The INFINITI I30, since its inception, has been a driving force for the INFINITI Division, consistently exceeding sales expectations. Launched in May 1995, this model quickly became responsible for over half of INFINITI’s sales, surpassing initial projections and solidifying its position in the mid-luxury segment. The 1997 INFINITI I30 aimed to continue this legacy, offering features and styling cues reminiscent of the flagship Q45, but at a more accessible price point – under $30,000. This positioning allowed INFINITI to cater to a broader audience of luxury car buyers seeking a blend of luxury, safety, and performance without the flagship price tag. According to Thomas H. Eastwood, vice president of the INFINITI Division at the time, the I30 was designed as “a platform for the newest expression of INFINITI,” a vehicle engineered to meet the sophisticated demands of the luxury-oriented consumer with high performance capabilities.
Design and Aesthetics
The exterior design of the INFINITI I30 in 1997 was anchored by a prominent front grille, characterized by elegant, flowing lines that extended across the vehicle’s silhouette. The design culminated in a wide, horizontal taillight arrangement, contributing to a sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic for its time. Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the design, with the I30 achieving a drag coefficient of just 0.32. This attention to aerodynamic efficiency not only contributed to fuel economy but also facilitated a remarkably quiet cabin and a stable ride, enhancing the overall luxury experience for occupants.
The I30’s long wheelbase and wide cabin dimensions were deliberately engineered to maximize interior spaciousness. A primary design focus was to offer best-in-class rear seat room. This was achieved through the innovative utilization of a compact rear suspension system, coupled with a high rear roofline and deck. These design choices ensured that rear passengers were treated to generous head and legroom, comfortably accommodating up to three adults.
Trunk capacity was also a strong consideration. The I30 provided over 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space, further enhanced by a wide trunk opening and a low liftover height, making loading and unloading luggage or groceries easier. The inclusion of a standard rear seat armrest pass-through added practicality, allowing for the convenient transport of longer items such as skis, further broadening the vehicle’s utility.
Inside, the I30’s interior was meticulously crafted to merge sophistication with comfort, incorporating state-of-the-art ergonomics. The instrument panel was designed to be large and user-friendly, featuring soft, tactile surfaces and easy-to-read analog gauges. Simulated wood trim accents were standard, and an available leather-appointed model further elevated the sense of luxury and refinement within the cabin.
The seating design in the I30 prioritized passenger comfort, particularly for long journeys. The 8-way power driver’s seat and four-way front passenger’s seat included an integrated “extended pelvic lumbar support.” This advanced ergonomic feature was engineered to provide comprehensive support to both the pelvis and lumbar regions of the back, effectively reducing fatigue during extended drives and significantly enhancing passenger comfort.
Drivetrain and Suspension: Performance and Technology
Performance and technology were key differentiators for the INFINITI I30 in the mid-luxury segment. Where some competitors in this class might have compromised on these aspects compared to larger luxury sedans, the I30 aimed to deliver a driving experience comparable to the flagship Q45. This ambition was realized through the integration of an all-new engine and an innovative suspension design.
At the heart of the I30 was a 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, representing a next-generation powerplant design. Developed using advanced computer modeling techniques, this engine was engineered to produce smooth, V8-like power delivery and performance while maintaining fuel economy figures comparable to some four-cylinder engines.
The engine block itself was constructed from lightweight, compact aluminum, and engineers meticulously re-evaluated every system and function to minimize friction. This focus on friction reduction across the engine enhanced fuel efficiency, smoothness, and responsiveness. Advanced racing technologies were incorporated, including micro-finishing of the camshaft and crankshaft, molybdenum coating on piston skirts, and the use of small piston skirt areas and thin piston rings.
The I30 engine also featured a novel two-stage cross-flow cooling system. This system was designed to prevent engine knock, reduce emissions, minimize cold-start issues, and improve the vehicle’s heating system performance. Durability and reduced maintenance were further enhanced through the use of platinum spark plugs, a chain camshaft drive (instead of a belt), and a digital knock control system. Importantly, the engine was designed to meet OBD-II standards, facilitating easier diagnosis of potential issues. This is particularly relevant for owners today looking to maintain or repair their vehicles using modern diagnostic tools.
With an output of 190 horsepower and 205 ft-lbs of torque, this advanced engine propelled the I30 from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.0 seconds, according to independent testing. Despite this performance, the I30 also achieved impressive fuel economy. The 5-speed manual transmission version offered 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the electronically controlled 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission achieved 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
Handling and ride comfort were also engineered to emulate the Q45, utilizing an innovative 4-wheel independent suspension system. INFINITI engineers developed an all-new rear suspension specifically for the front-wheel-drive I30. This system, known as the Multi-Link Beam™ suspension, was designed to maximize handling and stability by minimizing camber change during cornering. It cleverly combined aspects of both multi-link and torsion beam suspension designs through a patented lateral link/control rod system. This configuration helped maintain tire perpendicularity to the road, enhancing stability and control, while also providing excellent body stability.
Ride comfort was further refined through significantly reduced suspension friction and the use of softer bushings, springs, and shock absorbers. Noise transmission from the road to the cabin was also reduced due to fewer suspension mounting points compared to a conventional strut-type rear suspension. The compact design of the Multi-Link Beam suspension also contributed to the improved rear seat packaging and spaciousness mentioned earlier.
The front suspension utilized a MacPherson strut-type design with sophisticated subframe-located mountings. This design choice aimed to enhance stiffness and isolate noise and vibration, contributing to a smoother and quieter ride.
Safety and Security Features
Safety was a paramount consideration in the design of the 1997 INFINITI I30. The vehicle’s body structure was engineered using NASA stress analysis computer programs to create a rigid body shell that met the stringent 1997 Federal side impact standards. Standard safety features included driver and front-passenger air bags, height-adjustable front shoulder belt anchors, ALR/ELR seat belt retractors for front passenger and rear outboard seating positions, child-safety rear door locks, front and rear crumple zones, an energy-absorbing steering column, and knee bolsters.
Active safety features were integral to the I30’s design, stemming from the responsive power and handling provided by the advanced engine and suspension systems. Standard four-wheel disc brakes with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) further enhanced active safety.
Personal security was addressed with a standard 8-way keyless remote entry and security system, complete with two transmitters. This system allowed for remote locking and unlocking of doors, trunk lid release, interior lighting activation, lowering of front windows, and a panic alarm feature.
For enhanced security and convenience, higher trims like the Leather-Appointed and Touring models included the Integrated HomeLink™ Transmitter system as standard. This system allowed owners to control up to three RF-activated devices such as garage doors, estate gates, and home lighting systems directly from the driver’s seat, with controls integrated into the driver’s side sun visor.
Luxury Features and Model Availability
The 1997 INFINITI I30 was available with a comprehensive array of luxury and convenience features. Standard equipment included a CFC-free air conditioning system with automatic temperature control, power windows with a driver’s side auto-down feature, power door locks with a selective unlocking feature, a power antenna, power trunk and fuel filler door releases, and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted switches.
Every I30 was equipped with an advanced 200-watt Bose® audio system featuring six speakers, a CD player, and a cassette deck, specifically engineered for the I30’s interior acoustics, providing a high-fidelity audio experience.
The standard I30 model offered a choice between a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. For standard I30s equipped with automatic transmission, a power sliding glass sunroof was available as an option.
The Leather-Appointed I30 model elevated the luxury and comfort quotient further. Standard features included automatic transmission, leather-appointed interior, a power sliding glass sunroof, an automatic anti-glare inside rearview mirror, and the Integrated HomeLink™ Transmitter. Optional features for this model included a Traction Enhancement System with Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) and a Heated Seats Package, which also included heated outside mirrors and a heavy-duty battery.
For buyers seeking a sportier driving experience, the I30 Touring Model, designated as the I30t, was available, mirroring the Touring packages offered on the Q45 and J30. The I30t added more aggressive all-season tires, a sport-tuned suspension with firmer struts and shock absorbers, performance forged alloy wheels, the Traction Enhancement System (including the Heated Seats Package), and a rear decklid spoiler. I30t buyers could choose between the standard 5-speed manual transmission or the optional 4-speed automatic.
The 1997 I30 offered a palette of eight exterior colors: White Platinum, Beige Pebble, Black Obsidian, Crimson Pearl, Blue Cobalt, Cypress Pearl, Silver Amethyst, and Desert Rose. Interior color choices included White, Beige, and Black leather appointments, as well as Beige or Slate cloth options.
Warranty and Ownership Experience
INFINITI underscored its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction with comprehensive warranties for the I30. These included a 4-year/60,000-mile Basic New Vehicle Limited Warranty, a 6-year/70,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty covering major engine and driveline components, a 5-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle Emission Control Limited Warranty, and a 7-year/unlimited mileage Corrosion Limited Warranty.
As part of the Total Ownership Experience®, INFINITI provided buyers with a 48-month, 24-hour roadside assistance program, considered one of the most comprehensive available. Participating dealers also offered a complimentary INFINITI loan car during the basic warranty period when requested with scheduled service appointments, subject to availability. INFINITI’s satellite parts network was designed to minimize service delays, ensuring efficient maintenance and repairs.
Conclusion: A True Luxury Sedan
The 1997 INFINITI I30 stood out as a true luxury sedan, embodying flagship characteristics while remaining accessible to a wider range of buyers. As Thomas H. Eastwood stated, the I30 surpassed what consumers typically expected from vehicles in its class. Its success as a division leader since its debut, combined with the introduction of the redesigned Q45 and the innovative QX4, solidified INFINITI’s remarkable lineup of luxury performance vehicles, all backed by the robust support of The Total Ownership Experience®. For those considering a used luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and features from the late 1990s, the Infiniti I30 remains a compelling option, especially when considering its diagnostic compatibility with OBD-II systems for modern maintenance.
