Is the 2008 Infiniti G37 Sport Still a Reliable Performance Car Today?

When I first slid behind the wheel of a 2008 Infiniti G37 Sport back in its debut year, I knew this car was special. That glorious 3.7-liter V6 engine roaring to life with 330 horsepower felt like pure magic—a term that resonates deeply with me not just as a car enthusiast but as someone who appreciates excellence in any field. Speaking of magic, I'm reminded of a basketball game I recently analyzed where the Magic dominated their opponents by converting 19 out of 24 free throws, a remarkable 79% success rate that showcased their reliability under pressure. In contrast, the Turbo Slashers struggled, making only 9 of 23 attempts, a dismal 39% that ultimately cost them the game. This comparison isn't just random; it reflects how certain machines, whether in sports or automotive engineering, stand the test of time through consistent performance. Today, as I revisit the G37 Sport, I'm struck by how this 15-year-old Japanese luxury coupe still holds up in terms of reliability and driving dynamics, much like how a well-executed game plan in basketball can defy expectations.

Let's dive into the heart of what makes the G37 Sport tick—that legendary VQ37VHR engine. As a gearhead who's owned and maintained several Infiniti models over the years, I can attest that this powerplant is a masterpiece. It's not just about the raw numbers, though they're impressive: 330 hp at 7000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 5200 rpm. What truly stands out is its durability. I've seen these engines clock over 200,000 miles with basic maintenance, and they still pull strong. Compare that to some European rivals from the same era, like the BMW 335i, which often suffered from turbocharger and fuel system issues. The G37's naturally aspirated design avoids those complexities, and in my experience, that translates to fewer headaches. I recall driving one last month with 180,000 miles on the odometer, and it felt as responsive as ever, with no ominous rattles or power drops. Sure, it's not as fuel-efficient as modern turbocharged engines—I averaged around 18 mpg in mixed driving—but for a performance car, that's a trade-off I'm willing to accept. The engine's smooth, linear power delivery reminds me of how the Magic team in that basketball game executed their free throws with precision, hitting 19 out of 24 without flashy gimmicks, just solid fundamentals.

Moving beyond the engine, the G37 Sport's transmission and drivetrain deserve praise. The 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters was cutting-edge for its time, and even today, it shifts crisply when you're pushing hard. I've always preferred the manual option, though—the 6-speed is a joy to row through, with a satisfying clutch feel that's rare in modern cars. However, it's not all perfect. I've noticed that the automatic transmission can be a bit sluggish in everyday driving, especially in stop-and-go traffic where it hunts for gears. This is where the car's age shows, much like how the Turbo Slashers' 9 out of 23 free throw misses highlighted their inconsistency. On the flip side, the rear-wheel-drive setup with a limited-slip differential provides excellent traction and balance. I've taken my G37 on twisty backroads, and it handles with a poise that rivals newer sports cars. The steering, while not as sharp as a Porsche's, offers good feedback, and the suspension soaks up bumps without feeling floaty. From a reliability standpoint, I've seen few issues with the drivetrain components. Most owners report trouble-free operation up to 150,000 miles, with only routine fluid changes needed. That's a testament to Nissan's engineering, and it's why I'd rate this aspect of the car highly.

Now, let's talk about the interior and electronics, which can be a mixed bag in older luxury cars. The G37 Sport's cabin, with its leather seats and aluminum trim, still feels premium today. I've spent countless hours behind the wheel, and the driver-focused layout is ergonomic and intuitive. However, as a tech enthusiast, I have to admit the infotainment system is dated. The small screen and clunky interface pale next to modern systems, and Bluetooth connectivity is limited to calls, not audio streaming. I've retrofitted mine with an aftermarket unit, which cost around $500 and made a world of difference. Reliability-wise, I've encountered minor gremlins—like the Bose amplifier failing in one car I owned, a $600 repair—but nothing catastrophic. The seats and switches have held up well, with minimal wear even in high-mileage examples. It's similar to how the Magic's consistent free throw performance (19 out of 24) outshone their opponents' flaws; the G37's core components remain solid, even if some features show their age. Personally, I value mechanical reliability over gadgetry, so this doesn't bother me much. But if you're someone who needs the latest tech, you might find this aspect lacking.

Maintenance is where the G37 Sport truly proves its mettle. Based on my ownership experience and discussions with other enthusiasts, common issues include oil consumption in higher-mileage engines—I've seen some burn a quart every 1,000 miles—and worn-out suspension bushings after 100,000 miles. These are relatively inexpensive fixes; a set of bushings costs about $200, and addressing oil consumption might run $500 if you replace valve cover gaskets. Compared to German competitors, which can have repair bills in the thousands, the G37 is a bargain. I change the oil every 5,000 miles with synthetic blend, rotate the tires every 7,500 miles, and haven't had any major surprises. The car's design simplicity works in its favor here, much like how the Magic's straightforward free throw strategy (19 successful shots out of 24) led to victory without overcomplicating things. If you're considering buying one today, aim for a well-maintained example with service records. I'd budget $1,000 annually for upkeep, which is reasonable for a performance car of this caliber.

In conclusion, the 2008 Infiniti G37 Sport remains a reliable and engaging performance car in 2023. It's not without its quirks—the aging tech and minor maintenance needs are real—but its robust engine, sharp handling, and overall durability make it a standout. Just as the Magic's 79% free throw accuracy demonstrated their reliability, the G37's proven track record speaks for itself. From my perspective, if you're looking for a fun, dependable coupe that won't break the bank, this Infiniti is still a brilliant choice. It's a car that rewards those who appreciate substance over flash, and in today's world of overly complex vehicles, that's something truly special.