2003 Infiniti I35 Coupe

New engine, new interior, new styling.And new name., , Introduction, , Out with the Infiniti I30, in with the I35. Major upgrades to Infinitis mid-level sedan make this years I35 more attractive than last years I30. Thats impressive given that last years I30 boasted exceptional handling, a smooth ride, and lots of performance. , , A new 3.5-liter V6 engine replaces last years 3.0-liter engine and that led Infiniti to change the name from I30 to I35. Bigger and more powerful, this new engine is one of the best V6s available from anyone. , , This years changes to the I35 go well beyond a simple engine swap. Also new for 2002: fresh styling, a redesigned interior, a refined suspension, improved brakes, and the availability of an electronic stability program designed to keep drivers in control. , , What hasnt changed is the combination of sports appeal and luxurious accommodations this near-luxury sedan offers. The Infiniti I35 is sportier and provides a more entertaining driving experience than the Lexus ES 300. It is roomier than the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, the new Jaguar X-Type, or the BMW 3 Series sedans. , , Lineup, , Only one model of the Infiniti I35 is available, which retails for $28,750. , , It comes loaded with all the features wed expect to find on a luxury sedan, plus a few surprises. Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps and a power rear sunshade are standard. Also standard are big 17-inch alloy wheels and tires (P215-55HR17), a size normally associated with a sports sedan. , , , Walkaround, , Exterior styling revisions front and rear (grille, lights) are intended to allow the I35 to follow the new Q45 in Infinitis new styling direction. Together with new 17-inch wheels, a new headlamp cluster, and other cues, it looks sportier and more contemporary than the I30. Those headlamps are xenon high-intensity discharge for better visibility. , , Infiniti is Nissans luxury car division and the Infiniti I35 is based on the same basic platform as the superb Nissan Maxima. When Nissan redesigned the Maxima and I30 for 2000, the company made a conscious decision to give each vehicle its own character and image. Designed to offer performance, practicality and value, the Nissan Maxima sports radical styling. , , I35 is more conservative, designed to offer luxury and attention to detail. The Infiniti retailers (the dealerships) are trained to reflect this, offering a higher level of service and attention to the needs of their customers. Infiniti owners demand this. , , The I35 is actually 2 inches longer than the Maxima, but this isnt noticeable from the outside. Unique styling projects elegance. The soft, gentle slope of the hood and front fender line draws your eye to the redesigned front-end treatment that features Infinitis trademark grille and powerful lighting design. The rear-end design is less distinctive than the front, although the taillight treatment adds sparkle. , , Interior, , The I35 offers an elegant interior with handsome leather seats and brilliantly designed ergonomics. An easy car to live with, the Infiniti I35 is roomy and comfortable and easy to operate. It will probably never annoy you. , , 2003 interior changes include new premium leather developed in Florence, faux birds-eye maple trim, and a new analog clock. Italians know fine leather and the I35s seats feel supple and supportive. An eight-way power drivers seat complements a four-way passenger seat. Steering wheel and drivers seat are positioned well and offer plenty of adjustment to ensure a safe, comfortable position for most people. The front seats incorporate an active head restraint system designed to help reduce injury from whiplash by automatically moving the headrest forward to support the head and neck in an accident. By pressing a button, the seat can be programmed to move back automatically whenever the ignition switch is turned off to facilitate easy exit and entry. . , , 2003 also brings a new gauge cluster, s