Product review: G37 Convertible Factory Accessories

Function, at a cost...

With the hype if the G37 drop top release slowly softening, it is now time to look at what add-ons Infiniti plans on offering for their first vert since the M30.

It doesn’t take much to realize that Infiniti, along with other manufactures, are spending much less time now-a-days thinking about what accessories to offer. The automotive accessory industry has been hit hard by the current economic climate. Mid-tier luxury brands like Audi, Acura and Infiniti were never big players in the factory accessory business to begin with, let alone now with decreased consumer spending. Models like the first generation G35 Coupe and Sedan offered a bright spot for Infiniti dealership Parts Departments, including many factory accessories and performance related items produced by the aftermarket sector.

Now, with the advent of the next generation G Coupes and Sedans this offering has become extremely slender. With Infiniti pre-loading most of these vehicles with satellite radio, spoilers and iPod integration, the window of opportunity for accessories is closing if not already sealed shut. However, to much of the surprise of Infiniti dealers across the US, Infiniti has offered some factory accessories for the new G37 Convertible. Here is our take:

Most wanted: The G37 Convertible Wind Screen-

Infiniti brings us their version of the iconic Mercedes SL500 accessory. This one does a nice job of folding into a quaint little 3’X2’ package that fits snugly into the trunk. Definitely a must have unless you’re looking for the “Donald-Trump-getting-off-a-helicopter” look. This add on will also help your dash from looking like the bottom of a Swiffer pad. MSRP: $530.00

Most Interesting: 19-inch 9-spoke Aluminum-alloy Wheels

What? Infiniti is offering a factory accessory wheel package? Not since the beautiful “diamond cut” alloy wheels for the M models (which were a disaster) has Infiniti offered an accessory wheel. We are surprised and happy to see the boys at the factory actually make a valiant effort with these wheels. The price isn’t too outrageous either, of course it still requires stacks more than what would cost you on the aftermarket arena. None the less, we’re proud (tear). MSRP: $530.00 Ea.

Most Celebrated: Midnight Black Grille

Already being sold for the M and G Sedans, the midnight grille has been a very popular accessory. It adds some differentiation and spunk to the look of the vehicle. With the factory quality being light years ahead of what is available in the aftermarket, the factory midnight grille is a refreshing and value added compliment to the vehicle. MSRP: $320.00

Most Questionable: R Spec™ High Friction Brake Pads

We’re still trying to figure this one out. Why offer a “high performance” brake pad for a convertible? We’re not sure if this counts as the official release of the R-Spec product line or Infiniti sees a problem with the softness of their assembly line brake pad. It is interesting to see this offered but the verdict will be out, most likely for quite a while. Unless you plan on a track event (like IOS Trackdays, which is free to anyone who purchases their G at Infiniti of Scottsdale) these will most likely not be a necessity. Since us parts guys have a skewed perspective of parts and demand, we could always be wrong. MSRP: 187.48 front set, $64.77 rear set

Most Over Priced: Premium Carpeted Floor Mats

An Infiniti design guy says to marketing, “Hey we need a special thick carpeted mat for the G convertible.” Infiniti marketing guy says, “Great idea design guy, let’s do it!” Infiniti design guy says “Here you go! All mats feature a non-slip backing with carpet locking nibs to help hold mats in place, the driver's mat features a grommet/hook retention system and they are available as a 4 piece set in graphite and wheat color.” Infiniti marketing guy says, “Great, so just like the standard ones but thicker. What should we sell them for? I mean, this is premium you know.” Infiniti design guy says, “$290.00 a set! Trust me I came up with the aero kit pricing!” MSRP: $290.00 set

Most Ambiguous: Short Rod Antenna

Are you tired of your 12 inch antenna? If so NOW is the time to buy the sleek 7 inch model! But hurry, dealers are being sent the 7 inch antennas as we speak in order to swap out the 12 inchers! Why this is happening is anyone’s guess, all we know is that there were a limited amount of verts that came with an extra long 12 inch antenna on the trunk lid. We’ll it turned out no one liked them so Infiniti is doing a mini-recall (shh, I didn’t say recall) and providing the dealers with the 7 inch model at no cost. The whole scenario is just weird, but exciting at the same time. Maybe there is something about the 12 inch antennas we don’t know about? MSRP: $106.17

Most Awaited: Rear Spoiler with Integrated Antenna

Once again we must wait for the spoiler to arrive as an accessory. Though they are available pre-installed on many Verts in showrooms across the country, it will be awhile before they are an add on item. It’s ok, we’ll wait, and we’re used to it. The spoiler does boast an integrated FM/AM antenna that is nicely concealed eliminated the need for any antenna on the trunk (excluding the XM antenna) thus creating well deserved karma for the 12 inch antenna against the 7 inch antenna. Take that shorty! MSRP: TBD

Items that remain unchanged from the hard top version of the G37 Coupe are:

Illuminated Kick Plates, Factory Carpet Floor Mats and Splash Guards

Thankfully, for those of you who own or about to own the captivating top-less Infiniti model and would like one of these items can visit: www.G35Parts.com.

If you are interested in purchasing a new or pre-owned Infiniti model please visit: www.InfinitiOfScottsdale.com.

In any event we were pleasantly surprised by the selection that is available. Effort is still better than no effort at all. Regardless of the economy and consumer budgets, it is still a very exciting time for Infiniti and their latest rendition of open-air driving.

Nissan Announces Pricing on 2009 NISMO 370z

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) announced pricing for the all-new 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z™, which goes on sale today at Nissan retailers nationwide. The new, second-generation NISMO Z® continues the tradition of the original, offering unique performance and design attributes that true sports car enthusiasts are looking for – including a functional aerodynamic body design, 18 additional horsepower and a special sport-tuned suspension.

The 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z™, which is equipped with a 350-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with SynchroRev Match, has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price* (MSRP) of US $39,130. Only three accessories are available on this well equipped vehicle – NISMO carpeted floor mats, illuminated kick plates and a carpeted trunk mat.

“The new NISMO Z® is a tuner and Z® enthusiast’s dream – straight from the factory,” said Pat Steiner, Director, Specialty Vehicles, Nissan Division, NNA. “With its dramatic exterior, custom interior, sport-tuned performance and under $40,000 price, this new NISMO Z® is possibly the best ‘bang-for-the-buck’ sports car available today.”

About the 2009 NISMO 370Z™
The NISMO 370Z™ was developed by Nissan’s Specialty Vehicles Group in conjunction with Autech Japan, Nissan’s longstanding conversion partner. The NISMO Z®’s standard 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) develops 350 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque (versus the standard 370Z Coupe’s 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque), thanks in part to an exclusive free flow dual exhaust system, muffler tuning and an optimized Engine Control Module.

As expected of a true performance machine, the NISMO 370Z™ is offered with only one transmission – a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with standard SynchroRev Match-the world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission introduced earlier this year on 370Z Coupe (which simulates perfectly matched heel-toe-like downshifting).

The NISMO 370Z™ also features a refined 4-wheel independent suspension, a reinforced strut tower brace for enhanced body rigidity and a pair of performance body dampers to manage road-input vibrations and help contribute to the NISMO 370Z™’s stability and performance feel. The NISMO-tuned suspension includes specially tuned springs, shock absorbers and stabilizer bars. Wider, unique 5-spoke 19-inch RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels are mounted with Yokohama ADVAN Sport Y-rated high-performance tires. Nissan Sport Brakes and a Viscous Limited-Slip Differential are also standard on the NISMO 370Z™.

Along with its standout performance, the new NISMO Z® stands out from the crowd with its dramatic performance-oriented exterior and interior styling. The functional and fully integrated aerodynamic body modifications include an extended nose with a canard design at each corner for improved downforce and a fully integrated chin spoiler. Special side sills and a unique rear fascia help manage airflow under the vehicle, while the functional rear spoiler also increases downforce.

The interior includes NISMO logo seats with black and red fabric and red stitching, a NISMO tachometer, a smooth leather-wrapped steering wheel with red parallel stitching, a smooth leather-wrapped shift knob and aluminum trimmed pedals. A serialized plaque of authenticity is also matched to each NISMO Z®, identifying its unique serial and model year designation.

2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z Pricing

Description MSRP*
370Z Coupe NISMO – 3.7 Liter V6 6 M/T $39,130


Port Installed Accessories MSRP*
NISMO Carpeted Floor Mats $115
Illuminated Kick Plates $200
Carpeted Trunk Mat $95

All-New 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z

– Latest NISMO Z® Hits the Streets in June With 350-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, NISMO-tuned Suspension, Aerodynamic Body and Unique Interior Treatments –

04.07.2009 , Nashville, Tenn.

The all-new, second generation NISMO 370Z, which is set to go on sale at Nissan retailers nationwide in June 2009, continues the tradition of the original by offering unique performance and design attributes that true sports car enthusiasts are looking for – straight from the factory. Like the limited production NISMO 350Z introduced two years earlier, the new NISMO 370Z is a tuner-Z® enthusiast’s dream, featuring a 350-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, racing-inspired exterior and interior styling, a specially tuned suspension and special super-lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels.

The 2009 NISMO 370Z was developed by NNA’s Specialty Vehicles Group in conjunction with Autech Japan, Nissan’s longstanding conversion partner.

“The NISMO name is known throughout the world as the leading supplier of race-bred, factory-tuned, extreme performance Nissan parts, accessories and vehicles,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). “The new, second-generation NISMO Z® proudly – and deservedly – wears the NISMO badge, carrying on the tradition of bringing racing-inspired performance and engineering to the street.”

The all-new NISMO 370Z is offered in one completely equipped model (no options) with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission only.

Dynamic Performance And Handling Comes Standard



The new NISMO 370Z starts with the unmatched foundation of an advanced Nissan FM (Front Midship) platform, refined 4-wheel independent suspension and 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL). The VVEL system helps optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time. For its use in the NISMO 370Z, the 3.7-liter VQ-series V6 produces 350 hp @ 7,400 rpm and 276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm. The NISMO Z®’s enhanced engine power and acceleration is provided through use of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with optimized ECM (Engine Computer Module) control.

The NISMO 370Z is offered only with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with Nissan’s new “SynchroRev Match” function, the world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission system. The “SynchroRev Match” function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention.

The NISMO 370Z features a tight, rigid body structure with a strut tower bar brace and a pair of performance dampers, which quickly and efficiently react to and control body vibrations from road input via the tires, contributing to the NISMO 370Z’s outstanding stability and performance feel.

The NISMO Z®’s double-wishbone front/4-link rear suspension design suspension is specially tuned for exceptional stability and handling. Compared to a standard Nissan 370Z Coupe, front spring rates have been dialed up 15%, rear spring rates 10%, front stabilizer bar rate upped 15% and the rear stabilizer bar is 50% stiffer. The roll stiffness rate has been increased by 15% and front and rear damping factors have been increased by 40% and 140% respectively.



The NISMO 370Z rides on unique 5-spoke Nissan-branded 19-inch RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels (19x9.5-inch front, 19x10.5-inch rear) mounted with Yokohama ADVAN Sport Y-rated high-performance tires (P245/40ZR19 front, P285/35ZR19 rear).

Bringing the NISMO 370Z to a stop are standard NISMO Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear vented rotors with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers. The braking system also includes a variable ratio brake pedal for a more direct pedal stroke feel, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). A Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) is standard on all NISMO 370Zs, along with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).



Responsive steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design that has been reworked (versus the NISMO 350Z design) with redesigned mounting bushings and a column insulator to provide improved response. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced with the use of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load.

Unique NISMO 370Z Exterior and Interior

Along with its standout performance, the new NISMO Z® offers a standout appearance inside and out. The functional and fully integrated aerodynamic body pieces include an extended front nose design with a canard design at each corner for improved downforce and a fully integrated chin spoiler. The NISMO 370Z has an overall length of 174.3 inches.

Special side sills and a unique rear bumper help control airflow under the vehicle, while the functional rear spoiler increases downforce. The NISMO 370Z exterior also includes a wide stance, sculptural fenders, upswept quarter windows, bold “boomerang” shaped headlights and taillights, vertical door handles and aluminum hood, door panels and hatchback. The headlights are a High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon design with an auto on/off feature.

“One look at the dramatic NISMO 370Z body and you know that this isn’t your everyday sports car,” said Castignetti. “The styling is highly emotional yet totally functional – expressing dynamic movement while enhancing airflow and downforce for enhanced aerodynamic performance.”

The NISMO 370Z is offered in five exterior colors: Pearl White, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red and Platinum Graphite.

The NISMO 370Z’s driver-centric interior includes NISMO logo seats with black and red fabric and red stitching, a NISMO tachometer, steering wheel with smooth leather and red parallel stitching, smooth leather-wrapped shift knob and aluminum trimmed pedals. A special serialized plaque of authenticity, located on the vertical panel above the floor-mounted console, is matched to each NISMO Z®, identifying its unique serial and model year designation.



The NISMO 370Z’s 2-seat interior layout is built around a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger’s seat. In the rear is an open cargo area with enhanced storage and accessibility. The instrument panel includes a 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer include an “initial sweep” function, coming alive when the NISMO Z? is first started.

Both the driver and passenger’s seats are structured with an anti-slip material in the main seating surface. The sporty woven cloth seats feature standard 8-way driver’s/4-way passenger manual adjustments. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are standard.

Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Start, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature, a center console box with a new non-intrusive cover design, automatic climate control, rear window defroster with timer, two 12-volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in center console), dual overhead map lights and a AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.

“The NISMO logo is prominent throughout the cabin, reinforcing the mission and special capability of the vehicle,” said Castignetti. “The NISMO Z® is the complete package – inside, outside and under the skin.”

The NISMO Z’s long list of standard safety and security features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted side-impact air bags; seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Infiniti G37 and M Models to Get Direct Injection

Infiniti has told Car & Driver that the upcoming M37 sedan will get direct injection. This might not sound like much, but the technology should easily boost output to the 350hp range and significantly improve fuel economy - possibly by as much as 20 percent.
Currently the M35 gets 16/20 mpg (city/highway) and with direct injection those numbers could be improved to 18/22 mpg.
The direct-injection V6 is also expected to find its way in to the G37 model once it is due for a mid-cycle refresh. And you can be sure the same powerplant will be used in a mid-cycle update for the 370Z.

Source:
Wood, C. (2009, 3 26). Auto News. Retrieved 3 27, 2009, from AutoGuide.com.