Infiniti’s G model lineup was refreshed for the 2010 model year with new gauges, console design, interior trim, updated wheels for the sedan and new front and rear fascias. For the 2011 model year the G Coupe and Convertible receives a new exterior treatment and wheel designs. The G Coupe will also offer AWD Sport availability. The big news for the G stable though, is the new G25 Sedan, which expands Infiniti’s position in the entry-level luxury marketplace. Up to the present, Infiniti offered but one engine choice in this class – now, consumers can opt for the efficient new G25 or the higher performance G37.
The G25 relies on a refined 2.5-liter DOHC, 24-valve V6 (VQ25HR) engine that generates 218 horsepower at 6,400 rpm, and delivers187 pound feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine connects to a 7-speed automatic transmission, with manual shift capability, but without paddle shifters. The G25 4-door sedan is available in either a rear-wheel drive or in an AWD configuration – G25X. The rear-wheel drive version yields a 20-mpg city and 29-mpg highway rating, while the G25X gets 19-mpg city and 27-mpg highway. There are actually three model G25 sedans available: the base G25, which starts at $30,950; the G25 Journey that begins at $32,350; and the G25X Journey with a base sticker of $33,950. – $875 to each must be added for Destination and Handling charges.
The G25 sedan comes with the same interior, exterior and similar standard features as the G37 sedan, including: 17-inch alloy wheels; leather-appointed seating; “Shodo” aluminum trim accents; an 8-wqy power driver’s seat; automatic temperature control; keyless entry and pushbutton start; and XM® satellite radio. Opting for the Journey trim level adds: RearView monitor; auto on/off headlights; heated front seats and outside mirrors; dual-zone automatic temperature control; a USB port for iPod; and offers an optional power glass sunroof for $1,000.
At first glance, the new 2011 G25 looks a lot like its G37 counterpart, but upon closer examination, there are subtle nuances in the exterior treatment, especially in the front fascia. The G25 is stylishly attractive, with an aggressive and sporty stance and overall exterior image. The interior is equally pleasing, both in visual and physical terms.
My test 2011 Infiniti G25 Sedan came in Journey trim, and wore a Silver metallic exterior with the interior executed in Charcoal and Gray tones. The base price was set at $32,350, while optional costs for the sunroof, non-sport splash guards, Trunk mat, net and first aid kit, rear deck lid spoiler, vehicle alarm impact sensor and Destination and Handling charge elevated the final sticker to $35,285.
SUMMARY: The basic positioning of the Infiniti G25 Journey sedan for 2011 is obviously set up as more of an entry-level luxury vehicle with greater affordability and operating efficiency than the rest of the Infiniti G series lineup. The G25 serves the reverse purpose for instance, of the IPL G Coupe, which focuses on adding a heightened performance level. The G25 comes across as a sort of detuned G Series vehicle. But, make no mistake, the G25 isn’t really lacking in performance at all – it’s 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers more than adequate power. Notably, acceleration isn’t as quick as that cranked out by the healthier IPL G Coupe, and the ride isn’t quite as “planted”, but it gets down the road with sufficient gusto, while holding the road quite nicely as well.
For the consumer who’s looking for a sporty luxury sedan with pleasing performance and handling attributes at an affordable price, the Infiniti G25 is available to fill such a niche. Some may view it as a compromise to the G37 Infiniti, but realistically, it allows one to ride in the same style, while staying within one’s means. The primary difference is beneath the sheet metal, which, by the way is really pretty alluring overall.
In a bottom line analysis, Infiniti seems to be covering all the important bases for the 2011 model year in all of its model offerings – coupes, convertibles, sedans, crossovers and SUVs.
