The 2008 Infiniti G35 sedan marked another step forward for the nameplate, building upon the significant revisions introduced in the second-generation 2007 model. Infiniti aimed to solidify its position in the luxury sport sedan market, and the 2008 G35 came equipped to do just that. This model year brought enhancements and refinements that further amplified the G35’s appeal, focusing on performance, technology, and sophisticated design.
Evolution of a Sports Sedan: Design and Styling
The 2008 G35’s design language was a clear evolution of its predecessor, maintaining the athletic stance and distinctive Infiniti styling cues. The “wave form” hood and sharply angled A-pillars contributed to a sleek profile, while signature G-style LED taillights ensured instant brand recognition. The overall aesthetic aimed for a balance of power and elegance, hinting at the performance capabilities lurking beneath the surface.
Alt text: Front view of a 2008 Infiniti G35 showcasing its signature grille and L-shaped headlights.
The front fascia of the 2008 G35 was characterized by L-shaped High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights and the iconic Infiniti grille. The grille featured sculpted, “twisted” horizontal blades, a design element inspired by traditional Japanese swords, adding a touch of cultural artistry to the vehicle’s face. Fog lights were standard, and an optional Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) was available. AFS adjusted the headlight beam pattern based on steering angle and vehicle speed, enhancing nighttime visibility and safety.
Moving along the profile, the G35 presented a wedged roofline and a prominent character line that swept along the bodyside. This design choice not only emphasized the car’s rear-wheel-drive nature but also highlighted the sculpted shoulder lines, contributing to a muscular and dynamic appearance.
At the rear, the evolution continued with refined L-shaped LED taillights, a hallmark of the G series and a key element of Infiniti’s design identity. An integrated spoiler on the trunk lid and dual exhaust outlets further reinforced the sporty intentions of the G35.
For those seeking an even more aggressive aesthetic, the G35 Sport 6MT and Sport Package-equipped models offered unique styling enhancements. These included a distinct front fascia and side sills, along with larger 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. A full rear spoiler was also available, completing the performance-oriented look.
Alt text: Rear angle of a 2008 Infiniti G35 emphasizing its L-shaped LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets.
Interior Refinement: Craftsmanship and Technology
Inside the 2008 G35, Infiniti focused on creating an environment of “modern warmth,” blending driver-focused ergonomics with passenger comfort and sophisticated technology. The interior aimed to move beyond the stark, utilitarian designs sometimes found in sport sedans, offering a space that was both engaging and welcoming.
The driver’s cockpit was designed with simplicity and intuition in mind. Electroluminescent gauges with white-and-violet instrumentation provided clear and concise information. White was chosen for maximum contrast, while violet served as a premium accent color. A central information display, positioned between the speedometer and tachometer, provided essential driving data such as fuel consumption, speed, and trip information.
Japanese design influences were subtly integrated throughout the cabin. “Washi”-style textured aluminum-alloy accents, inspired by handmade Japanese paper, adorned the center console, instrument panel, and door panels. This unique trim added a touch of tactile elegance and visual interest.
The steering wheel itself was a testament to craftsmanship, featuring hand-stitched leather. This meticulous process, taking over an hour per wheel, ensured that the stitching was placed away from the driver’s typical hand positions, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable feel.
Audiophiles would appreciate the available 10-speaker INFINITI Studio on Wheels™ by Bose® Premium Audio System. This system was notable for its industry-first 3-way front door speaker array, incorporating 10-inch woofers. Paired with a high-quality head unit featuring 24-bit 96KHz Burr Brown® Digital Audio Converters, the system delivered exceptional sound fidelity.
Technology was seamlessly integrated into the 2008 G35’s interior. An optional touch screen INFINITI Navigation System included XM ® NavTraffic™ for real-time traffic updates and a 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for storing digital music. Standard features included the INFINITI Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, a 7.0-inch color monitor display, and XM ® Satellite Radio. Available upgrades included an INFINITI iPod ® Interface, Driver’s Audio Stage, RearView Monitor, and Bluetooth ® Hands-free Phone System.
Leather-appointed seating was standard across all 2008 G35 models, with color choices including Wheat (excluding Sport models), Stone, or Graphite. In addition to the standard Washi-style aluminum trim, optional premium genuine wood accents, specifically straight-grained African Rosewood, added a further layer of luxury.
Alt text: Interior view of a 2008 Infiniti G35 showcasing the dashboard layout, leather seats, and aluminum trim.
Performance and Drivetrain: The Heart of the G35
The 2008 Infiniti G35’s reputation for dynamic performance was rooted in its potent VQ35 3.5-liter V6 engine and the advanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform. Both of these key components had been significantly enhanced for the second-generation G Sedan, ensuring that the 2008 model delivered an engaging and refined driving experience.
The VQ-series V6 engine, a perennial award winner recognized as one of “Ward’s 10 Best Engines,” was in its fourth generation for the 2008 G35. It had undergone substantial revisions the previous year, with around 80% of major parts redesigned. These updates included a ladder frame block construction for increased rigidity, larger crank journal and pin diameters, and an increased block height. The engine center was also lowered by 15 millimeters, contributing to improved vehicle dynamics.
Further engine enhancements included standard variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), a higher redline (increased to 7,600 rpm), a higher compression ratio (10.6:1), asymmetric piston skirts, twin knock sensors, improved coolant flow, and new Iridium spark plugs.
A symmetric twin ram air intake system reduced airflow resistance, effectively increasing horsepower, particularly at higher speeds. The dual exhaust system, featuring equal-length exhaust manifolds and reduced muffler pressure, improved engine breathing and produced a performance-tuned exhaust note.
The 2008 G35 engine produced 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, marking a significant power increase over the previous generation while also improving emissions and fuel economy. Advanced engine technologies included Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), a “noiseless” timing chain, an electronic “drive-by-wire” throttle system, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, and molybdenum-coated lightweight pistons.
Infiniti characterized the engine’s performance as “Swell” acceleration, emphasizing a refined power delivery that built progressively to the redline, rather than just focusing on initial off-the-line speed.
Transmission choices for the 2008 G35 included a 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode and a 6-speed manual. The 5-speed automatic featured Downshift Rev Matching, Drive Sport mode, and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), which optimized shift patterns for sportier driving.
Chassis and Handling: Engineered for Agility
The 2008 G35’s engaging handling was largely attributed to its second-generation FM platform. Positioning the engine behind the front axle in a “Front Mid-ship” configuration resulted in improved front-to-rear weight balance. Combined with a long wheelbase and wide front and rear track, this platform contributed to the G35’s overall stability and nimble handling.
The suspension system was a 4-wheel independent design, utilizing lightweight aluminum components and stabilizer bars both front and rear. This setup was engineered to provide a balance of responsive handling and a refined ride quality. The front suspension design minimized alignment changes through a single pivot lower wishbone and a long upper link. The rear suspension separated the shock absorbers and springs, with the shock absorber positioned inline with the wheel center to reduce friction and axle wind-up during acceleration.
Optional on the G35 Sport 6MT and Sport Package-equipped RWD models was the Four-Wheel Active Steer system. This system enhanced handling performance by dynamically adjusting the front steering ratio and rear suspension geometry based on steering input and vehicle speed.
The 2008 G35 was also available with an “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system, ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split). The G35x AWD model utilized this system, which provided enhanced traction and control, particularly in adverse weather conditions, while minimizing the typical compromises to rear-wheel-drive handling characteristics on dry pavement.
All 2008 G35 models, regardless of drivetrain, came standard with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) to enhance stability. Rear-wheel-drive Sport-equipped models also included a Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) for improved traction during spirited driving.
Braking was handled by power-assisted 4-wheel vented disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist (BA). Sport models featured larger brakes. A Preview Braking system, integrated with the optional Intelligent Cruise Control, was also available. The power steering system was a twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensing design, providing optimized steering feel across different driving speeds.
The 2008 G35 came standard with 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, with 18-inch wheels available on Sport models and as an optional package. A Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) was standard on all models.
Safety and Security: Comprehensive Protection
Infiniti prioritized safety in the 2008 G35, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard equipment included the INFINITI Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental air bags, seat belt sensors, and an occupant classification sensor. Front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags for both front and rear occupants were also standard.
Additional safety features included 3-point ALR/ELR seat belts, front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, adjustable upper anchors, front seat Active Head Restraints, and the LATCH system for child seats. Brake-Operated Pre-Crash Seat Belts were available as part of the Technology Package.
The G35’s Zone Body Construction incorporated front and rear crushable zones designed to absorb and dissipate crash energy away from the passenger compartment.
Model Lineup and Options
The 2008 INFINITI G35 Sedan was offered in four distinct models: G35, G35 Journey, G35x AWD, and G35 Sport 6MT. Sport 6MT models and those equipped with the Sport Package included unique features such as drilled aluminum pedals, sport seats with thigh extensions and power bolster adjustments, upgraded brakes, a Viscous Limited Slip Differential, and magnesium paddle shifters on Sport Package-equipped automatic models.
A range of options and packages allowed buyers to customize their 2008 G35, including the Sport Package (newly available on the G35x AWD for 2008), a new 18-inch Wheel and Tire Package for the G35x AWD, Performance Tire and Wheel Package (G35 Journey), Premium Package, Moonroof, Navigation Package, Technology Package, Four-Wheel Active Steer Package, rear spoiler, and premium African Rosewood interior trim.
Conclusion: The 2008 Infiniti G35 Legacy
The 2008 Infiniti G35 built upon a strong foundation, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive design. With its potent V6 engine, refined handling, and technology-rich interior, the 2008 G35 continued to solidify its place as a serious contender in the luxury sport sedan segment, attracting drivers who sought a rewarding and engaging driving experience without sacrificing comfort or sophistication. It remains a sought-after vehicle for those appreciating a balance of sport and luxury in the used car market.
