When Infiniti dropped a smaller 2.5-liter V6 into its iconic entry-level luxury sedan for the 2012 model year, buyers raised eyebrows. Known widely for the powerhouse G37, the 2012 Infiniti G25 traded raw acceleration for better fuel economy and a lower sticker price. It was built on the same athletic FM platform as its larger sibling, meaning sharp handling and rear-wheel-drive dynamics came standard. While short-lived in the market, this overlooked iteration occupies an interesting space on the used car market today.
If you're hunting for a reliable commuter car with sharp handling, premium interior materials, and a lower price tag than a comparable BMW or Lexus, this car deserves a closer look. Let's break down what makes the G25 tick, where it falls short, and whether it's worth your hard-earned money.
Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the aluminum hood sits the VQ25HR engine, a high-revving 2.5-liter V6 producing 218 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a responsive seven-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain loves to spin. Redlining near 7,500 RPM, it rewards drivers who keep the revs high, though low-end torque feels softer compared to the brute force of the 3.7-liter model.
Handling is where the car redeems its modest power figures. Sharing its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension with the G37, the sedan carves through corners with predictable neutrality and crisp hydraulic steering feedback.
- Base Model: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) for purists seeking classic sport sedan balance.
- G25x Variant: Intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) that shifts torque to the front wheels only when slip is detected.
- Fuel Economy: EPA-rated at roughly 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, outperforming its bigger V6 stablemate on long road trips.
Interior Quality and Feature Restrictions
Inside, the cabin mirrors the driver-focused layout of the G37, featuring high-grade leather upholstery, aluminum or wood trim accents, and supportive power-adjustable front buckets. Road noise can creep in under hard acceleration, but cruising speeds remain quiet and composed.
The main catch with the G25 lies in Infiniti's packaging strategy. To keep the base price around $32,400 new, the manufacturer restricted high-end options. You won't find navigation systems, premium Bose audio systems, or the Sport package on a factory G25. Bluetooth phone pairing for calls is standard, but streaming music wirelessly requires an auxiliary cord or USB adapter. Rear legroom is also tight compared to midsize rivals, making the back seat best suited for kids or short trips.
Common Mechanical Issues and Reliability
Overall, mechanical durability is one of the car's strongest selling points. Because the VQ25HR shares architecture with bulletproof Nissan and Infiniti engines, it regularly surpasses 200,000 miles with basic fluid changes. However, used buyers should keep an eye out for specific trouble areas:
- Valve Cover Gaskets: Over time, rubber gaskets harden, leading to oil leaks down into the spark plug wells. Check for misfires caused by oil pooling on the ignition coils.
- Suspension Bushings: Front control arm bushings wear out around 100,000 miles, causing vague steering feel or a clunking noise over bumps.
- Transmission Behavior: The seven-speed automatic can occasionally feel jerky during downshifts or cold starts. Software updates or a fluid flush often smooth out this characteristic.
For more technical data on vehicle history and safety ratings, you can check the NHTSA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you add a navigation system or Bose audio to a G25?
Factory integration is nearly impossible because the wiring harnesses and dashboard faceplates differ from the G37. Most owners opt for aftermarket head units or portable mounts if they want modern tech.
Is the G25 faster than a G37?
No. The G37 packs 330 horsepower, making it significantly faster in a straight line. The G25 is built for efficiency and budget-conscious buyers rather than straight-line speed.
Does the G25 require premium gasoline?
Yes, Infiniti engineered the high-compression VQ25HR engine to run strictly on premium unleaded fuel to achieve its rated power and efficiency.
How does it compare to a BMW 328i of the same year?
The G25 generally offers lower maintenance costs and superior long-term mechanical reliability compared to German alternatives from that era, though it lacks the fuel economy of a turbo-four engine.
