SpicyMikey

LOL! Alright, alright! Forget I even mentioned it

JD23

This was the point I made earlier. I think anyone who considers the $2300 difference to be a big savings should probably be looking at something cheaper than an Infiniti. Before people point to RWD as a selling point for the G25, remember that most people who care about RWD will likely be interested in the extra 110 hp.

MyCarIsntInMyWifesName

Is the G25 going to be offered as a G25x? Because that would be a smart move, and if you notice, pretty much all C300s, IS250s, 328is, et. al. are AWD that you see, at least around here.

Shift_Acura

The new 2011 Infiniti G25 Sedan shares the same exterior styling, interior detailing and chassis as the G37, but with a smaller displacement engine. The 2.5-liter V-6 produces 218 horsepower and 187 pound-feet of torque, versus the G37’s 3.7-liter V-6, which is rated at 328 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque.
The Infiniti G25 Sedan also comes with a standard seven-speed automatic transmission and is available in both rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, the latter wearing G25x badging.

Despite being the new entry-level model in Infiniti’s lineup, the G25 still comes generously equipped with standard items including leather trim, aluminum highlights, eight-way power driver’s seat and four-way power front passenger’s seat, automatic , premium audio with six speakers and XM Satellite Radio (subscription required). Other standard features include 17-inch aluminum wheels, xenon headlights, four-wheel Anti-lock Disc Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

Upgrade to the more premium G25 Journey model and you get a rear-view monitor, heated front seats and mirrors, and dual zone climate control.


http://www.motorauthority.com/blog/1...-sedan-preview

smarty666

It's interesting the introduction of the G25 right now and how it might or might not affect Nissan. I think it might have some impact on the new Maxima. I have a 2010 Maxima, and since finding out about the G25 and its price point, I've been asking myself the question, had the G25 been out at the same time as the new Maxima when I was shopping last summer, would I have still gotten the Maxima?

Its a real tough question, at least for me, b/c the Maxima in most mid and high level trims is much more money then the G25 is going to be. The main reason why I went with the Maxima over the G37 was, I wanted something with a little bit more comfort factor and better mpg, which my Max certainly has been. But, the G25 is and suppose to offer better fuel economy so in hindsight, since mpg was a consideration for me, I might have gone with the G25 instead of the Max and sacrfice the more comfortable ride and more room the Maxima has over the G37.

It will be interesting to see how the G25 effects sales of the Altima (V6 loaded version) and the Maxima since for just about the same price, in the Altima's case, or for cheaper money, in the Maxima's case, you can be in a pretty nice equipped Infiniti rather than a Nissan.

Just my two cents on the matter since I have a Nissan and a Infiniti.

I'm more interested in seeing what the epa mpg ratings for the G25 is going to be. For that kind of power reduction between the G37 and G25, it better not be just a 1mpg improvement in city/highway driving. I want to see at least a 2-3 mpg difference at the minimal.

MyCarIsntInMyWifesName

Any new release from a company this this blurred line of a class probably does eat at least a little into the sales of others, but mostly benefits the company.

I don't think the Maxima or V6 Altima need to worry, or the G37. The end result will probably be ----->

G25 models appeal to TSX buyers, perhaps both 2.4 and 3.5 buyers, people who like the bas A4s and 3s but don't want to pay $40K just to add what should be standard, as well as a few people from the Nissan crowd who want some extra zest compared to their Maxima or Altima.

Altima V6s will still appeal to people who'd like to keep the price down (2010 Altima 3.5SR still only costs $30-31K, and I bet few people buy this fully, fully loaded trim) and want to maximize their interior room, which the G does not. It's also cheap than the others to insure and maintain most likely is offered with the most incentives.

Maximas should still appeal to those who want something with a bit of a fun factor like the Altima, but aren't exactly looking for the sportiness, performance, or prestige of an Infiniti badge (the G in this instance). Most of them don't want to sacrifice comfort, luxury features, or room either, and they don't care about the drive wheels or may WANT front drive for the winter. Like the TL or ES, they want a family car with some of the luxury and exclusiveness of going upmarket from an Accord or Camry.

Three successful niches so far, and I expect this to continue, G25 or not.

Pitman

Infiniti's Entry Level Line-up should be: G25, G37, G56.

YetiTL

We all hope for a G56 but I don't see it coming, with the fuel consumption requirements and the overall brand cachet of Infiniti. A G56 would cost around 58K$CDN + Options, maybe a 48-50K$USD before taxes, freight and license. Seems like big bucks for an Infiniti and right in BMW territory. Then, Nissan/Infiniti engineers will have some work on the refinement to mate their 6MT/7AT to the 5.6 liters engine and make sure it feels really sporty without gear hunting (7AT). After that, you have to balance the chassis because of the massive 5.6 liter V8 weight, it was easier with the M56 since the car is so much longer than the G...For example, the M56x is around 4300 lbs and the M37x is around 4000lbs, that's quite a margin...

IMHO, Lexus have the same problem with the IS-F: it is so damn hard to compete against the M3 and it's hard to surpass a rival with the "economy" or "value" mantra to uphold! It would be the problem of the G56 also. Moreso since Infiniti like to praise itself as the Japanese BMW...comparaisons between the 2 will automatically be drawn and let's be honest, in the realm of 50-60K$USD cars, brand cachet and overall refinement is more important than in the 30-40k$USD category.

The G37 is a very nice all around car but it lacks some refinement. We are all happy to forget this since we know all too well the price gap between it and the 335i or xi. I've only driven the G37x coupe so maybe the 2010-2011 G37 have better interiors...

Basically, my guts agrees with you but my business sense tells me it won't happen because of product placement, especially in light of the recent timid introduction of IPL. We'll live and see, I'm eager to see what the partnership of Nissan and Mercedes will bring to the table as far as engine goes...

, YMMV!
-YetiTL

Hapa DC5

I wouldn't say the interior of my G is a step down from my 3G TL, maybe on par some plastics aren't as soft as I'd prefer.

YetiTL

Umhhh...sorry I didn't mean to offense any current G owner. While I think my TL (4G, tech/SH-AWD) provides a better interior, I can only compare to the G37X coupe I test-drove a few months ago. Also, it might be just something like the color of the interior that I disliked or something...

So I hope no one take offense in my previous post!

majin ssj eric

I like the 4g TL interior better than my G as well, though I prefer my sport seats....

Hapa DC5

Nah no offense taken. I like the 4G TL interior. It feels like a very solid well put together car. What put me off is the size and the grille. Its interior is a step ahead of my 3G that's for sure and I feel as though my G maybe equal to my 3G, definitely not better.

Hapa DC5

The sport seats definitely do their job. Maybe a little more thigh bolstering, not tighter, just a little higher.

YetiTL

I'm eager to see the 2011 G37xS coupe with the sport package. I love the seats in the TL and didn't like the regular seats in the G37x coupe. I would like to try the sport seats in the G37xS (coupe or sedan) and see how I fit. I'm 6'4'' with a good athletic fit so I need snug seats to hold my waist down in place...

I'm sure we're all eager to see the next G sedan or coupe!

smarty666

Exactly how I felt as well. 4G TL Interior and Seats while exterior styling/size !:thumbsdow

Hapa DC5

Yeah I know what you mean. I think you'll like the sport seats.

I hope the next G is great, because I really am a Honda fanboy and I enjoy my G a lot.

YetiTL

At the expense of repeating myself, we should pool the interior designers of Acura with the exterior designers of Infiniti, that could give a great result!

Yumcha

^

Hapa DC5

Seriously Acura cup holders are even better lol.

smarty666

majin ssj eric

Acura has made great interiors since the 2nd gen Legends....

mrdeeno

Right, 'cuz when i had my 2G cl-s, if my speedo ever died I can tell the speed by how much rattling was going on. And the black wood trim was the tits! How can anyone confuse BLACK WOOD with a bowling ball??? Maybe the only thing they knew about black wood was lexington steel.

Hapa DC5

lol

Yumcha

From Motor Authority...

http://www.motorauthority.com/blog/1...le-in-december

Mizouse

darn my empty bank account...

ghttf

the 01 CL-S rattled alot more than 02s & 03s. I dont even have rattles on mine

Yumcha

pttl

Now priced right with the 335, except with more standard features.

Wonder what actual selling prices will be.

Yumcha

And competition is a good thing.

Way to go, Infiniti...

Hapa DC5

Acura where's your coupe and MMC TL Type S?

majin ssj eric

I'd be intrigued by an IPL G without the ricey and hideous body kit....

Shift_Acura

Then Just put an aftermarket exhaust on your G and your pretty much there

Moog-Type-S

Too much tastic looks for that much coin.

Yumcha

The IPL is test driven by the Autoblog peeps: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/05/2...est/#continued

Have a read!

Belzebutt

^

I'll take that one.

TSX69

1st Drive: 2011 Infiniti G25

Thanks to years of dedicated work and impressive engineering, Infiniti has earned a reputation for being the "Japanese BMW." Like the German automaker, Infiniti's U.S. entries are decidedly more performance oriented, but the brand's decision to install the naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter V6 in its G Sedan had us wondering if things were changing... and not for the better.

Here's the background: For Infiniti to continue expanding its U.S. sales, the company's marketing department listened to some important feedback from their dealers. Specifically, some buyers – particularly those of the fairer persuasion – thought the standard 328-horsepower V6 in the G Sedan was just too much. Scary, even. So... no sale. After hearing what its white-knuckled customers wanted, the company decided to add a less powerful G Sedan to its U.S. lineup. Easy peasy.

The decision didn't take much soul searching or re-engineering, as Infiniti sells this exact same product in China. The G25, with Its 2.5-liter VQ engine, is otherwise nearly identical to the larger 3.5- and 3.7-liter versions we've seen here in the U.S. Additionally, fans of the Japanese domestic market version of this sedan, called the Skyline, know that the earliest version of the VQ25 engine hit the home market in 2006, and that it's no boat anchor, that's for sure.

So, for buyers who want the G Sedan but not every ounce of its sporty goodness, the VQ25VHR completes their bingo card. Compared to the former standard engine of the G Sedan line, the bore and stroke have been reduced to displace 2.5 liters, but the block is the same. Important features like double-overhead cams, four valves per cylinder and variable cam timing (in-phase intake and exhaust) are retained. The only missing modern miracle is variable intake valve lift, a feature standard on the larger engine.

Horsepower totals 218 at 6,400 rpm, with peak torque of 187 pound-feet at 4,800 rpm. Redline remains at a lofty 7,500 rpm, a figure that helps earn the motor its Very High Rev (VHR) moniker. We doubt those Rs will be enjoyed very often by timid drivers slogging their way to work, but there's always hope.

The smaller engine bolts to the same seven-speed automatic as its big brother, and all remaining driveline and chassis components are identical between the G25 and base G37 models (including brakes and tires). So close are the vehicles that curb weights tips in favor of the G25 by less than 100 pounds. Given the car's intended audience, Infiniti's six-speed manual isn't available.

The drop in displacement bumps economy up to 20 miles per gallon in the city and 29 mpg on the highway from the G37's 19/27 mpg figures. The G25's highway figure makes one wonder what it would have taken to reach a more promotable 30 mpg, or something even higher. It seems that giving up 110-horsepower would justify a greater mpg gain.

Because it basically is the G37 we've come to know and love, though, the G25 feels very familiar, except slower. How slow? To be honest, we don't know.

Driving around the tourist infested vineyards of Napa, CA didn't allow us the opportunity to perform any instrumented testing (we didn't have the equipment and the local sheriff would have frowned on the activity), but our calibrated backside estimates the G25 to be a mid-seven second 0-60 mph sprinter – about two seconds slower than a G37 fitted with an automatic. For buyers moving up from a four-cylinder compact or mid-size sedan, the G25 will still feel quick, but not as impressive – or apparently scary – as the G37 can be.

Laying into the throttle moves the car off the line smartly and the seven-speed quickly swaps one cog for another. The revs build cleanly and smoothly, but anyone who's driven a G37 will miss the 82 pound-feet of torque normally twisting the driveshaft to rocket you from apex to apex.

Braking, steering and handling performance remain pure Infiniti – always impressing – and in the G25, driving to preserve momentum becomes the challenge. The 17-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in all-season rubber are capable playmates, gripping with eager tenacity.

Behind the wheel, the be-buttoned, be-wheeled and otherwise be-dazzled dash interface takes some getting used to. Give it an hour (while parked) and you'll get the hang of it. What won't ever be acceptable is the center LCD. The G25 gets a low-resolution display that lacks contrast and clarity. Glare is also a major problem, and for some inexplicable reason, the navigation package that's optional on the G37 isn't offered. Too bad, because its upgraded screen is crisp and bright.

This engine and electronic decontenting will set you back $30,950 – a price drop of about $2,800 from last year's base G37 sedan, already recognized as a winning value proposition. Two additional G25 models are on sale now: the G25 Sedan Journey ($32,350) and the G25x Sedan AWD ($33,950). The base price includes standard features such as Xenon headlights, leather seating, eight-way power driver's seat, automatic climate control and a comprehensive electronic stability control system, so while the engine might not have as much pep, there's plenty of luxury to keep your mind off easy-does-it acceleration.

So how does the 2011 G25 compare to the "always the benchmark" BMW 3-Series? The base 2010 328i retails for $33,150, and while BMW has the power edge with 230 horsepower without a meaningful difference in mpg (28 highway), and even with the Value Package BMW now includes at no extra cost, the G25 still bests the Bimmer on the features front, offering things such as an extra gear in the transmission and Xenon lamps for more than $2,000 less.

Apparently, Infiniti's value proposition even works in the case of slower motion.

alex2364

I don't like how they made the G25 basically a stripped model. You can't get navigation or any of the fancy features compared to the G37. :thumbsdow

MyCarIsntInMyWifesName

+1

Moog-Type-S

Not much of a price drop from a G37.....a joke of an MPG increase for such a power loss....no navy, no top of the line features.

Why was this car built?

pttl

Because according to the ladies....328 hp is "scary".

For the $2800 difference...get the 37.