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2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible Preview

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Khatir Soltani
For 2009, Infiniti is introducing a convertible version of its successful G series. In 30 seconds, this four-passenger sports machine will drop its three-piece folding steel roof to let in the sun.


The Infiniti G was originally introduced to Canada in 2002, featuring the manufacturer's trademark 3.5-litre V6 motor. For 2009, the G's displacement has been bumped to 3.7 litres. Peak power is delivered towards the 7,600 rpm redline; the motor is rated at 325 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 267 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm. Although the 2009 G37 Coupe can be had with all-wheel-drive, the convertible powers the rear wheels only.

Reinforced for both safety and structural rigidity are the body sills, front side member, and windshield pillars. Curtain-type airbags will rise from the side sills and a rear roll bar will pop up if things take a turn for the worse. Alas, structural modifications and roof mechanicals have added about 200 kg to the G37 Convertible, and the rear suspension has been revised accordingly.

Compared to the coupe, the G37 Convertible has a slightly wider rear track and larger overall width to accommodate the hardtop. To access the rear seats, the front seats electrically move forward at the touch of a button. Though the rear passenger space is smaller, the convertible has the same rear headroom as the coupe when the top is up. In this configuration there is a healthy 293 litres of trunk space that unfortunately crumbles to 56 litres when the top is down.

The 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible has two variants that mainly differ by driveline. The Sport 6MT model lets the driver use their left foot and intuition to manipulate a proper manual transmission with 6 speeds. The other available model utilizes an advanced 7-speed automatic transmission. Though not a 'dual clutch' type, this automatic box features paddle shifters, a sports mode, and rev-match downshifts.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada