2007 Infiniti G35 S

In 2003, we named the first-generation Infiniti G35 Motor Trend's Car of the Year. When the second generation came out in 2007, it had enough moxie to make it through to the final cut, but ultimately lost out to the Toyota Camry. Still, it left such a lasting impression that we decided to keep the new G on G3 for a while.

After 12 months, 24 days, and 23,681 miles, how did our 2007 Infiniti G35 Sport stack up?

To many on staff, the G35 is the only serious competitor to the sport-sedan segment's current standard-bearer, the BMW 3 Series. While Lexus and Mercedes-Benz offerings have nearly identical dimensions, equipment, and specifications, when it comes down to the drive, the Infiniti G35 S is one of the few that can really challenge the 3 Series.

This much was clear from the get-go: Early comments ranged from breathless ("It's a blast to wring out") to measured ("Push the chassis hard, and it responds with instant precision; not a squeak, rattle, or any hint of stress to the structure"). Whether doled out in broad, enthusiastic strokes or esoteric encomia, we heaped the praise high.

Staffers were wowed by the eagerness of the G35's 306-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6, snappy five-speed automatic transmission, and significant upgrades to the interior. But not all was perfect. Our notes never failed to mention the G35 Sport's tricky throttle response. Some staffers hated the "lipstick-smearing, coffee-spilling, poking-your-eye-out-with-the-mascara" tip-in that could unleash "lurid fishtails" upon the unsuspecting. Brakes ("rather grabby") and steering ("heavy at low speeds") were the other minor complaints. Sound like the same stones hurled at every modern sports car?

Indeed they are, and some of our staff wouldn't have it any other way. Editor Kiino opined, "Every time I get in the G, I fall back in love with it. It feels far smaller and sportier than it looks-it really comes across as a four-door Z car."

Make that a four-door Z with all the luxury trimmings; every throttle tip-in complaint was balanced by a compliment about the much-improved interior styling and ergonomics.

"Kudos on the steering-column-mounted paddle shifters; no awkward accidental downshifts while turning the wheel. Their size and position make for easy access even if constantly maneuvering, as on mountain twisties," wrote art director Voehringer.

"Build quality is very good, with nice detailing inside and a rich, well-fitted exterior look. The 12-way power-adjustable sport seat let me find a happy driving position and kept me comfortable," logged editor at large St. Antoine before lofting a complimentary grenade squarely at the G's chief rival, "Few cars I've driven are so bursting with buttons yet friendly to use. Are you listening, BMW?"