Infiniti G37 saloon details finally emerge for Europe

Finally, after much anticipation, Infiniti are starting to release specific details on their forthcoming European range of vehicles. Infiniti have long been established in the United States as a premium luxury car maker. Initially, due to poor marketing and some lacklustre vehicles, Infiniti struggled. That all changed however when Carlos Ghosn took over the reigns of ailing parent company Nissan. As a result, Infiniti have grown from strength to strength over the last 5-6 years and much of the success stems from its “G” range of vehicles.

Think Infiniti G, think BMW 3 series. The G35 range of sports sedans and coupes were an instant hit on their release back in 2003. It regularly took top honours in comparisons and famously beat the 3 series BMW in a number of tests. Based on Nissans FM platform, the Infiniti shared a number of main components with its Nissan 350Z cousin (no bad thing). This did not prove an issue to the American consumer where Nissan have good brand loyalty, sharing componentry with a 350Z was considered attractive as Nissan's reputation for reliability and durability would be most welcome. Besides, the cars spoke for themselves offering excellent performance, chic styling and a superb owner experience.

Europeans are arguably more discerning. Or should that be snobby? Keen to distinguish Infiniti as a stand alone brand, Infiniti have chosen to equip the European G with the all new VQ37VHR 3.7L V6 with variable valve timing to create the G37 saloon. This engine is only available in the G37 coupe stateside and the saloon range makes do with the 3.5L V6 similar to the 350Z. Curiously the G37 coupe makes 330hp in the US whereas Infiniti are only quoting around 310 PS (slightly more than a hp) for this engine in Europe. Even bigger news however is Infiniti’s new 7 speed automatic option. This unit replaces the excellent 5 speed auto in other markets. Expect this gearbox to find its way into all Infinitis over the next 12 months.

The G is also available with ATTESA E-TS all wheel drive system for those tricky ski resort roads. The Sport model comes equipped with Four-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS). Infiniti will be aiming for a 5 star NCAP score with its pedestrian friendly pop up bonnet in case of collision. Infinitis are usually full of standard kit that would usually be an option on other brands so value for money and total ownership experience are very high on Infiniti’s list for Europe. We think they have a winner.