The 2008 Infiniti G37 represents a pivotal moment for the brand, marking the transition from the beloved but aging G20 to a truly world-class luxury sport sedan. Offered with either a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 producing 330 horsepower or a potent 3.7-liter VQ37HR V6 with 400 horsepower in the FX37 coupe, this car delivered a blend of performance, comfort, and precision handling that was difficult to beat in its class.
Design and Exterior Refinements
Visually, the 2008 G37 signaled a dramatic shift from the boxy G20. Influenced by the 2006 Infiniti Essence concept, the design featured a low, wide stance, a pointed grille, and sweeping headlamps that gave the car a distinctly aggressive and sophisticated profile. The coupe and sedan shared core styling but had distinct rear treatments, with the sedan offering more practicality and the coupe emphasizing a lower, sportier silhouette. The interior was a masterpiece of Japanese design, moving away from the G20’s cluttered dash for a clean, driver-focused cockpit dominated by a large, backlit gauge cluster and a central navigation screen.
Powertrain and Performance Dynamics
Under the hood, the heart of the 2008 G37 was its refined V6 engine. The standard 3.7-liter unit provided ample power for effortless highway merging and passing, while the available 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability ensured precise control. For driving enthusiasts, the G37 Coupe’s FX37 variant was the pinnacle, harnessing the 400-horsepower VQ37HR engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. This powertrain combination, paired with the car’s near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution and an advanced multi-link rear suspension, delivered a driving experience that was sharp, communicative, and immensely engaging, whether on a windy backroad or navigating tight urban streets.
Handling and Chassis Engineering
Where the 2008 G37 truly shone was in its chassis engineering. Nissan’s performance division, Nismo, had a significant influence on the handling setup, resulting in a suspension that was firm yet compliant, absorbing road imperfections without sacrificing body control. The steering was weighted and precise, providing direct feedback that made the driver feel utterly connected to the road. This blend of comfort and agility was the car’s greatest strength, transforming it from a simple luxury transport into a dynamic instrument that invited spirited driving without becoming punishingly harsh on rough pavement.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The cabin of the 2008 Infiniti G37 was a sanctuary of comfort and quality. Seats were bolstered for lateral support during aggressive cornering yet remained plush enough for long-distance cruising. The leather was soft to the touch, and the meticulous stitching and high-grade materials created an atmosphere of genuine luxury. Technology was seamlessly integrated, with the available navigation system, premium Bose audio, and advanced climate controls all within easy reach. The introduction of the Around View Monitor on select models was a forward-thinking feature that provided unparalleled confidence during low-speed maneuvers and parking.
Reliability and Ownership Experience
Owning a 2008 G37 comes with a sense of rewarding responsibility. While the VQ37 engine is renowned for its durability, prospective buyers should be aware of potential maintenance items common to the era, such as the failure of the rear main seal or the need to service the variable valve timing (VVT) system. Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil and addressing minor issues promptly are key to ensuring the car delivers years of reliable service. For those willing to perform the necessary upkeep, the G37 offers exceptional value, combining low-cost ownership with a high-performance driving pedigree that typically rivals much newer vehicles.
