When Infiniti dropped all-wheel drive into the G35 sedan, traditional sports sedan purists raised an eyebrow. Rear-wheel drive was the gold standard for handling engagement. Yet the 2006 Infiniti G35x proved that sending power to all four wheels didn't mean sacrificing the lively soul of the FM platform. It offered year-round grip without turning into a sterile commuter appliance.
Underneath the hood sits the robust VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 engine, pumping out 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Unlike its high-revving RWD sibling of the same model year, the G35x uses the standard-output V6 coupled with an electronically managed ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system. It's a sedan built for drivers who wanted rear-wheel-drive balance on dry tarmac and uncompromising traction when winter weather hit.
How the ATTESA E-TS System Works
The core of the G35x identity is its all-wheel-drive hardware. Borrowed in concept from Nissan's legendary GT-R lineage, the ATTESA E-TS system operates seamlessly behind the scenes. Under normal cruising conditions, the car sends 100% of its power to the rear wheels to maintain traditional sports sedan steering feel.
When sensors detect rear slip, steering angle changes, or sudden throttle inputs, an electromagnetic clutch pack instantly transfers up to 50% of the torque to the front wheels.
- Rear Bias: Retains the push-from-behind feeling of a traditional performance car.
- Active Monitoring: Continuous tracking of wheel speed, throttle position, and G-forces.
- Seamless Transfer: Zero driver intervention required; corrections happen in milliseconds.
This setup prevents the heavy, nose-heavy understeer typical of front-wheel-drive-based layouts found in competing Audi models of that era. You get neutral handling characteristics paired with bulletproof wet-weather confidence.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Driving the G35x reveals a car that punches well above its price class on the used market. Zero to sixty mph arrives in roughly 6.0 seconds, which still feels brisk by modern daily-driver standards. The five-speed automatic transmission features manual shift modes, though it lacks the crispness of a dual-clutch unit.
The suspension is firmer than your average luxury cruiser. It leans toward sporty stiffness, communicating road textures clearly through the steering wheel.
- Steering Weight: Hydraulic power steering offers genuine mechanical feedback, unlike modern electronic systems.
- Braking Performance: Equipped with ventilated disc brakes all around, providing solid initial bite and fade resistance.
- Weight Penalty: The AWD hardware adds about 200 pounds compared to the RWD base model, resulting in a slight blunting of ultimate agility.
While you notice the extra heft in tight hairpin turns, the front tires pull the car cleanly through corner exits where RWD models would require throttle feathering.
Interior Ergonomics and Cabin Quirks
Inside, the G35x blends early-2000s Japanese luxury with driver-focused cockpit design. The center console tilts toward the driver, housing distinct orange-lit instrument clusters and analog climate controls.
Material quality is a mixed bag. Leather seats hold up decently over time, but the dashboard plastics on 2005 and 2006 models are infamous for developing a sticky, reflective coating in high heat.
- Seating Comfort: Supportive bucket seats designed for long-distance driving without lower back fatigue.
- Cabin Space: Generous rear legroom, though the center tunnel is prominent due to the front-axle driveshaft housing.
- Infotainment: Outdated by modern standards, featuring a primitive navigation screen and orange dot-matrix audio displays. Audiophiles frequently swap the head unit for aftermarket double-din setups.
Common Mechanical Issues to Watch For
Buying a used G35x requires looking past the glossy paint and listening closely to the engine bay during a cold start. While the mechanical foundation is durable, specific weak points demand inspection.
- Timing Chain Rattle: Worn chain guides or tensioners create a distinct ticking sound upon startup. Ignoring this can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
- Crankshaft Position Sensors: A failing sensor causes random engine stalls, erratic idling, or extended cranking times during hot starts.
- Oil Consumption: High-mileage VQ35DE engines can burn oil between changes. Regular dipstick checks are non-negotiable.
- Suspension Wear: Front control arm bushings and lower ball joints take a beating from the added weight of the AWD system, leading to clunking over bumps.
According to owner repair logs on RepairPal, electrical glitches like failing brake light switches and worn steering wheel clock springs also pop up as cars age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2006 Infiniti G35x good in snow?
Yes. Combined with a proper set of dedicated winter tires, the ATTESA E-TS system makes the G35x an exceptional snow cruiser, managing deep slush and icy inclines with ease.
Does the G35x require premium fuel?
Yes. The high-compression VQ35DE engine is factory-tuned to run exclusively on 91 octane or higher gasoline to prevent engine knocking and maintain peak power output.
How does the G35x differ from the standard G35?
The G35x adds an automatic all-wheel-drive system, sits slightly higher off the ground to accommodate front axle components, and came exclusively with the five-speed automatic transmission paired with the standard-output 280-hp V6.
What is the real-world fuel economy?
Expect around 16 mpg in heavy city driving and up to 23 mpg on highway trips, assuming the spark plugs, air filters, and oxygen sensors are operating correctly.
Can you drift a G35x?
While it has a rear-wheel-drive bias, the front wheels engage dynamically under slip, making it difficult to maintain predictable power slides compared to the dedicated rear-wheel-drive G35 coupe or sedan variants.
