Infiniti G37 perfect for tech-savvy generation

Lately, I have been on this kick of watching old episodes of The X-Files (the awesome sci-fi show from the ’90s), and it’s so funny to see the characters reading newspaper archives on microfiche and talking on giant, bulky cell phones.

My, how technology has changed over the past 15 years.

These days, most of us couldn’t imagine living without the Internet and cell phones smaller than our hands.

We are a technology- obsessed society. Everything we own absolutely has to be high-tech, from our high-def TVs with DVR to our 3G iPhones.

And, of course, our cars are no exception.

Meet the new 2008 Infiniti G37—the sexy little coupe for the tech-savvy generation.

The G37, which starts at just under $35,000, is a sleek, powerful two-door that offers superior acceleration, smooth, precise handling and some of the best technological features available.

All G37 models are powered by a 3.7-liter, 330-horsepower V-6 engine. The innovative engine design elegantly combines incredibly smooth acceleration with intense power.

The result is a driving experience you won’t soon forget. Normally, when you press down hard on the gas pedal, a vehicle will sharply thrust forward. Not so on the G37. Instead, the acceleration steadily builds and swells, gradually pressing you farther back into your seat – almost like taking off in an airplane.

The G37 also boasts four-wheel active steering, which provides effortless, agile turning and superior control.

Two transmissions are available: a five-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control and optional magnesium paddle shifters, and a six-speed manual. I drove the five-speed automatic and it was fantastic, so I can only imagine how much fun the six-speed manual would be.

While the G37 performs exceptionally well on the road, it’s the advanced technological features on the inside that really make this car particularly suited to the techno-crazed crowd.

First, there’s the available audio system that includes both a Burr Brown AM/FM radio with speed-sensitive volume and the 11-speaker Studio on Wheels audio system by Bose (with features such as a six-disc CD changer, MP3 player, advanced front sound projection, and a "Driver’s Audio Stage" setting that focuses sound specifically on the driver).

I’m telling you, this baby is sweet.

Another great feature is the Music Box: a 9.3GB hard drive that enables you to store up to 2,900 songs and arrange them by artist, title, or even mood. Create and store your own playlists right in the car, or insert a compact flash card and listen to your playlists from home.

It’s so cool, you may never want to leave your car. (But you probably should, though.)

Of course, many vehicles offer navigation systems these days. The G37 does as well, but goes a step farther.

In addition to the hard drive navigation system with seven-inch touch screen, voice recognition and Birdview imaging, the G37 is also equipped with XM NAVTraffic (contract required).

This program uses icons, color codes, and three-dimensional building graphics to provide real-time traffic information, such as traffic flow, accidents, and road closures. It also has a lane-guidance feature that shows you which lane to be in when approaching a highway interchange or exit.

Safety is another area that has been greatly improved using new technology. Available intelligent cruise control with the preview-braking accident-avoidance system performs several functions that help keep you safe on the road.

When behind another vehicle, intelligent cruise control adjusts your following distance to keep you cruising at a safe distance behind the car in front of you. It also uses information from the navigation system to control your speed when heading into a turn.

The preview-braking system uses laser sensors to identify sudden braking situations and prepares the brake-assist system for sudden braking before the driver ever hits the brakes.

The G37 is available in three models: Coupe, Coupe Journey, and Coupe Sport 6MT.

The base model Coupe has a starting price of $34,900 (plus $765 freight). The transmission offered on the Coupe is the five-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control (optional paddle shifters are not available on this model).

Standard interior features include power windows/doors/mirrors, automatic climate control, cruise control, trip computer; AM/FM radio with single CD-player, radio data system, MP3 capability, XM satellite radio (contract required) and six speakers; leather-wrapped steering wheel with controls for audio and cruise control; and driver and passenger eight-way power-adjustable leather seats.

Standard safety features include driver and passenger front and side air bags, antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, vehicle stability control, traction control, tire-pressure monitoring system, anti-theft system, and keyless entry.

Other standard features include Intelligent Key technology with pushbutton start, fog lamps, high-intensity discharge headlights, and speed-sensing wipers.

The only available options on Coupe models are an external roof rack, wheel locks, and an engine block heater.

The Coupe Journey, which starts at $35,650 plus freight, adds automatic headlights, dual-zone climate control, and a six-disc CD-changer standard.

Several optional packages are available on the Coupe Journey.

The Technology package adds such features as the intelligent cruise control with preview braking and adaptive headlights.

The Premium package adds such features as the upgraded Burr Brown/Bose audio system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated front seats, heated side mirrors, a power moon roof, and an iPod auxiliary jack.

The Navigation package adds the hard drive navigation aid with XM NAVTraffic and a rear electronic parking aid.

The Sport package adds sport-tuned suspension, performance tires, steering-wheel-mounted magnesium paddle shifters, and dual front sport bucket seats.

The Coupe Sport 6MT, starting at $36,200 plus freight, has the same standard features and options as the Coupe Journey but comes with the six-speed manual transmission.

According to 2008 EPA estimates, Coupe and Coupe Journey models get 18 mpg city/24 highway. Coupe Sport 6MT models get 17 city/26 highway.

I tested a Coupe Journey model with the Premium package ($3,200) and genuine African rosewood trim ($450), for a total package price of $39,365 (including freight).

The Infiniti G37 Coupe really is a phenomenal car, and one that I definitely would consider owning some day.

(And you know, it just makes me wonder how many aliens Mulder and Scully from The X-Files could have caught if they had driven one of these little babies instead of that ugly old government-issue station wagon…)

The automotive columns of Jennifer R. Williams appear regularly in the Star-Telegram. Contact her at autoscribejennifer@yahoo.com.