2009 Infiniti G37x: the Oppositelock Review

"dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford" (dtg11)
08/12/2019 at 09:15 • Filed to: None

2009 is the first year of the second generation of the now renamed but popular G37x. It helped established Infiniti as a brand that was actually a true competitor to BMW, not just an expensive badge. After owning mine for just under 2 months and 1200 miles, how do I like it?

( Full disclosure : Infiniti wanted me to drive the G37x so badly they had sold this one to someone who owned it for four years and 50,000 miles, when it was then sold to a local attorney who owned it until July of this year and put 130,000 miles on it. He then listed it on eBay, where it failed to sell. After a month, he put it on Craigslist and dropped the price from $5500 to $4300. Three days after first looking at it, it was mine for $4,000.)

For those who don’t know, the G37 was Infiniti’s small sedan, designed to compete in the same category as the Lexus IS, BMW 3-Series, and Mercedes C-Class. It was available as a sedan or coupe. The sedan, which is what I own and will be the subject of the review, was available as RWD or AWD, with a manual offered on the RWD Sport model. All other models came with a 7-speed automatic as standard.

Exterior: 8/10

Despite being a 12 year old design, I think the G37 has aged extremely well. I won’t lie, it doesn’t look brand new, but it doesn’t look 10 years old either. It has a far more refined design than the first generation and honestly looks far more restrained and tasteful than more modern luxury cars. Minor gripes are that the headlights look like they stick out a little far from certain angles. Other thing is that it has too many fake vents for my taste (which is any fake vents). Overall, however, an excellent design by Infiniti.

Interior: 7/10

Nothing too much to say here, it’s standard entry level luxury car. It has touchscreen navigation, seat heaters, soft-touch plastic, leather, brushed aluminum. Overall, very nice, if somewhat revealing of it’s age. The qwality of materials is very nice and definitely feels solid and well built. 10 years and 180,000 miles later, there is no squeaks or rattles. I’m pretty well pleased, and it’s a nice place to be.

Not my picture

Acceleration: 8/10

Both the high point and low point of G37 ownership is the VQ37 engine. It’s a very high-revving (7600 rpm redline) 3.7 V6 that produces 328HP and 267 lb-ft of torque. That, coupled with AWD, is more than enough to hustle the 3800lbs sedan to 60mph in 5.2 seconds. That surpasses even more expensive competition from the time, and even competes modern entry level luxury sedans (e.g. 2017 BMW 330i, 0-60 in 5.4 seconds). However, the downside is that it sounds like a garbage disposal.

A very fast garbage disposal.

Braking: 8/10

It’s excellent, although helped in part by the fact that I just got new pads and rotors on all 4 corners. It’s strong, firm, and consistent. I haven’t taken it on a track or anything like that, but even hard braking on the road it’s confidence-inspiring and exactly what you want.

Ride: 7/10

The ride is very comfortable, although slightly firm. It’s mostly smooth, although it can be upset by small, jarring bumps. It soaks up larger potholes and bumps with ease. The seats are nicely padded and bolstered, which helps a lot. Still, on the firmer side of the comfort spectrum.

Handling: 7/10

It’s very good. Firm, responsive, and communicative. It definitely could be quicker, especially when compared to my TSX. I’m not sure if that’s due to the fact that it’s AWD or due to the larger sidewall. It’s fairly grippy, although it’s no lightweight at 3800 pounds and the grand touring tires don’t help. It’s still very sporty and feels like a true sport-luxury sedan. It also feels extremely stable and secure, even at highway speeds and above.

Gearbox: 6/10

The G37x is equipped with a 7-speed automatic that is both great and awful. The gearing is short and fast, helping acceleration. It responds to throttle inputs very quickly and is super responsive. It has a sport mode, but I’ve never had a reason to use it, simply because it responds so well in “normal” mode.I was expecting it to gear hunt more than it does, so props to Infiniti for that. However, it was tuned to be sporty and not much else. It frequently shifts hard (not a mechanical issue, that’s how it’s been since new). Also, despite 7 gears, there is no cruising gear. All 7 are geared for acceleration and response, and nothing else. At 75 mph, it’s cruising at 2700 rpm, which kills fuel economy. 6th and 7th could easily have been geared for fuel economy and no one would have complained. Overall, it’s a good transmission, but could be better.

Toys: 7/10

The G37 is a pretty well-equipped car, even on lower trims levels (like mine). Dual-zone climate control, a 11-speaker, 374-watt Bose audio system, XM radio, navigation, Bluetooth phone, voice recognition that actually kind of works, a 10-way power drivers seat, 8-way power passenger seat, dual heated seats, and one-touch windows and sunroof. There’s not many options available on the G37, the features are mostly relegated to the different trim levels. There’s nothing super fancy, unexpected, or groundbreaking. However, it’s everything you would want and expect.

Audio: 7/10

The exhaust note of the VQ37, from factory, is actually pretty nice. It sounds muscular, at least up until about 5500 rpm. From there on, it’s not as good. However, it’s not nearly as bad as everyone makes it out to be. With exhaust modifications, however, the story changes dramatically. When the mufflers, resonators, or cats are removed, it truly transforms the car...into a very fast garbage disposal. Infiniti had it right from the factory. On the inside, the Bose audio system is excellent, surpassing the quality and strength of even new optional systems. I absolutely love the system and it’s definitely a win over competition.

Value: 9/10

The G37 sedan is an excellent luxury sports sedan that deserves more recognition. The E90 330i is an excellent luxury sports sedan as well. Yet, I bought the G37 not the BMW. Why? Two reasons: price and reliability. The Infiniti was very inexpensive, especially mine in particular, and it’s an extremely reliable car. When something breaks, or even just when maintenance needs to be done, it won’t be financial suicide. My particular G37x is a 2009 with 180,000 miles and it only cost me $4000. It was priced cheap as it needed some maintenance, but nothing major. Yet it’s still not unheard of to find other 09+ G37s for similar prices. You won’t be able to find another car at this price point that matches the reliability, technology, and athleticism of the G37.

Total: 74/100

It’s a very good score for a very good car. It’s not the best car in the world, but it certainly does make for an excellent daily driver. A few weak spots include the lack of unexpected equipment (even if it does have a nice list of standard features), a firm ride, and a confusingly geared transmission. However, it still shines in most other places, such as looks, acceleration, and value. If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable, nicely equipped small-midsize sedan that’s just as much fun on the weekdays as it is on the weekends, perhaps the G37 is worth a look.

Engine: 3.7L VQ V6

Power: 328 HP

Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic

0-60: 5.2 seconds

Drivetrain: AWD

Seating: 5 people (4 comfortably)

MPG (EPA): 18 City/25 Highway

MPG (Observed): 19.1 City/28.6 Highway

Stickers have since been removed

DISCUSSION (27)

HondoyotaE38: A Japanese and German Collab...wait a minute > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/10/2019 at 21:07

Damn, it’s already been two months since you got it? Apparently time doesn’t exist anymore. Anyways, I enjoyed this review and I really do want a G37X , no matter how expensive the ownership would be for my broke 16-year old jobless ass. I've always liked these cars and always will.

Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/10/2019 at 21:51

2 months and a review? You’ll have to do a follow up one in the future, long after the honeymoon phase is over

For Sweden > HondoyotaE38: A Japanese and German Collab...wait a minute
08/10/2019 at 21:53

Even teenagers can buy Datsuns now what a world

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > HondoyotaE38: A Japanese and German Collab...wait a minute
08/10/2019 at 21:53

Yeah, so far I’ve put $1200 or so into in maintenance the previous owner neglected, but it should be good to go for another 30k miles

arl > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/10/2019 at 21:58

My first car was a Datsun B210. It was terrible in almost every way.

Not that it has much to do with your review. Great review by the way. I think these have aged very well. I wanted one one “back in the day”. Good to hear you’re keeping it alive and well. Nice color too!

Love the garbage disposal analogy, LOL!

KingT- 60% of the time, it works every time > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/10/2019 at 22:00

One of us! one of us! ONE OF US!

Kinja'd!!!

Agree with everything. Surprised you found the transmission engaging because over 2.5 years ownership I definitely feel it’s not as responsive as it should be. That and poor fuel economy are my big complaints. it’s “old school” sports sedan but love everything else about it, the engine and handling the most. Some trim coming off is a common issue on older models.

dogisbadob > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/10/2019 at 22:19

Glad to hear your G37x has been reliable. I heard bad things about recent Nissan/Infiniti reliability, especially post-Renault.

I hope you get many more enjoyable miles out of it

There was also the G25 and G25x, both automatic only, with a 2.5L V6 for better mileage

WilliamsSW > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/10/2019 at 22:36

Very nice! I imagine the gearing is short because the engine is a bit peaky ? That doesn’t strike me as all that short though - my BMW is at 4 grand at 80 mph. No overdrive at all.

And plz no exhaust mods - the VQ is a great engine, just not a great sounding engine.

Hope the enjoyment continues!

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > arl
08/10/2019 at 22:58

Thanks! If you still want one, I’d be more than glad to trade it for your Mustang haha. I’m sure that doesn’t sound like a garbage disposal!

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > KingT- 60% of the time, it works every time
08/10/2019 at 23:01

You mean the soft touch plastic material that peels off all the time?

Kinja'd!!!

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > dogisbadob
08/10/2019 at 23:02

I’ve heard the Infiniti are still decent, if not as good as they used to be, but Nissans have been crap since they changed to CVTs

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > WilliamsSW
08/10/2019 at 23:06

The first 5 gears should be short, as it is a high revving gem of an engine (7750 rpm, or 500 high than my VTEC Acura), but 7 is more than enough gears to at least have one or 2 for highway economy IMO.

And I’m sorry to say, I’m gonna do some exhaust mods. But it’s just patching a small hole in the Y-pipe, so it’ll actually make it quieter.

WilliamsSW > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/10/2019 at 23:13

Lol on that exhaust mod!

Yeah the BMW is just a 5 speed manual that could use a 6th.

The Mercedes, on the other hand, is a 7 speed, and 5th is 1: 1. 7th is something like 0.73: 1. With an axle ratio around 2.6. Ridiculously tall.

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > WilliamsSW
08/11/2019 at 00:15

Infiniti needs to take notes from Mercedes, they should be ashamed that a 4.7L V8 powered midsize sedan gets better highway fuel economy.

To be fair, I did buy it knowing how thirsty it was.

And anytime I’m tempted to do actual exhaust mods I go to YouTube and play videos featuring garbage disposals and blenders.

WilliamsSW > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/11/2019 at 00:21

I’m getting pretty much the same mpg as you, but in a 4400 lb, 400+ HP car.

Japan’s dirty little secret is that all if their V6s seem to get terrible fuel economy. The old Acura TL was awful, and Lexus’ 3.5 v6 stinks too. But they’re reasonably powerful and damn near bulletproof.

MKULTRA1982(ConCrustyBrick) > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/11/2019 at 01:01

These oppo reviews are always fantastic and they are often genuinely really helpful. I have even stumbled across some in my normal search for used car reviews. It’s hard to find enthusiast oriented reviews for 10 year old regular cars, especially on cars that are actually ten years old. Keep them coming please!

hike > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/11/2019 at 08:11

Wow I can't believe a g37x can be had for that price! I used to drive an 06 G35x and still miss driving it. That car was terrible on gas due to the transmission gearing having it spinning at close to 3k at 65mph. Surprised it's still so bad on the 7 speed. Great car though!

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > MKULTRA1982(ConCrustyBrick)
08/11/2019 at 08:28

That requires me to keep on buying more cars! But thank you, I’m glad to here you really enjoyed it!

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > hike
08/11/2019 at 08:30

It’s better on the 7-speed for sure, on a trip where I averaged 60 mph, I got 30 mpg, which isn’t too bad at all

KingT- 60% of the time, it works every time > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/11/2019 at 08:33

Yup. Exactly. There have been some cases of sunroof leaks but I don’t thankfully. From a maintenance perspective- it tends to eat brakes so you’ll shell out more for resurfacing and replacement, but otherwise extremely reliable.

I really wanted a G37 X S or G37 S with the 18" wheels and sports sets+paddles but the right one didn’t come along. Got this instead CPO with just 18,000 miles on it back in 2o17 so I’m not complaining.

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > KingT- 60% of the time, it works every time
08/11/2019 at 09:46

I’ve taken it through the car wash 5 times so far and no leaks! I just got new brakes so I should be good for a while on those. And I definitely would’ve loved an XS but those are pretty rare here in the Midwest, plus I couldn’t pass on this amazing deal.

And that’s stupid low miles, great find.

M.T. Blake > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/11/2019 at 13:52

You got the right engine with the wrong transmission. Loved my G35 with the manual - a four door Z.

dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford > M.T. Blake
08/11/2019 at 14:38

Yes and no, manuals are impossible to find and everyone knows what they have, plus I drive in traffic a lot and my parents need to be able to drive it

M.T. Blake > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/11/2019 at 14:58

Sold mine for cheap. Even if they know it’s rare, it’s cheap. Especially compared to a Z. Wait your parents can’t drive a stick?! They grew up when that was about all that was available !

Textured Soy Protein > WilliamsSW
08/12/2019 at 09:34

My first car was my dad’s old 1990 Acura Legend that got handed down to me in 1998. According to its trip computer it averaged about 16-17 mpg in mostly city driving. This was a 2.7 liter V6 with a 4-speed auto making somewhere around 160-170 hp.

My 335xi which weighs more and has a tuned 3.0 liter turbo I6 making “roughly” 400-430 at the crank, with awd and manual transmission, gets the same mostly-city mileage, and it’ll do 28-29 on long highway trips.

WilliamsSW > Textured Soy Protein
08/12/2019 at 10:11

Some of that is 30 years of technological advances, but yeah, it’s a little weird to me that Japanese V6s seem to be gas hogs.

My GS 350 weighed 4000 lb, had 306 hp, and got 20 mpg.

My E550 weighs 4400 lb, has 400++ hp, 2 more pistons *and* 2 more turbos, and gets... 19 mpg.

RacinBob > dtg11 - is probably on an adventure with Clifford
08/12/2019 at 10:37

Ditt o on the short transmission gears. My friends met was downright obnoxious at70 mph running at 3000 rpm. It got terrible gas mileage.