  • Standard Front-Seat and Front-Side Impact Airbags: Provide frontal and side-impact protection for the driver and front passenger.
  • Standard Roof-Mounted Curtain Side-Impact Airbags: Extend coverage to occupants in the front and rear outboard seating positions during side-impact collisions.
  • Standard Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist: EBD optimizes the distribution of braking force between the front and rear wheels, while Brake Assist enhances braking performance by detecting a panic stop and applying maximum braking force.
  • Optional Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated, promoting safer driving habits.
  • Optional Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): Maintains a preset speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys.
  • Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
  • Standard Traction Control System (TCS): Helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration, improving grip.
  • Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC): An electronic stability control system that helps prevent skids and loss of control by applying individual wheel brakes and reducing engine power when necessary.

• Trims: The 2008 G35 was offered in two primary body styles: the Sedan and the Coupe. Within these, there were several distinct trims, each offering a different emphasis:

  • G35 Sedan: This model prioritized a balance of luxury and sportiness, offering a comfortable yet engaging driving experience suitable for everyday use.
  • G35 Coupe: The Coupe version emphasized a more aggressive and sporty character with a two-door design, a more sculpted exterior, and a slightly sportier suspension tuning.
  • G35 Sedan Sport/Journey: While not always distinct trim names in the traditional sense, packages often denoted a sportier focus on the Sedan, featuring sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, and sport seats. The "Journey" designation generally indicated a more comfort-oriented package.
  • G35 Coupe Sport/Premium: Similarly, Coupe models could be found with Sport packages that enhanced handling and Premium packages that added luxury amenities.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Attractive Styling: The G35's exterior design was a significant draw, featuring sleek lines, a sporty stance, and an elegant profile that held up well over time.
  • Premium Interior: The cabin exuded a premium feel with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and an upscale ambiance. The driver-focused cockpit made for an engaging experience.
  • Infiniti's Premium Audio System: Many G35 models came equipped with impressive Bose audio systems, delivering excellent sound quality for music enthusiasts.
  • Rear-Wheel Drive Dynamics: The rear-wheel-drive platform provided the G35 with its signature balanced handling and a more engaging driving feel, a hallmark of sport sedans.

What to Expect

Ownership of a 2008 INFINITI G35 generally translates to a rewarding and engaging experience, particularly for those who appreciate a blend of luxury and performance. The driving dynamics are a significant part of its appeal, offering a confident and enjoyable ride on both winding roads and highways. The VQ35HR engine provides ample power for most situations, and the available AWD adds a layer of reassurance in adverse conditions.

Maintenance: As a luxury vehicle, the G35 typically requires premium gasoline for optimal performance and engine longevity. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks, is crucial. While INFINITI vehicles are generally known for their reliability, proactive maintenance will help prevent more significant issues down the line. Common maintenance items might include brake pad and rotor replacements, tire rotations, and checking for wear on suspension components, especially on higher-mileage examples. Be prepared for slightly higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury brands, particularly for specialized repairs or parts.

Insurance: Insurance premiums for a 2008 G35 can vary significantly based on factors like driver history, location, and chosen coverage. However, as a luxury sport sedan with a V6 engine and performance-oriented features, it may command higher insurance rates than a more basic or economy vehicle. It's advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to compare rates.

Potential Considerations

While the 2008 INFINITI G35 is a capable and enjoyable vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of a few common considerations:

• Wear and Tear on Suspension Components: Given its sporty nature, vehicles that have been driven aggressively may exhibit premature wear on suspension components such as bushings and shock absorbers. This is more likely on higher-mileage examples.
• Interior Creaks and Rattles: As with many vehicles of this age, some owners report the emergence of minor interior creaks and rattles over time, particularly in the dashboard or door panels. This is often cosmetic and does not affect the vehicle's performance or safety.
• Fuel Economy: The 3.5-liter V6 engine, while potent, is not the most fuel-efficient. Expect mileage figures that are typical for a sport sedan of its era, meaning it will likely consume more fuel than smaller, more economical cars.
• Infotainment System (Dated): While the G35 was advanced for its time, the infotainment system, especially the navigation, may feel dated compared to modern vehicles. However, most still offer Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls, and auxiliary inputs for audio.
• Potential for Transmission Issues (Automatic): While generally reliable, some automatic transmissions on the G35 have been reported to experience issues, particularly if not properly maintained. Regular fluid changes are important.

Overall Summary

The 2008 INFINITI G35 stands out as a highly competent and desirable luxury sport sedan/coupe. It offers a compelling combination of a potent V6 engine, engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics, a comfortable and premium interior, and attractive styling. Its safety features are robust for its time, and it provides a rewarding ownership experience for those seeking a blend of performance and refinement. While it may require a bit more attention to maintenance than some competitors and its technology might feel dated by today's standards, the G35 remains a strong value proposition for buyers looking for a stylish and spirited driver's car.