2002 Infiniti I35 in Columbus, GA - $0

The resurgence of the Infiniti brand in recent years produced a string of hit products -- G35 coupe/sedan, FX 35/45 and the new QX56 SUV to name a few. In the midst of all the hoopla, the automaker's I35 sedan goes about its business -- quietly, elegantly -- with style and value.

The segment in which the I35 competes is a cutthroat arena with plenty of world-class vehicles vying for the hearts, minds and wallets of the American motorist. For 2004, Infiniti adds the following equipment to the sedan's already long list of amenities: power sunroof, power rear sunshade and body side sills. Desert Platinum is added to the exterior color palette for 2004 as well as pre-wiring for satellite radio.

The I35 sedan is pure refinement, powerfully stated. Offered in the well-appointed Luxury trim level, the optional equipment list is a short one -- with just two accessory package options -- Cold Weather Pkg., and Navigation Pkg., two satellite radio equipment options (XM or Sirius), splash guards, rear spoiler, trunk mat and sunroof wind deflector.

The Cold Weather Package includes heated front and rear seats, heated outside mirrors and heated steering wheel. The Navigation Package includes the Infiniti DVD-based Navigation system, power retractable LCD screen, CD-ROM database and six-disc CD changer in the trunk.

The I35's incredible 3.5L V-6 engine is bolted to an equally impressive four-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode and overdrive. On the road, the drivetrain delivers a silky smooth, fluid performance. It is always responsive, with flat handling in the twisties for easy long distance driving.

An all-steel unibody construction serves as the platform for the suspension hardware. Up front, an independent strut with coil springs and stabilizer bar works with a multi-link beam and stabilizer bar in the rear to facilitate handling and control characteristics that are composed at all times.

Inside the cabin, driver and passengers alike are coddled in world-class comfort. The steering wheel mounted controls are wonderful. Thoughtful touches abound throughout the passenger compartment. Seating fore and aft is very comfortable. The rear seat is a split 60/40 fold down that maximizes the available trunk space.

Outward visibility is good. The adjustable center armrest is a big plus for short drivers. The releases for the fuel filler door and trunk lid are conveniently built into the side of the driver's door armrest.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 108.3; overall length: 193.7; width: 70.2; height: 57.0 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V-6 -- 255 hp at 5,800 rpm and 246 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed electronically controlled automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 19 city/26 highway using premium unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 14.9 cubic feet.

Safety features

Traction control, four-wheel disc brakes with antilock, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, xenon high intensity discharge headlights, fog lights, remote keyless entry, HomeLink universal transceiver, dual front airbags, dual front seat mounted side-impact airbags, pipe-style steel side-door beams, vehicle security system, battery saver, trunk mounted first aid kit and vehicle immobilizer system. Optional safety equipment includes a full size spare tire and the Infiniti navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/60,000 mile, limited.

Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile.

Corrosion: 7-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 4-year/unlimited, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2004 Infiniti I35 sedan starts at $30,600, with destination charges adding $545.

As tested

2004 Infiniti I35 sedan

Exterior color: Black Obsidian

Interior color: Black

Tires: Bridgestone Turanza EL42

Tire Size: P215/55R17

Base price $30,600

Destination charge $ 545

Trunk mat $ 60

2-piece rear splash guards $ 80

Sunroof wind deflector $ 70

Cold Weather package $ 700

Total as tested $32,055

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