2011 Infiniti G37 IPL: Peak Infiniti Performance and Quirks

The Zenith of Infiniti: G37 IPL

• 🚀 The 2011 Infiniti G37 IPL is presented as the pinnacle of Infiniti's past era of making cool, desirable, and exciting cars.
• 💡 This specific G37 IPL model, available on CARS & BIDS, represents the top-tier offering with enhanced handling, sportier styling, and increased power.

Evolution of the Infiniti G

• 🚗 The Infiniti G lineage began in the 90s with the front-wheel-drive G20, but transformed in 2003 with the rear-wheel-drive G35.
• 🌟 The G35 was a groundbreaking Japanese competitor to the BMW 3 Series, built on the same platform as the Nissan 350Z and Infiniti FXS SUV.
• 📈 The second generation, the G37, launched in '07 (sedan) and '08 (coupe), featured a larger 3.7L VQ V6 engine producing 330 horsepower.

IPL Performance Line Upgrades

• 🔥 Introduced in 2011, the Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) aimed to rival BMW's M division, with the G37 coupe and convertible being the first and only IPL models.
• ⚡ The IPL G37 received a power boost to 350 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, with "IPL" branding under the hood.
• 💨 Exterior enhancements include a more aggressive front bumper, sportier rear bumper, and larger factory exhaust tips for a more exciting sound.
• ⚙️ Distinctive 19-inch wheels and sportier suspension were also part of the IPL package, along with reportedly tuned, more direct steering.

Interior and Exterior Details

• 🎨 Exterior color options were limited to Graphite Shadow, white, and Malbec Black, a deep cherry purple-black that shifts in sunlight.
• 🔑 A unique exterior quirk is the hidden trunk release button integrated into the driver's side taillight.
• 🛋️ The interior features a mix of materials, including attractive brushed aluminum and less impressive cheap hard plastic in the center console.
• 💡 A humorous quirk is the heated seat controls, where a light on the dial brightens as the seat gets hotter.
• 🕰️ An analog clock is present in the center stack, intended to add a touch of class.
• 📱 The infotainment system, despite its age, is a responsive touchscreen with Bluetooth and a surprisingly good backup camera.
• 🕹️ The gauge cluster screen is basic black and white, controlled by unusual buttons located on the back of the cluster.
• 🔊 Despite some material inconsistencies, the overall interior feel and design are surprisingly high quality for the era.

Practicality and Legacy

• 🤏 The rear seats in the coupe are small with limited headroom due to the roofline, featuring two seats and a small storage tray with cup holders.
• 🧳 The trunk is fairly large but has a high floor due to the spare tire, though it's capable of fitting two golf bags as indicated by a factory diagram.
• 🛠️ A latch in the cargo area allows for folding the rear seats, enhancing cargo versatility.
• 📉 The IPL brand and the G37 line ultimately faded as buyer tastes shifted towards SUVs, with the G37 coupe becoming the Q60 and the sedan the Q50, both eventually discontinued.
• 💔 Infiniti's current lineup is seen as a shadow of its former self, lacking performance branding and facing an uncertain future.

Driving Experience and Conclusion

• 🕹️ The 3.7L V6 engine is praised for its reliable power delivery across the rev range, especially compared to other engines of its era.
• ⚙️ The manual transmission offers short, precise shifts, though the clutch is noted as slightly heavy and kinked.
• 💨 A drawback is noticeable rev hang, where engine revs don't drop quickly enough between shifts.
• 🛣️ Handling is described as good for its class, with predictable and precise steering, offering a fun driving experience even today.
• 💯 The 2011 Infiniti G37 IPL is remembered as proof of Infiniti's past excellence, delivering a compelling blend of performance, reliability, and value, earning a DougScore of 53/100.