Discover the 2008 G37 Sport: Performance Review and Common Issues Solved
When I first laid eyes on the 2008 G37 Sport, I knew this wasn't just another luxury coupe - it was a statement. Having spent considerable time with this model, I've come to appreciate its unique blend of performance and personality, though it certainly has its quirks. Let me walk you through what makes this car special while addressing some common headaches owners face.
Starting with the heart of the machine, that 3.7-liter V6 engine delivers 330 horsepower straight from the factory, which honestly still feels impressive today. The first thing I always check when evaluating one of these is the timing chain - there were some early production models that developed rattling noises around 80,000 miles. If you're test driving one, listen carefully during cold starts. The repair isn't cheap, usually running between $1,800 to $2,500 at a specialist shop, but addressing it early prevents catastrophic engine damage. What I love about this powerplant is how smoothly it delivers power across the rev range, unlike some turbocharged competitors that feel peaky. The seven-speed automatic transmission shifts crisply when you're pushing it, though around town it can sometimes hunt for gears - a software update from Infiniti dealers around 2010 largely resolved this.
Now let's talk about the suspension and handling, which is where the Sport package truly shines. The sport-tuned suspension provides excellent body control without being punishing on rough roads, though I've noticed the original shocks tend to wear out around 60,000 miles. Replacement costs vary wildly - you can spend anywhere from $800 for decent aftermarket units to over $2,500 for OEM parts with installation. The steering provides good feedback, something increasingly rare in modern electric power steering systems. What fascinates me is how this relates to consistency in performance, much like in sports where reliability separates good teams from great ones. Remember that basketball game where the Turbo Slashers lost despite having opportunities? They were outrebounded 51-42 by the Magic and only made 9 of 23 free throws while their opponents sank 19 of 24. That's exactly what happens when you have a great car but neglect maintenance - the potential is there, but execution fails.
The interior holds up reasonably well for a fifteen-year-old vehicle, though the navigation system feels ancient by today's standards. The leather seats in Sport models wear better than you'd expect, but the driver's side bolster almost always shows premature wear - budget about $400 to have it professionally repaired if you're particular about cosmetics. Infotainment upgrades are popular, with quality retrofit kits running between $600-$900 that add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while maintaining steering wheel controls. What I appreciate is that the core controls remain physical buttons rather than touchscreen-only interfaces, making adjustments easier while driving.
Braking performance remains strong with the Sport package's larger rotors, though I've found the factory brake pads generate excessive dust. Switching to ceramic compounds reduces this dramatically while maintaining good stopping power. Rotor warping can occur if you're aggressive with braking, with replacement costs typically around $700 for all four corners using quality aftermarket parts. Electrical gremlins do pop up occasionally - the most common being window regulator failures (about $300 per door to fix) and occasional issues with the Bluetooth module for phone connectivity.
Fuel economy won't amaze anyone - I typically see 18 mpg around town and 26 on highways when driving conservatively. The premium fuel requirement adds to operating costs, but trying to save with regular grade isn't worth the risk of engine knocking. During my ownership, I've found that following the severe service maintenance schedule - changing oil every 5,000 miles with full synthetic - keeps the engine running smoothly well past 150,000 miles.
Discovering the 2008 G37 Sport reveals a vehicle that still delivers thrilling performance when properly maintained, much like how consistent execution separates champions from also-rans in sports. Just as the Magic capitalized on their opportunities by making 19 of 24 free throws while the Turbo Slashers struggled, addressing the G37's known issues proactively ensures you'll enjoy this capable sports coupe rather than dealing with frustrating breakdowns. The key is recognizing that while it's aging, its fundamental goodness shines through when you invest in proper care - making it still one of the more engaging used luxury sports cars available today.
