Auto Highlights of the Month
By: Jay Chen
2009 Infiniti G37 Coupe
Introduced to universal acclaim in the 2008 model year, the
Infiniti G37 Coupe is not a vehicle designed to rest on its laurels. For 2009,
the performance envelope expands with the addition of a new G37x Coupe AWD model
and a new 7-speed automatic transmission (the G37 Coupe is also available with
a 6-speed manual transmission).
The new Infiniti G37x Coupe model utilizes the advanced ATESSA
E-TS all-wheel drive system also found in the Infiniti G37x Sedan AWD, M45x and
M35x AWD, EX35 AWD and new 2009 Infiniti FX AWD models. The 2009 G37 Coupe's new
7-speed automatic transmission features a performance-oriented Drive Sport (DS)
Mode and Downshift Rev Matching. Other enhancements to the G37 Coupe for 2009
include standard Scratch Shield paint (self-healing clearcoat
paint finish), a new Moonlight White exterior color, a redesigned dial-type seat
heater switch and an automatic speed-sensing function for the power door locks.
Every 2009 G37 Coupe comes equipped with a standard 3.7-liter
VQ-series V6 with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift) rated at 330 horsepower
and 270 lb-ft of torque. The VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable
valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side,
enhancing not only performance and response but also emissions and fuel efficiency.
All of these advanced performance systems are wrapped in the
G37's legendary seductive skin, while inside the G37 Coupe blends unique materials
and finishes with traditional Japanese design cues. The G37 Coupe also includes
an extensive list of available technology features, including a touch screen navigation
system with XM NavTraffic Real Time Traffic
information (XM subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor and an available 11-speaker Infiniti
"Studio on Wheels" by Bose audio system with 24-bit Burr
Brown DAC, 3-way door speaker arrays with 10-inch woofers and a9.3GB Music Box
Hard Drive.
At the core of the 2009 Infiniti G37 Coupe's stellar performance
is its advanced 3.7-liter V6 engine with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift).
Rated at 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, the VQ37VHR is based on the award-winning
VQ engine series, named one of the "Ten Best Engines" by Ward's Auto
World magazine for 14 consecutive years.
The G37 Coupe's VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable
valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side
to help improve performance and response. The VVEL intake camshafts, featuring
continuously variable lift control teamed with the Continuously Variable Valve
Timing Control System (CVTCS), allow for a 7,500 rpm redline.
Developed at test circuits throughout Europe
including the famed Nrburgring the G37 Coupe was
conceived as a performance thoroughbred. Handling and ride performance increases
come from the G37 Coupe's enhanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, which has been
stiffened 36% from the previous generation, is lower in overall height and has
a wider front and rear track width.
The G37 Coupe's 4-wheel independent suspension design features
lightweight aluminum components and large front and rear stabilizer bars, increased
spring rates and optimized suspension damping. The front suspension is a double-wishbone
design, with a single pivot lower wishbone and a long upper link.
The G37 Coupe's advanced performance systems are wrapped in a seductive skin,
giving the vehicle a kinetic feeling with emotional surface expression, sweeping
character lines and tight panel gap lines. Exterior highlights include flowing
front fender curves, a wave-style hood, expressive front
fascia with Infiniti's signature double-arch grille and L-shaped High-Intensity
Discharge (HID) xenon headlights with integrated fog lamps. The aluminum hood
is secured by dual latches located at the two front corners to ensure an excellent
fit.
The 2009 G37 Coupe interior design features sophisticated craftsmanship,
with a cockpit-oriented front driver and passenger area, Infiniti signature
"double wave" instrument panel design featuring the Infiniti-signature
analog clock and dramatic, full-length center console with a leather and aluminum-clad
shifter. Infiniti's attention to minor details in 2009 are evidenced by the redesigned,
high quality seat heater knobs with improved tactile feel (heated seats are an
available feature).
Special aluminum-alloy interior trim, inspired by elegant,
handmade Japanese Washi paper, is located across the
instrument panel, on the center console and on the door panels. For 2009, availability
of Genuine African Rosewood is expanded to include G37 Coupe Journey models equipped
with Sport Package.
Available on the G37 Coupe is an Adaptive Front lighting System
(AFS), which automatically controls the headlight lighting pattern according to
steering angle and vehicle speed to help provide better visibility at night.
An Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental
front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors is standard,
along with roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and
rear-seat outboard occupant head protection and roof-mounted side impact supplemental
air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.
The 2009 Infiniti G37 Coupe is available in four models: G37
Coupe, G37 Coupe Journey, G37 Coupe Sport 6MT and G37x Coupe AWD. Several options
and packages are available in addition to the long list of standard features on
all four models. These include the Premium Package, with a power sliding glass
moonroof, 11-speaker Infiniti "Studio on Wheels"
by Bose audio system with Interface System for iPod, memory system (drivers seat, steering wheel
and outside mirrors) with synchronization, power tilt and telescoping steering
wheel, anti-glare rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink
Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, and heated
front seats and door mirrors (standard on G37x).
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