The 06’ G35 Sedan is pretty similar to the 2005 model with one exception. This year’s model brings us an upgraded and more powerful V6 engine packing almost 300 h.p.’s under the hood. From first look the rounded import is a mid-size sedan with lots of goodies to attract the 20-30 something crowd just beginning to earn the dough to plop down on a 30k car. That crowd has an option to get it as a Sedan or Coupe, depending on tastes, with only 1 trim level. You also have the option to get it as a manual or automatic with the stick coming equipped as a sport package with 18” wheels and a few other items.

The sedan has a premium package also available with a smart-key and blue-tooth technology features.

The handling of the G35 is excellent in both the sedan and the coupe versions. This can be attributed to Nissan’s FM platform that distributes the weight almost perfectly with a 53/47 ratio. The sport-tuned suspension on the coupe stiffens it up quite a bit and definitely makes bumps more noticeable than in the sedan, which is softer and more forgiving. Both are equipped with speed sensitive steering, anti-lock brakes, Bi-xenon headlamps and plenty of airbags among lots of other standards.

The same week I had the G35 I was fortunate enough to get a 06 Lexus IS 350, which I thought, would be great to review in a side-by-side format. Although at first thought this seemed like a great way to go it wasn’t really fair. A side-by-side comparison with a new IS 250 would be more in order. The IS 350 is head and shoulders above the G35 in just about every aspect. Keep in mind the price is about 15k higher as well coming in at a hefty $47k give or take a few bucks. When compared to the 250 the G35 will not only handle its own, it will downright kick its butt. From horsepower to handling the G35 is well above the 250. The 250 has just over 200 h.p. while the Lexus comes in at just under 300. Obviously power wise there is no competition. Styling on the other hand I feel goes to Lexus. The bold curves and lines of the new IS are stunning compared to the relatively reserved body style of the G35.

Although the styling is somewhat reserved it is still a looker and gets plenty of attention from just about everyone. The performance is outstanding and the amenities are above par. All in all this might be the best car in its class given a low 30k price. I eagerly await some edgy design changes, which are sure to come in the next year.