EDMUNDS.COM 2004 INFINITI I35
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Never much of a standout, the I35 is an even harder sell next to the redesigned Maxima that''s bigger, more powerful and less expensive.
Pros
Outstanding V6, pleasant highway ride, spacious cockpit, easy-to-use controls, strong reliability record.
Cons
A few cut-rate interior materials, superceded in performance and spaciousness by the lower-priced Maxima.
What''s New for 2004
All models get a sunroof, power rear sunshade and body side sills as standard equipment.
Overview
Introduction:
The I35 is Infiniti''s entry-level luxury sedan. Last year, it shared the same basic layout with the Nissan Maxima, but for 2004 the Maxima was fully redesigned, while the I35 was carried over with no major changes. With the sporty G35 in the stable, the I35 is meant to appeal to those who want luxury first and foremost. Its prime competition includes the Acura TL and Lexus ES 300. Central to the I35 design is a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes an impressive 255 horsepower and 246 pound-feet of torque. The engine features variable valve timing, a silent timing chain and an electronically controlled throttle. With 255 horses under the hood, the I35 delivers strong acceleration under nearly all circumstances. Infiniti has equipped the I35 with plenty of luxury items. An Infiniti design signature analog clock, Sojourner leather wrapped seats, automatic climate control and a 200-watt Bose stereo system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer top the list. These elements offer plenty of luxury style though we feel there is an overabundance of hard plastic on the center stack that mars an otherwise sumptuous interior. Overall, the I35 isn''t a bad vehicle, but when its own corporate cousin has it beat in nearly every respect, it''s hard to make much of a case for it.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The I35 comes in just one designated trim level, though there are a few options and packages available. Most major features are standard including a 200-watt seven-speaker Bose stereo system with an in-dash six-disc CD-changer; leather seats; a sunroof; one-touch power windows; keyless entry; and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls. Buyers can opt for a cold weather package with heated seats, steering wheel and mirrors and stand-alone items like a navigation system, satellite radio and chrome wheels.
Powertrains and Performance:
The I35 is equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter V6 that churns out 255 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission choice is a four-speed automatic; most vehicles in this class now offer five-speed autos. For such a powerful engine, it does achieve decent mileage with an EPA rating of 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Safety:
Standard safety features include four-wheel antilock disc brakes with BrakeAssist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, dual front-seat side-impact supplemental airbags, dynamic front head restraints and front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters. A traction control system comes standard, and the VDC stability control system is available as part of the sport package. In government crash tests, the I35 has earned four stars in each of NHTSA''s frontal and side-impact categories and an "Acceptable" rating (second highest) from the IIHS in its 40-mph frontal offset crash test.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The interior has an upscale look and feel except for a few choice pieces of cheap plastic. Overall passenger room is excellent with one of the most spacious backseats in the class. The control layout isn''t the most intuitive setup, but nearly all the buttons and switches demonstrate a quality look and feel. Trunk space is commendable as well with 14.9 cubic feet available for cargo.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
The engine provides plenty of thrills, but the excitement is dulled by a steering system that is muted and doesn''t offer much feedback to the driver. The ride quality is forgiving over most surfaces but doesn''t offer the reassuring control of some of its competitors. The I35 offers a pleasant ride overall, but its manners aren''t as refined as those of the class leaders.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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