Infiniti G37 convertible, 2012: Stylish, efficient, confident coupe

Now in its fourth year, the Infiniti G37 convertible is the newest of the three body styles and is among five Infiniti G Series model trims.

Largely unchanged from last year, the 2012 G37 convertible features a good selection of standard features: leather seating, rearview camera, navigation system with hard-drive music storage, XM Satellite Radio with real-time traffic data, an MP3-compatiable sound system and iPod connectivity

Among the most efficient features is the door-mounted button to lower the roof. A Bose audio system is an option as is an advanced climate control system.

The Weekly Driver Test Drive

This is the Infiniti to drive on a country road in warm weather with the top down. But the testing Infiniti G37's best feature is still fun for a short while on a winter's day.

As a convertible, the Infiniti is pretty moderately with the top down and not particularly quiet with its top up.

During a 200-mile trip from Sacramento to the San Francisco Bay Area with the top up, there was a good share of wind rush on the freeway. But it was overshadowed by the car's performance.

With its 325 horsepower V6 and adept handling the G37 convertible drives with extreme confidence. It accelerates with steady power and has superior maneuvering.

Likes:

If you like hardtop convertibles, this one is easy to like. Easy functioning up or down with one button and in either direction in about 20 seconds.

Navigation system is functional and efficient, as is the sound system.

Sharp handling, an Infiniti trademark.

Dislikes:

Like most convertibles, the trunk is small with only marginal space, most restricted by the convertible mechanism.

Little room for backseat passengers.

No spare tire with the convertible model.

Premium gas is required.

Facts & Figures: 2012 Infiniti G convertible

Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 5.8 seconds
Airbags (6): Front and rear head and dual front side-mounted airbags
Antilock brakes: Standard
First aid kit: Not available
Fuel economy: 17 (city), 25 mpg (highway)
Government Safety Ratings: Not tested.
Horsepower: 325
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $46,400.00
Manufacturer's Web site: www.infiniti.com
Price As tested: $56,035.00
Warranty: Bumper to bumper, 10 years/100,000 miles; Powertrain, 5 years/60,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/100,000 miles; Roadside Assistance, 5 years/60,000 miles

What Others Say:

"The extra weight and laughable trunk space might be a stretch for enthusiasts and weekenders, respectively, but the G37 Convertible's ability to deliver the majority of the fixed-roof's strong-suits along with an open-air experience make it the sensible choice." —- Autoblog.

"The G37 Convertible may work wonders with fresh air, but there's a hefty price to pay for its dueling personalities. It weighs more than 400 pounds more than the coupe, which takes the edge off acceleration and puts a little more lead into its road manners."

"The convertible's ride is generally absorbent and compliant. Top up or down, the convertible has an impressively rigid body structure, with only a minimal degree of cowl shake noticed over larger bumps and fast corners." —- ConsumerGuide.com

What The Wife Says:

"It's a lot of fun with the top down, but there's just not much room in the trunk for any practical use."

The Weekly Driver’s Final Words:

"A few weeks before test-driving G37 hardtop convertible, I reviewed its cousin, the G37 IPL or Infiniti Performance Line. It has 18 more horsepower and other sporting features. The G37 hardtop is terrific, and is likely outdone only by its quicker cousin."

All Images © James Raia

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