What Is the Infiniti G37?
The Infiniti G37 is a rear-wheel-drive luxury sport sedan, coupe, and convertible produced by Infiniti — Nissan’s premium automotive brand — from 2007 through 2013. The “G” stands for the G-series sports car lineage, while “37” refers to the 3.7-liter displacement of its VQ37VHR V6 engine.
As the successor to the well-regarded Infiniti G35, the G37 raised the bar with a more powerful engine, sharper handling dynamics, and a more refined interior. It competed head-to-head with the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Cadillac ATS, and was widely praised for delivering a sports-car-like driving experience at a lower cost of entry.
The G37 was eventually replaced by the Infiniti Q50 in 2014, but it remains one of the most popular used luxury sports cars on the market today — praised for its combination of performance, style, and long-term reliability.
💡 Quick Definition: The Infiniti G37 is a 2007–2013 rear-wheel-drive luxury sports car with a 3.7-liter V6, produced in sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles. Known for driver engagement and durability, it remains a top used car pick.
Types & Body Styles of the Infiniti G37
The Infiniti G37 was offered in three distinct body styles across its production run, each with its own character and trim hierarchy:
1. G37 Sedan (V36)
The G37 Sedan was introduced in 2009 (replacing the G35 sedan) and offered the most practical daily-use experience. It featured four doors, a full rear seat, and a trunk — while still delivering sports car performance. Available in Journey, x AWD, Sport, and Sport 6MT trims.
2. G37 Coupe (CV36)
The G37 Coupe launched in 2007 as the first G-series with the new VQ37VHR engine. With a lower, sleeker roofline and 2+2 seating, the coupe is the most desirable body style among enthusiasts. Available in Journey, Sport, and Sport 6MT configurations.
3. G37 Convertible (CV36)
The G37 Convertible debuted in 2009 with a retractable hardtop roof. While heavier than the coupe, it offered open-air luxury at a competitive price. Available in Journey and Sport trims. Note: the convertible has slightly lower reliability scores due to roof mechanism complexity.
4. G37x (AWD Models)
Infiniti offered an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant called the G37x, available on both the sedan and coupe. Ideal for buyers in snow-prone regions, the G37x adds the ATTESA E-TS AWD system while retaining most of the driving dynamics.
5. G37 IPL (Infiniti Performance Line)
Launched in 2011, the G37 IPL Coupe was a factory performance package featuring 348 hp, upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and exclusive exterior treatments. Rarest and most desirable variant for collectors.
Infiniti G37 Engine Specs & Performance
The heart of the Infiniti G37 is the legendary VQ37VHR 3.7-liter V6 engine, widely regarded as one of the finest naturally-aspirated engines ever produced. Ward’s Auto named the VQ engine to its “10 Best Engines” list multiple times.
| Spec | Standard (RWD) | Sport (6MT) | G37 IPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.7L VQ37VHR V6 | 3.7L VQ37VHR V6 | 3.7L VQ37VHR V6 |
| Horsepower | 325 hp @ 7,000 rpm | 330 hp @ 7,000 rpm | 348 hp @ 7,400 rpm |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft | 276 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 7-speed Auto | 6-speed Manual | 7-speed Auto / 6MT |
| 0–60 mph | 5.3 seconds | 5.1 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) | 155 mph (limited) | 155+ mph |
| Fuel Economy | 17 city / 24 hwy | 17 city / 23 hwy | 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Drive System | RWD / AWD (x) | RWD only | RWD only |
| Redline | 7,500 rpm | 7,500 rpm | 7,500 rpm |
⚙️ VVEL Technology: The VQ37VHR uses Nissan’s proprietary VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) system — a continuously variable valve lift mechanism that improves both power and fuel efficiency. This technology is unique to the G37 and its derivatives.
✅ Infiniti G37 Best Years to Buy
After analyzing owner reports, NHTSA data, Consumer Reports surveys, and professional reviews, the following model years stand out as the best Infiniti G37 years to purchase:
Third model year for the coupe, first refinement cycle complete. Most early-production gremlins resolved. Excellent reliability record and widely available parts.
IPL model introduced, further suspension refinement across the lineup. One of the lowest complaint rates on NHTSA. Strong resale and parts availability.
Updated technology, Sport Package refinements, and a clean reliability slate. Low complaint volume. One of the best value propositions for used car buyers today.
The last G37 before the Q50 era. Fully mature platform with minimal issues. Slightly higher price used, but represents the pinnacle of the nameplate.
Why 2010 Is the #1 Recommended Year
The 2010 Infiniti G37 hits the optimal used-car sweet spot: old enough to have shed any early production issues, but modern enough to have updated electronics and safety features. By 2010, Infiniti had resolved the VVEL system complaints that affected some 2008 vehicles and the minor transmission calibration concerns of 2009. Owners consistently report fewer unscheduled repairs and high satisfaction with the powertrain durability.
Furthermore, the 2010 model introduced refined Sport suspension tuning, improved cabin materials, and an enhanced Bose audio system. Used prices in 2024 are favorable, making this an outstanding value for any budget-conscious enthusiast buyer.
❌ Infiniti G37 Worst Years to Avoid
While the G37 is generally a reliable car, certain model years had documented problems that make them less attractive for used car buyers:
Most reported issues: VVEL system failures, transmission shudder under load, and inconsistent build quality. Highest complaint volume of any G37 year on NHTSA.
Coupe only. First-year production issues including minor oil consumption and early software bugs in the multi-function display. Not ideal unless well-maintained with service records.
Introduction of the sedan body style. Some transition-year quality control issues on sedans. Coupes from this year are generally more reliable. Proceed with inspection.
🚨 2008 Warning: The 2008 Infiniti G37 has the highest NHTSA complaint rate in the lineup. Common issues include VVEL actuator failures (expensive to repair — $1,500–$3,500), 7-speed automatic transmission hesitation, and rattling interior trim. If buying a 2008, ensure a full pre-purchase inspection has been completed.
Why 2008 Is the Worst Year
The 2008 Infiniti G37 was technically the second year of the coupe’s production but the first full calendar year on dealer lots. As Infiniti scaled up production, some quality control issues crept in. The primary concern is the VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) system, which can develop actuator faults that trigger check engine lights and reduce power output significantly.
Additionally, the 7-speed automatic transmission in early G37 models was not perfectly calibrated, leading to hesitation on acceleration — a frustrating problem that was resolved via software updates in later years. Buyers who want a 2008 should verify all service bulletins have been applied.
Year-by-Year Infiniti G37 Reliability Ratings
The following reliability ratings are based on aggregated data from NHTSA complaints, Consumer Reports, JD Power Initial Quality surveys, and community data from G37 owner forums:
Scores out of 10 — composite of NHTSA complaints (lower is better), owner satisfaction surveys, and frequency-of-repair data.
Common Problems & Issues with the Infiniti G37
Understanding the most common Infiniti G37 problems helps buyers negotiate pricing and avoid costly surprises. Here are the key issues by category:
🔧 Engine Problems
- Oil Consumption: Some G37 engines consume oil between changes, particularly in early 2007–2009 models. Monitor oil levels closely and budget for top-ups.
- Timing Chain Noise: A rattling sound at startup can indicate timing chain stretch. This affects higher-mileage units (100,000+ miles) and can cost $1,200–$2,500 to repair.
- VVEL Actuator Failure (2007–2009): The Variable Valve Event and Lift actuator can fail, triggering a P0011/P0021 code and limp mode. Repair costs: $1,500–$3,500.
- Carbon Buildup (Direct Injection): Like many direct-injection engines, the VQ37 can develop carbon deposits on intake valves over time. Walnut blasting every 80,000 miles is recommended.
⚙️ Transmission Problems
- 7-Speed Auto Shudder (2007–2009): The RE7R01A transmission can exhibit shudder or hesitation, especially on light throttle. A fluid flush with OEM NS-3 fluid often resolves this.
- Manual Transmission Synchro Wear: Hard-used 6-speed manuals can develop rough 2nd-gear synchro engagement. Pre-purchase inspection recommended.
🛞 Suspension & Steering
- Front Strut Mount Noise: Clunking or creaking from the front suspension, typically from worn strut mount bearings. Affordable fix at ~$150–$300 per side.
- Rear Subframe Bushing Wear: Sport model rear subframe bushings can deteriorate on high-mileage units, causing handling vagueness.
💡 Electrical Problems
- Multi-Function Display (MFD) Failure: The center console display can develop dead pixels or go completely dark. Replacement units are available but can be pricey.
- Navigation System Lag: Older navigation software is notoriously slow. Most owners use smartphone-based navigation as a workaround.
🚗 Other Issues
- Premature Brake Wear: The G37 Sport’s Brembo brakes perform excellently but require more frequent pad changes than average due to the car’s weight and performance potential.
- Interior Trim Rattles: Some owners report minor rattles from door panels and dashboard trim, particularly in high-mileage units.
- Climate Control Malfunctions: Occasionally the automatic climate control can act erratically; a software reset usually resolves it.
Advantages of the Infiniti G37
- Outstanding engine: The VQ37VHR is a Ward’s 10 Best Engine winner — naturally aspirated, reliable, and rewarding to drive.
- Driver-focused dynamics: Sharp steering, balanced chassis, and a sport-tuned suspension rival BMW 3 Series handling.
- Excellent value: Used prices are far lower than comparable German luxury cars, yet the experience is comparable.
- Strong aftermarket: Huge modding community with abundant performance and OEM parts.
- Distinctive styling: Timeless design that still looks modern and premium over a decade later.
- Multiple body styles: Sedan, coupe, and convertible options for every lifestyle.
- High-rev naturally aspirated engine: 7,500 rpm redline delivers a true sports car soundtrack.
- Comfortable interior: Well-appointed cabin with Bose audio, leather, and navigation standard on many trims.
- Proven longevity: Well-maintained G37s routinely reach 200,000+ miles.
- AWD option: G37x models provide all-weather capability without sacrificing fun.
- Fuel economy: 17 mpg city is below average for a non-performance V6.
- Rear seat space: Especially in coupes, rear passengers face tight legroom.
- Carbon buildup: Direct injection requires periodic intake cleaning.
- Tech is dated: 2007–2013 infotainment feels old by today’s standards.
- VVEL risk (early years): 2007–2009 VVEL issues can be expensive if unresolved.
- Convertible roof mechanism: Complex retractable hardtop can develop issues.
- Sport trim brakes: Require more frequent replacement than standard models.
- High insurance costs: Classified as a sports car, insurance premiums reflect this.
Is the Infiniti G37 Safe to Drive?
The Infiniti G37 safety ratings are strong for its era. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) both tested the G37 across multiple years, with consistently above-average results.
NHTSA Safety Ratings (Overall)
| Category | Sedan | Coupe |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Frontal Crash | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Side Crash | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rollover | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Standard Safety Features (All Years)
- Front and side airbags (driver and passenger)
- Side curtain airbags for both rows
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with electronic brake-force distribution
- Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) — Infiniti’s stability control system
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Pre-tensioned front seatbelts with force limiters
- Rearview camera (added standard in 2012+)
The G37 is generally considered very safe for its class and era. The sedan achieved a rare 5-star overall NHTSA rating. The only area where the G37 lags modern vehicles is the absence of autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane-keep assist — systems that weren’t standard in this era.
✅ Safety Verdict: The Infiniti G37 is safe by the standards of its generation. Its NHTSA 5-star sedan rating and IIHS “Good” marks on most tests make it one of the safer used luxury cars in its price range.
How to Buy a Used Infiniti G37 — Step-by-Step
Buying a used Infiniti G37 is a smart decision when done properly. Follow these steps to avoid costly mistakes:
Step 1 — Choose Your Year and Body Style
Prioritize 2010–2012 for best reliability. Choose sedan for daily use and practicality, coupe for style and driver experience, or convertible for open-air enjoyment. Avoid 2007–2008 unless the price reflects the additional risk.
Step 2 — Obtain a Vehicle History Report
Run a CARFAX or AutoCheck report on any prospective G37. Look for: flood damage, salvage title, number of owners, and accident history. Avoid any G37 with more than 2 owners at 100,000 miles without excellent service records.
Step 3 — Verify Service History
Key services to verify: oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles, transmission fluid flush at 60,000 miles, spark plugs at 100,000 miles, and coolant flush. A G37 with documented maintenance is worth significantly more than an undocumented one.
Step 4 — Conduct a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI)
Always pay an independent Infiniti-knowledgeable mechanic $100–$150 to inspect the car. Specifically ask them to check: VVEL actuator function, timing chain condition, oil consumption test, transmission behavior, and undercarriage for rust.
Step 5 — Test Drive Protocol
- Cold start — listen for timing chain rattle
- Let it warm up fully — check for smoke from exhaust
- Hard acceleration from 30–60 mph — feel for transmission shudder
- Highway driving — check for vibrations above 65 mph
- Braking from 60 mph — feel for pulsation or pull
Step 6 — Negotiate with Data
Use KBB, Edmunds, and CarGurus to establish fair market value. For a 2010–2012 G37 with under 80,000 miles, expect to pay $12,000–$20,000 depending on condition, trim, and body style. Early models (2007–2008) with high mileage can be found for $7,000–$11,000 but carry more risk.
Final Verdict — Infiniti G37 Year-by-Year Summary
The Infiniti G37 remains one of the finest used sports sedans and coupes available today. Its VQ37VHR engine is a proven, robust powerplant. When you focus on the 2010–2013 model years, you get a car with excellent reliability, thrilling performance, premium features, and outstanding long-term value.
The 2010 G37 Coupe Sport 6MT and 2012 G37 Sedan Sport represent the absolute pinnacle of what this platform offers — and both can be purchased today for a fraction of what comparable German alternatives cost to buy, maintain, and repair.
Frequently Asked Questions — Infiniti G37
The 2010 and 2012 Infiniti G37 are widely considered the best years to buy. The 2010 resolved early production issues, while the 2012 represents the most mature and refined version of the platform. Both offer excellent reliability, strong performance, and good used-car value.
The 2008 Infiniti G37 is widely cited as the worst year due to VVEL actuator failures, transmission calibration issues, and higher-than-average NHTSA complaints. The 2007 (first year) is also risky for similar first-production reasons. Both can be acceptable purchases with thorough pre-purchase inspections, but require careful vetting.
Yes — the Infiniti G37 is generally considered above-average in reliability. RepairPal rates the G37 with a 4 out of 5 reliability score. The VQ37VHR engine is known to last 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance. The 2010–2013 model years in particular have excellent reliability records. Key maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid services, and spark plug replacement at 100,000 miles.
A well-maintained Infiniti G37 can easily last 200,000 miles or more. There are documented examples on G37 owner forums with 250,000–300,000 miles on the original engine. The keys to longevity are: consistent oil changes (5,000–7,500 mile intervals with full synthetic), transmission fluid flushes every 60,000 miles, and addressing timing chain or VVEL issues promptly.
The most common Infiniti G37 problems include: VVEL actuator failures (mainly 2007–2009), oil consumption, timing chain rattle at high mileage, 7-speed automatic transmission shudder (early models), carbon buildup on intake valves, and multi-function display screen failures. Most of these are manageable and well-documented within the owner community.
Absolutely. The G37 sedan in particular is excellent for daily driving. It offers a comfortable ride (especially in Journey trim vs. the stiffer Sport suspension), adequate rear-seat room for adults, a proper trunk, and modern technology. The coupe is sportier and more driver-focused but less practical. Fuel economy of 17–24 mpg is acceptable for a performance V6 luxury car.
The G37 Sport trim adds: a sport-tuned suspension (lower, firmer), 19-inch wheels (vs. 18″ standard), Brembo front brakes, a limited-slip differential on RWD models, upgraded leather sport seats with better bolstering, and the option for a 6-speed manual transmission. The Sport produces 330 hp vs. 325 hp (auto) due to a performance exhaust. It handles more sharply but rides more firmly.
Used Infiniti G37 prices in 2024 range roughly as follows: 2007–2008 models: $7,000–$11,000; 2009 models: $9,000–$14,000; 2010–2012 models: $12,000–$20,000; 2013 models: $14,000–$22,000. Sport trims, low-mileage examples, and manual transmissions command premiums. IPL models are rarer and priced accordingly.
The Infiniti G37 is moderately expensive to maintain — less so than German luxury cars but more than mainstream Japanese brands. RepairPal estimates average annual repair costs of approximately $540 per year. Oil changes run $80–$120 with full synthetic. Major services like timing chain or VVEL repair can run $1,500–$3,500, but these are relatively rare on well-maintained units.
The G37 Coupe (2007–2013) is the most driver-focused, with 2+2 seating and the sportiest dynamics — available with a 6MT. The G37 Sedan (2009–2013) offers four full doors, more rear room, and a larger trunk — ideal for families. The G37 Convertible (2009–2013) features a retractable hardtop, open-air driving, but is heavier and has slightly reduced trunk space. The convertible also has slightly lower reliability due to roof mechanism complexity.
Yes. The G37x models feature Infiniti’s ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system, which is rear-biased (up to 50% front torque) and provides excellent all-weather traction. AWD is available on both the sedan and coupe. Note: AWD is not available with the 6-speed manual transmission — all G37x models use the 7-speed automatic.
For most buyers, the G37 represents better overall value than a comparable used BMW 3 Series. While BMW’s handling dynamics are class-defining, used BMW maintenance costs are significantly higher (turbocharged engines, more complex electronics, higher parts costs). The G37 offers 90% of the BMW driving experience at 60% of the long-term ownership cost. For buyers who prioritize minimizing repair bills, the G37 is the smarter choice.
