New BMW 335i coupe de-throned by Infiniti?

New BMW 335i coupe de-throned by Infiniti?
Could the unthinkable finally have happened?

After countless years of BMW superiority, is it truly possible that Infiniti has cracked the code?



We were shocked when we read the new issue of Automobile magazine when they implied that the new Infinit G37 coupe has hit the BMW coupe right between the eyes.

Here are a few quotes from the article:

"When the G37 arrives this fall, it could very well topple the BMW from its perch at the top of the segment."

"the Infiniti's body motions were better controlled than those of the 335i."

"On the brief straights, however, the G37 didn't feel quite as fast as the 335i"



Sounds like trouble for the BMW, right?

Here's what our take is on this article...

First, let us tell you how things are done in automotive pr business.

A magazine like Automobile gets an exclusive drive on a car ahead of the others in return for the cover article on their magazine...sounds like the game is fixed (and it is) but this has been happening for years.

So what do you think they will say in their article about the car?

They can't REALLY come out and say the car is better (because they don't TRULY believe it is), they just make leading statements that it COULD be better and tease you for the future article that will compare it in greater detail.

We're not just picking on Automobile mag or Infiniti here because ALL the major mags and manufacturers do the EXACT same thing.

We're just trying to give you an insider look on how the game works.

Let us make a prediction...when they do the REAL test, the BMW will win...just watch.

But until then, the seed of controversy has been planted and the manufacturer's pr department is ecstatic.

And one last thing...the other mags complain to the auto manufacturer that they were scooped by Automobile Magazine, so the pr person says-"don't worry, I'll get you the exclusive on our next car"...and so on and so on...

And the beat goes on....

Check out the photos in our 2007 New York Auto Show Photo Gallery!

New York Auto Show Gallery

AutoSpies.com Photo Galleries



enthusiastx11enthusiastx11 - 5/8/2007 8:40:16 PM
+6 Boost
the G37 is a really impressive car. and i think it's come the closest to the 3-series in performance terms.

but to answer the question...no.


dlindlin - 5/8/2007 10:40:31 PM
-2 Boost
With twin turbo and at least 10K more out of door, BMW has better win.

Will BMW still be winning if INFINITI put up a twin turbo to a, say RB26 or VQ25? Don't even need the VQ30 here.

Of course not.


AUDIMAN4AUDIMAN4 - 5/10/2007 2:04:08 AM
-2 Boost
May dethrone the 3, but it looks too Asian to be considered seriously.

It looks like an anime character.

Like you can just see just imagine it saying "I eat BMW with nori and soy sauce".


zorbeezezorbeeze - 5/10/2007 12:41:16 PM
0 Boost
Audfreak, there's a fine line between being a fanatic and a bigot.



AUDIMAN4AUDIMAN4 - 5/10/2007 9:22:23 PM
-2 Boost
Acura doesn't compete with Audi, idiot. Acura isn't even a real luxury company, and neither is Infiniti.

Neither can sell a full size luxury car, Acura lacks a V8, Infiniti lacks a V12, and neither have performance divisions.

So don't compare those two knockoffs with Audi, BMW, or Mercedes.




r_driver04r_driver04 - 5/11/2007 11:50:44 AM
0 Boost
Audiman4- You obviously have no idea what you're talking about. What the heck does having a performance division have to do with whether they're real luxury cars or not? Infiniti and Lexus have been dogging the Germans for almost 20 yrs now. Each year they get a little better. In fact the Infiniti M35/M45 got ranked better than both the Benz E Class and BMW 5. If you can't admit that they're as good of vehicles or better in some respects, than you probably couldn't afford either one....right?


AUDIMAN4AUDIMAN4 - 5/11/2007 5:30:47 PM
0 Boost
They have? That sure as hell is news to me. Because Infiniti hasn't existed anywhere in Europe and was just released in Korea.

Lexus isn't well recognized at all in any other markets. How can they be "dogging" the Germans?



aeyjayaeyjay - 5/8/2007 9:31:25 PM
+1 Boost
Youv'e unknowingly revealed the secret... IN MY OPINION

A similar Japanese version of the same car so it all comes down to styling and Infiniti's version of the M3 to really draw more people away from the propeller badge.

Just my .02


Bmw8terBmw8ter - 5/9/2007 10:53:05 AM
+1 Boost
"Roundel Badge" sounds a little more enticing.


zorbeezezorbeeze - 5/10/2007 12:45:31 PM
+1 Boost
The price difference will not be as huge as everyone claims. And if a $5000 price difference bothers someone that much then you can't afford these cars.


r_driver04r_driver04 - 5/11/2007 11:51:29 AM
+1 Boost
Agreed.


sewingmachinesewingmachine - 5/8/2007 9:11:45 PM
+5 Boost
im starting to like the g, more and more. cant wait to see it in the flesh.


dannyboy2dannyboy2 - 5/8/2007 9:39:25 PM
+2 Boost
These cars are sooo similar in performance it'd be hard to tell which is better in day to day driving.. although the blown 335 probably has more potential. Anyone willing to up the boost?

But the 3 coupe has the same boring interior as the sedan and this infiniti looks much better.. that counts a lot in most people's judgement.

Also the 3's styling is so damn predictable, the infiniti has a little flair


maff23ukmaff23uk - 5/9/2007 6:34:44 AM
-2 Boost
I can't believe anyone buying a prestige car would prefer the Infiniti's interior over a BMW's. BMW interiors have always said quality and instruments are always in the right place with no clutter. Infiniti interiors, like those of most Japanese manufacturers always use poorer quality plastics, have cluttered instruments and just come across as cheap and tacky, IMHO.


zorbeezezorbeeze - 5/10/2007 12:50:01 PM
0 Boost
Maff23 you're really ignorant. None of these two cars are prestigious in any way.
And the BMW's interior have improved at a much slower pace than their comptetitors, ie Audi, Lexus, Mercedes and even Infinity and Cadillac.


dannyboy2dannyboy2 - 5/11/2007 9:37:51 AM
+1 Boost
My girlfriend owns a 325 sedan and i can't stand the hard and ugly tan colored plastic. The stuff is shite with unnecessary lines everywhere..like for the stupid pop-out cupholders.

I was disappointed to see the coupe had the same dash..


dannyboy2dannyboy2 - 5/11/2007 9:39:12 AM
+1 Boost
My girlfriend owns a 325 sedan and i can't stand the hard and ugly tan colored plastic. The stuff is shite with unnecessary lines everywhere..like for the stupid pop-out cupholders.

I was disappointed to see the coupe had the same dash..

When i said real-world driving, i meant at speeds most people would be driving. People like my girlfriend who only bought her car because of the badge, she wouldn't even now the difference between a turbo, V6 or V12 for that matter


pchera01pchera01 - 5/8/2007 10:14:32 PM
-2 Boost
if Infiniti bring out the VQ25HR into sedan and coupe, then G will de-throne the BMW, but it will be really really close...
ME and 6 other frinds are planning to buy G35 sedan and coupe together, 2Coupe and 4 sedans together


maff23ukmaff23uk - 5/9/2007 6:36:12 AM
+2 Boost
Where do people who are clearly kids get the money to buy cars in this price bracket in the US anyway?!


Bmw8terBmw8ter - 5/9/2007 11:00:51 AM
+4 Boost
maff23uk.......it's called working at McDonalds. Home of the "McDelusion of Grandeur".


jmrA480jmrA480 - 5/9/2007 3:54:51 PM
+1 Boost
so your buying 6 cars for 7 people? you said Me and 6 friends, Thats 7 people but only 6 cars?

Why the hell do you want to have the same car as 5 of your friends, especially a infiniti? Be original and get something better, like a Audi,BMW, or MB.


nvmenvme - 5/9/2007 9:17:24 PM
+1 Boost
so i assume u're gonna sit there and watch while the six cars are driven by your six friends...


henbmwhenbmw - 5/10/2007 8:55:37 PM
+1 Boost
and i will buy a 335, spend 1 grand and blow you all out of the water. buy 10 for all we care so us 335 owners can be faster than all 10 of you


weaponXweaponX - 5/8/2007 10:35:24 PM
+5 Boost
Thanks for the insight 001. Interesting.


EL34EL34 - 5/8/2007 10:52:05 PM
-15 Boost
"New BMW 335i coupe de-throned by Infiniti?"

No, and the new C-Class is a better car as well.

The new A4/5 will destroy all Infiniti's.


snatchandgrabsnatchandgrab - 5/9/2007 9:21:24 AM
+1 Boost
C class...never....too girly...true womans car (except for the amg)...I'd rather have the infiniti


zorbeezezorbeeze - 5/10/2007 12:53:49 PM
+1 Boost
"The new A4/5 will destroy all Infiniti's"

When they start prodcing RWD maybe. But until then NO.


iamdabest1iamdabest1 - 5/8/2007 11:12:23 PM
+2 Boost
i think all this competition is great. the g37 will be a great alternatitive to other more expensive cars like the audi a5 and bmw 335i.
even if g37 is faster and better, you will still see plenty of 335i's on the road because its a bmw..... its all about the image but of course when the 2 cars race, the bmw driver will feel bad if he loses or its close being the difference in price will be a KIA


07mcs07mcs - 5/9/2007 1:16:07 PM
+2 Boost
I don't believe the G37 is faster than the 335i. The twin turbo 3 liter I-6 has more torque at lower rpm than the G37 engine, so it should be faster off the line.


pchera01pchera01 - 5/8/2007 11:48:11 PM
+1 Boost
Audi has long way to go, they are not as good as Infiniti in Quality reputation at all. They need to work more on it and they are too expensive too, 4cylinder will cost you alomst 40K plus and styling is not for everyone. Audi is doing good America recent years. But Infiniti has Quality of Lexus and Performance of BMW& Audi...


maff23ukmaff23uk - 5/9/2007 6:39:42 AM
+3 Boost
Americans have a very common habit of confusing QUALITY with RELIABILITY. Japanese manufacturers are certainly the most RELIABLE in terms of mechanicals, I don't think anybody can dispute that, but the Germans have always and still do use much higher QUALITY materials particularly for interiors.


MarkMark - 5/9/2007 12:00:06 PM
-2 Boost
Exactly bulldogz....there is no need for pleather in a german car. Either offer nothing but leater and don't charge extra for it, or offer a high end cloth for people do don't want to spend the money or don't like leater.


LexusLexus - 5/9/2007 12:15:41 AM
-6 Boost
I think it has what it take to overthrone the BMW 3-Series coupe. And I also think it a much better looking car than the BMW 335i coupe.


EL34EL34 - 5/9/2007 12:35:00 AM
-3 Boost
I remember when the Lexus IS-F came out and Lexus fan boys were acting all goofy over that car and saying it will destroy the M3, but then the M3 came out with it's Carbon Fiber roof and the fan boys ran and cried to mama.


delandelan - 5/9/2007 12:48:28 AM
-2 Boost
Hahaha, the dark horse gallops (G37) from the horizon. This commentary sounds like a bash on Infiniti. Am I to believe that Car and Driver's claims of BMW superiority is a *game* as well? If that's what your saying, then...isht I believe you!


Agent63Agent63 - 5/9/2007 2:08:16 AM
+1 Boost
The fact of the matter is the BMW 3 is the benchmark in this class for handling in the entry level segment as far as I remember. It will take a lot to beat the 3 series sedan/coupe.

The Infiniti G37 looks good and has the performance numbers but people who buy a 3 series does not care so much about the numbers. In recent history the E46 had less power than the G35 coupe but I still think the E46 still dominated.

Sure there is no way to justify the price difference between the G37 and the 3 series coupes but it's the feel of European luxury and European supreme handling that draws the past present and future consumers to continue buying the BMW 3.

G37 is not a bad car at all so don't get me wrong but I think it can continue to try to beat the prestige this BMW has over an Infiniti. Prestige you ask? OH yes, when they sell Infiniti's alongside Nissan makes one wonder why not just seperate into two dealerships at least like Lexus & Toyota.

Well beats me but the BMW has not been de-throned at all. I would even take the 328i with premium/sport packages over a G35/37 coupe. Although I'm madly in love with the G.


07mcs07mcs - 5/9/2007 1:14:14 PM
0 Boost
I have seen Nissan and Infiniti Dealers. Where do you say they sell them under one roof?


roadrunnerroadrunner - 5/10/2007 5:33:37 PM
+1 Boost
CommonSense,

I think I would have to go with Agent63 here: I would go for 328 over G35 as well(I'm not qualified to compare it to G37 since I haven't driven one but lets compare the 07 models). 328 has much bigger back seat with higher head height, much much better gas mileage(even 335 has better mpg than G35), less weight, better handling, better steering feel, bigger cargo, free maintenance for 4 years, better interior fit&finish, better resale value, better leasing program, better ride, just to name a few...


WickedRabbitWickedRabbit - 5/9/2007 2:30:45 AM
+1 Boost
why would it be hard to believe that Infiniti could be the 3-series? They obliterated the 5 series with the M45 Sport in my opinion, which is a view shared by I think... hmm... 95% of the automotive industry. The new 3-series coupe is an amazing piece of work, but if Infiniti could match and beat them in the 5-series class I don't see it being arguably that much more difficult to take the same strategy and apply it to the G37 for the 3-series class. All the new 3 series technically has is the new twin turbo engine that really sets it apart, aside from that it's business as usual. Won't be that difficult for someone to catch up. Maybe not this year, but definitely by next year.


printhanprinthan - 5/9/2007 6:23:34 AM
+1 Boost
you jus wasted your time!!!
read more magazine


maff23ukmaff23uk - 5/9/2007 6:44:27 AM
+5 Boost
I think the sales figures for the 5-Series and Infiniti M might tell a different story.

For me European brands have a consistent design ethos across their ranges and through subsequent generations. Japanese brands tend to be very hit and miss on design and to me they make rookie mistakes. In the case of the Infiniti M, the rear light cluster is HUGE and totally out of proportion!



aeyjayaeyjay - 5/9/2007 3:05:56 AM
-4 Boost
Lexus-like luxury, BMW prowess and sportiness, Nissans reliability. Take all that, give it the latest technology, price it right and mate it with an unassuming character that doesn't seem pretentious... and what do you have?

a car that hits the G spot

LOL


printhanprinthan - 5/9/2007 4:31:07 AM
-2 Boost
i dunno if ne1 wld want to buy that ugly lookin infinini.. da previous version was bad at all

BMW 335i.. i willing to konw who wldn't want that car


JUGNUJUGNU - 5/9/2007 6:30:03 AM
0 Boost
I already said it earlier that In Middle East we get 2007 330BHP G35 Sedan.

In a recent first drive by the renowned Evo Magazine (Middle East edition) they clocked 0-60 in 4.9 Seconds.
In one another magazine Auto Arabia, they said Under 5 Seconds.

Seeing this I presume the G37 Coupe which will be lighter, will be very very close to the New 335i Coupe.

JUGNU


snatchandgrabsnatchandgrab - 5/9/2007 9:25:39 AM
+4 Boost
I don't think the pictures truly reflect the beauty of this car...I think this is the only car that looks slightly better than the 3 series. A friend of mine just purchased a new 335...man it really looks good but his parking space is next to a guy who drives a G35 coupe...though the 335 is newer...I think the old g35 looks better (to me). One thing I can say about both of these vehicles...I hate the metal trim...please choose woodgrain..it looks so cheap..he also has it in his 335..yuck.


snatchandgrabsnatchandgrab - 5/9/2007 9:44:01 AM
+6 Boost
As far as sales are concerned...the BMW will win. My guess is the BMW will beat it perfomance wise slightly. I just prefer Infiniti over the smaller BMWs.
For the record..I own a 645ci,99q45, S430


M35MTM35MT - 5/9/2007 1:37:42 PM
+2 Boost
That's awesome you own a Q with those other two flagships...very respectful.


chuck717chuck717 - 5/9/2007 10:20:00 AM
+2 Boost
Would love to see a G37 conv?


M35MTM35MT - 5/9/2007 1:38:45 PM
+2 Boost
not entirely, for looks (if they could pull it off, which rarely happens well, IMO) It would compromise rigidity.


supermotosupermoto - 5/9/2007 11:26:46 AM
+2 Boost
Not to mention, BMW can easily add another 50+hp/torque the moment it feels like via upping the boost and changing the fuel/air mixture. Such modifications are widely available in the aftermarket right now, starting at $600.


cckwcckw - 5/9/2007 11:31:17 AM
-1 Boost
LOL, this site should be named “AutoFan.com” Fan as in fanning that is! Throw in some inciting catch phrase with the word BMW, Lexus, Infiniti and all the fan boys go gaga!!!


BM3WBM3W - 5/9/2007 11:33:52 AM
+1 Boost
Intriguing title, but the answer is no. The 335i's motor will show it's strength with prodigious amount of mid range torque, because of the inline turbo's. Noticeably more than a NA inline 6 cylinder motor. That is what pulls the car through the gears. My favorite saying on the street, torque wins races, HP sells cars. Infiniti is in the business of selling cars while BMW is in the business of both selling cars and winning races. In the quarter mile, both cars would likely trap the same, but the 335i, everything being equal would ET a 10th or two quicker. On a roll race, the difference would be even more pronounced. Giving the G37 no chance to de-throne the 335i.


mini22mini22 - 5/9/2007 11:40:03 AM
0 Boost
Look there are plenty of people that don't want to pony up the cash for the BMW. Remember that those who say the BMW is better are usually jounalists who road test these cars on a track. In real world driving people would notice how a car rides over bumps and handles. In addition if one car sounds more rough then the other in engine noise. More important how the interior looks and feels. The previous G coupe was pretty but a little deficient in some of these areas. The new one has clearly made up some ground. Throw in the price differential and the G seems to be the better buy. Personal opinion but I think the 3 series coupe looks a little bloated from some angles. I prefered the previous version. More important most 3 series coupes look like they were derived from sedans. The G coupe both in the previous and new one don't potray that.


MarkMark - 5/9/2007 12:08:05 PM
+2 Boost
And there mini...you have reached the centralized point of car review and comparisons. 001, Automag, Automobile, C&D, R&T, etc...can all do their own respected review of a car and crown it king, tops, winner, cream of the crop, car of the year, whatever. But when you take the average person driving a car around town and in "their lifestyle" you get a different perspective. You get some that say no, this was better and for this reason. I honestly don't care about what 0-60, lat g forces, or slalom numbers a car got. If it feels good driving it then the magazines and with all due respect (001)....go fly a kite.

So will the G37 beat the BMW 3???? Yes. For someone it will. And for that one person it's really all that matters.


supermotosupermoto - 5/9/2007 1:20:53 PM
+4 Boost
The infiniti is a great car, but there are a ton of people with cash that must drive a brand name. People are going to pay more (for sometimes less) just to get a MB or BMW badge, no matter how it does in a comparison test. I will bet Infiniti will never ever reach that level of prestige.


1970toyotamarc1970toyotamarc - 5/9/2007 11:46:04 AM
-2 Boost
Why is it that if an article hints that something might be better than a BMW, we get Autospies analysis on what the authors truly must mean (which is that BMW is sent from heaven, and should be worshipped above all else, natch)? Yet when BMW is crowned champion, it is just assumed to be irrefutable truth, no analysis needed. Seems a little strange to me.....


PPowerPPower - 5/9/2007 12:01:11 PM
+1 Boost
Yes, I'm sure that Automobile set the article to be a teaser, but is it not possible for the car to be a real contender. Automobile wasn't the only magazine to drive the car, so how was their review "exclusive"? Was it because you weren't invited that you have a chip on your shoulder, 001? My guess is that it won't be 100% of the driving experience of the BMW, but the $10,000 savings will weigh in greatly like the M is compared to the 5 series. I find it humorous how BMW fans used to always wage the "battle" with handling (and won rightfully so) because they are traditionally the lowest horsepower, and acceleration alone isn't everything. Now that BMW is embracing turbo technology and has the hottest engine, equal handling or slightly trailing in dynamics as alluded to in the article gets people to go back to acceleration.

BEFORE I LOSE YOU WITH BEING TO WORDY... Keep in mind that the G37 non-sport (coupe) is tuned like the G35 Sport (sedan), and the G37 Sport is a step up from there. In my mind, this puts the G37 more in line with the 335 coupe with not sport package, but the M package that Europe has available and should be available in the US fairly soon. So that puts the POSSIBLE handling ranking 335<G37<335 w/ Sport<G37 w/ Sport<335 w/ M pack<M3<GTR. Throw in a solid $10,000 savings for comparably equipped Infiniti and see what that does to decision making.

There is nothing to take away from BMW's expertise in driving experience, but Infiniti is a whole package giving savings, comparable performance, IMO better looking interior, better long term reliability/resale (post warranty), much better user-friendlieness & technology (music box, dynamic rear view monitor, voice learning, etc.) BMW-level performance and Acura-level technology is a perfect marriage.


SHOWTIMESHOWTIME - 5/10/2007 5:07:52 PM
+1 Boost
PPower,
I am a BMW fan and I do agree with you on the whole thing with switching from all about handling to talking more about the engine now lol... But I think everyone looks for every way to prove something they like is better, aspecially a champion for the longest time. I always did say though that BMW needed to up the power on the 6 cylinder non M's. So they finally did:)


BM3WBM3W - 5/9/2007 12:09:58 PM
+1 Boost
Autospies is simply stating how the game is played. I like their insight. Trust me Automoble Magizine wants to sell their cover, so how are they going to do that by impling the G37 might be better than the 335i so stay tune. But, the bottom line is the engine under the 335i bonet has just taken home the international engine of the year award (3.0L inline turbo's)combine that with the torque figures and you truly have a gift from above. Don't hate the player hate the game.


PPowerPPower - 5/9/2007 12:47:32 PM
+1 Boost
BM3W, I agree that the 3.0TT is probably the best engine out right now, but your comments completely support what I wrote. Now the BMW fans can focus on the engine/acceleration if they get matched or *gasp* beaten in chassis dynamics. Hey, G35 used the same argument when it had more power than the 3 series back in 2003 and couldn't beat the 3 handling but had the drivetrain to whoop on it for the time. All great cars with something for everybody. The real shame is that there is no 335Xi or G37x. G35x is the highest demand version in my market because of the benefit of AWD and 300+hp instead of 225ish hp of the competitors. This is where Audi A5 will shine if they get to the new 300hp benchmark. uh oh, did I bring the Audi fanboys on board? Now for Lexus...


M35MTM35MT - 5/9/2007 2:07:43 PM
+4 Boost
There is one reason why the G cannot beat the 3 series, and never will.

Referencing the Motor Trend comparison of the 2006 330sedan and 2007 Gsedean, the conclusion was both cars were neck and neck. How did the decide the 3 was the winner? And I quote directly:

Tallying the rounds brings us to a tie, which our judges broke in favor of the BMW's sublime and vice-free chassis dynamics. The Infiniti may be the better package and the better value, but for now the BMW is the better car. Call it another TKO, but BMW retains the sport-sedan title. For now.

1st Place: 2006 BMW 330i Sport
Flits like a butterfly, sings like a B3 Hammond--a smooth operator that never loses its cool

2nd Place: 2007 Infiniti G35S
Killer performance and package with refinement that suffers only by comparison with this BMW


"chasis dynamics" refers to noise isolation and solidity, not conerning/handling performance.

Biased, because the 3 is the king, and I believe, no matter how good the G gets, the "experts" will always pick the 3.

Drive for yourself...both cars look and drive great, one costs significantly less. You pay for prestiege and panache with bimmer...which may get you slightly higher grade materials, and that "euro feel" many of you reference.


MarkMark - 5/10/2007 8:48:50 AM
+1 Boost
And by quoting MT in their decision, you have put into text one of my major problems with car magazines now. There is no loyalty to the car. It's to the manufacturer.

The cars were neck and neck and yet they call a TKO and crown the BMW. I'm sorry what does TKO stand for again??

Stupid journalists who have no heart anymore into anything they do. And MT was one of the last great magazines.


chuck717chuck717 - 5/9/2007 2:19:21 PM
+1 Boost
Some folks buy looks,some buy name,some buy because their isn't a dealership near them for service,some just get a better deal on another model. BMW or Infiniti whoever, if the dealer makes a good impression, the sales consultant knows his stuff and guest drive goes without a hitch either one of these two cars will sell, they are both attractive,powerful enough,to convince any buyer.
If i was selling the G37 the only thing i go after as regard to the BMW is overall more reliable car, and if i'm selling the BMW, the 4 year free service which Infiniti doesn't have.
If the buyer is just curious and he a firm German buyer then no pitch works, on the other hand a Japanese buyer can be lured easier to a German car i find.




izfuneyizfuney - 5/9/2007 3:11:04 PM
+2 Boost
Interesting Read. But flawed hypothesis on your part Agent001- to cry advertising or percieved bias in the case of Infiniti as opposed to BMW and mocking Automobilemag is a at best a very underhand play.

Frankly the G37, has just enough oomph to not only supersede the BMW auto in sheer handling terms but also enough to overcome the positive bias people have towards the German marque.
Talking about chipped engines, mods is at best a fools game that doesnt bear any weight when it comes to outright chasis design and engine responsiveness.

That infiniti got it so right is a testament to their improvement. The 335 was BMW way to get back at the IS350, little did it think that an upstart like G37 would sink it.

I think in the end irrespective of which car you like, that there are so many choices for you is something to celebrate :)


Agent001Agent001 - 5/9/2007 3:17:24 PM
+1 Boost
Did you READ what I said?

"We're not just picking on Automobile mag or Infiniti here because ALL the major mags and manufacturers do the EXACT same thing.

We're just trying to give you an insider look on how the game works."

We're not picking on anyone, just trying to share with you all how this antiquated system works.

Good for Automobile mag that they got it...just pointing out the reality of the situation and most readers appreciate this insight.

001



S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 5/9/2007 3:12:21 PM
+2 Boost
Okay, pchera, I'm going to respond to this, point by point. I don't really know why you brought Audi into this article, but here it is:

"Audi has long way to go, they are not as good as Infiniti in Quality reputation at all. They need to work more on it and they are too expensive too, 4cylinder will cost you alomst 40K plus and styling is not for everyone. Audi is doing good America recent years. But Infiniti has Quality of Lexus and Performance of BMW& Audi..."

1. What's a "Quality reputation?" Do you mean reliability? Then yes, Infiniti does have very slightly better reliability than Audi. Yes, only slightly- according to CR, Audi is #11 on the list of 36, while Infiniti is 8 or 9. In terms of "prestige," while there's no way to measure that, I could say with confidence that Audi products are more prestigous than their Infiniti competitors. Audi has proven itself as an engineering and design leader over the past decade.

2. Pricing. Hmm. Last time I checked, the G is more expensive than the A4, and the M is right up there with the A6. Granted, Audi cars do have more options, but it isn't necessarily because they have less standard- it's because they have more available features. Believe me, a G35 can go over $40K easily. A friend has a $42K G35 sedan, and it doesn't even have the cold weather package.

3. Styling isn't for everyone on Infinitis either! What kind of point is that? I happen to like how most Infinitis look, but that was a stupid comment.

4. Love how you mention that Infiniti has the performance of Audi... so you're using Audi's own virtue against them? Interesting. One thing Audi has that Infiniti doesn't: relaxing, beautiful interiors. Infiniti's interiors, especially on the last-gen G and QX56, are cheap and nasty at this pricepoint. Obviously, this new G35/G37 is an improvement, but it can't match any Audi interior, sans the A3.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 5/9/2007 6:48:55 PM
+1 Boost
It's a last-gen G35 sedan. 2003, I think. I saw the sticker- $42K. It's not even a G35X. I didn't understand it, either.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 5/9/2007 3:19:54 PM
+1 Boost
NOW, about the article! I didn't like the G37 at first- thought the last-gen G35 Coupe was sexier. I am starting to like it, but I have to see it on the road first.

On the other hand, when I first saw the E92 in pictures, I hated it. Then, I saw it on the road. Now it's my favorite sub-$50K coupe, bar none. Just beautiful.

I think that, on looks alone, I'd pick the BMW. On performance, it would be pretty even. I can't say about the interior, because the 3's interior doesn't look as good, but has great materials; the G's interior probably looks better but with cheaper materials.


mini22mini22 - 5/9/2007 3:52:58 PM
+1 Boost
Point is there are BMW people,non BMW people,and those that straddle the fence.I would think for those
people who straddle the G coupe will pick up some along with the non BMW people.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 5/9/2007 6:51:52 PM
+2 Boost
Yes, Sailor, you say you think the BMW is better, but you're probably going to get the Infiniti?

?


indoctrin8edindoctrin8ed - 5/9/2007 7:04:47 PM
+4 Boost
Reviews claimed the same thing about the last round of G35 v. 330 BMW.

I doubt this will be any different.

Infinity G37: Good.
BMW 335: Better.



answeranswer - 5/9/2007 7:15:40 PM
0 Boost
I heard from EL34 that the next generation Hyundai Tiburon will be the car to topple the 3 series when it arrives.


S4cabriofoxoneS4cabriofoxone - 5/9/2007 10:09:54 PM
+1 Boost
Oooh, that EL34 is a bad influence. You should stay away from that one.


WickedRabbitWickedRabbit - 5/9/2007 11:26:01 PM
+3 Boost
Sales figures with automobiles nowadays are somewhat bias and I do not think should count as an 'overall winner' because frankly, the MAJORITY of people that own luxury cars own them for the sake of recognition and status and couldn't tell you even 10% of anything about their car aside from what's advertised. Infiniti is still an "up and comer" in the luxury market and the M45 Sport is frankly a much better car than the BMW 5 series. However, the 5 series will retain its sales lead because a) a lot of people aren't familiar with Infiniti and b) the "status symbol" of a BMW is greater than an Infiniti.

What's funny though is that the price of the car is also considered. The most costly, the more "status" you get. A lot of cars nowadays cost way more than they should, but frankly, it's done on purpose because luxury automakers like BMW, Benz (especially benz) know that the price reflects status and prestige so a slight increase makes you want to own it all the more.

The upcoming rumored $50,000 Hyundai is a good example of this. The idea of a $50k Hyundai at first is amazing, but I think they are playing on the whole "cost = prestige" factor and I'm willing to bet that it turns out pretty successful for them. Maybe not a huge competitor to other vehicles in its class, but much better than what they are use to selling.

If I was to rate it, the G35 would be the best value in its class, only lacking VERY MINOR cabin noise and "prestige" (if you're a pussy ass that buys cars to show off) of the 3-series. But, for the price, you get a "better value of the car". About $8,000 less, more power, just as nice of handling, a NICER interior than the cheap ass 3-series interiors (good lord...for $40k you'd think you'd actually get something that required a little effort to design).

Don't get me wrong, I love BMW's, but I have a hard time buying them when I look at cars like Infiniti that are equal in almost every regard for a lot less. Plus, anytime i see a car that has a cheap ass and basic interior but the exterior looks amazing, I immediately know it's a status car. I'd rather have a nicer interior than a great exterior.

BMW is VERY lucky Audi doesn't have more recognition than it does because the S5 would be giving the 3-series a run for its money if it did. Great exterior, excellent interior and I'm sure the handling will be even a bit better than what they all ready do because of the weight change of the car from previous Audi's. And the "definitely going to happen RS5" will obliterate everything else in its class much like the RS4.


pchera01pchera01 - 5/10/2007 4:01:18 AM
+2 Boost
I think Infiniti is still makng money to build better cars, like u said Infiniti doesn't have the reputatuon of BMW or Lexus yet, but they are tring hard. If u look at the lease deals going on Infintiti is too hard to pass it, it is very good. They want to reconginze first then prestige will come to play


Agent63Agent63 - 5/10/2007 7:30:15 AM
+1 Boost
CommonSense,

I believe the only major difference between the 335 and 328 is the engine. Technology are mainly options. If you say for 9 grand difference you can get a superbike in your garage then what justifies the price difference between the 328 and the 335 when the performance difference is what 1 second 0-60? You pay that much more for 1 second? You might as well get the G37 and save even more.

The performance may not be as crazy as the G37 but the 328i makes up in the driving ability. 3 series are known for their agility around bends and corners. Are you saying the 328 is slow? it's only slow depending on who you compare it to.

Okay, never mind the 328i. What justifies the price difference for the 335 when you could get the G37?


LordvaderLordvader - 5/11/2007 7:27:48 AM
+1 Boost
Less is more... So here it is:

G37 will beat any non-M BMW 3 series...ESPECIALLY in handling people. The G is all wheel steering.

G37 has a much more awe inspiring interior and exterior. But all styling issues are STRICTLY a matter of opinion.

The new M3 will blow the doors off the G37, and only a fool would even look in the direction of the M3 if driving a G37. These two versions (M3 vs. G37) are on a entirely different plane, so don't compare them.


gsh23gsh23 - 5/11/2007 5:33:34 PM
+1 Boost
uuuhh errr bmw leather is already plastic brand new (unless you pay extra). ive driven an 02 3 series and seroiusly it drives like any other car with its huge steering wheel and laggy throttle response. not that a used g35 would be any better.


r_driver04r_driver04 - 5/11/2007 11:53:35 AM
+1 Boost
The BMW legend will be the hardest thing for Nissan/Infiniti to overcome. But the G37 is an awesome car, much better looking than the G35.


Fabian657Fabian657 - 5/13/2007 11:39:54 AM
+1 Boost
It's amazing how ignorant and out of touch some Americans are. How could anyone that has any bit of knowledge post the following?
---------------------
LEXUS BEATS MERCEDES
INFINITI BEATS BMW
ACURA BEATS AUDI
---------------------

You obviously have no idea about any of the cars mentioned to post such an ignorant comment. I don't see either Lexus, Acura, or Infiniti with a V10 engine (which is one major indicator of the status level of a luxury vehicle) I guess on planet USA distortion of the justifying the Iraq War carries over to the opinions of motor vehicles also - LMAO!! Just some automotive facts for you, Audi has both a V10 and V12, not to mention, numerous models far above the Acura $45k Acura RL. They have an S8 and S6 with V10 engines, a A8 W12 6.0 and R8 that could buy you 3 RLs. Mercedes has numerous V12 engined cars - Lexus? Big fat Zero! They don't even have a V10 - LOL! and they can't even get their Parking system right - what a joke of technology. BMW has the M5 with a V10 engine and the 7 series model has a 12 cylinder option. Inifiniti? NOPE - looks like they are still maxed out with a V8 engine just like the Lexus and Acura... So do yourself a favor and read before you throw useless nonsense out there.
AUDI-BMW-MERCEDES are at a level Lexus, Infiniti, and Acura will not attain.


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