Audi A4 vs INFINITI G35

Positioned one rung up the entry-luxury ladder from the Audi A3 hatchback, Audi offers the 2008 A4 in 2-door convertible, 4-door sedan, and 5-door station wagon body styles. The wagon, called the A4 Avant, is covered separately. You can also learn about the V8-powered and performance-tuned Audi S4 variants in a separate article. The high-performance Audi RS4 is discontinued for 2008.

Why cancel one of the great driver’s cars of the modern age? Well, 2008 is the final year for the current A4 sedan in advance of a complete redesign. The A4 convertible’s redesign is delayed until 2010.

Changes for both body styles are limited to standard S-line exterior trim and an available iPod interface, while the convertible includes heated front seats at no extra cost. An A4 Special Edition sedan arrived mid-way through the year, equipping the car with upgraded wheels, paint, and in combination with all-wheel drive, leather seats that were heated up front.

Nissan's premium brand, Infiniti, has long been an also-ran, as Lexus and Acura tend to dominate the conversation in the Japanese premium-vehicle space. The recently-redesigned Infiniti G35 sedan might help Infiniti break free of the others’ shadows, however, because it’s got the performance, standard features, and price to be a real breakout hit.

A major overhaul for the 2007 model year brought a striking new design, an updated engine, and an overhauled interior with upgraded finishes and materials. The G35 is targeted at new-car buyers that want a sporty premium sedan at a reasonable price. It competes with cars from brands such as Audi, Cadillac, BMW, and the aforementioned Acura and Lexus.

The 2008 model is offered in two configurations: A standard rear-wheel-drive model and the all-wheel-drive Infiniti G35x. Both models get a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 306 horsepower, which reaches either the rear or all four wheels through a standard five-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual transmission is available for cars equipped with the optional Sport package.

An Infiniti G37 Coupe is offered as well, but has a different engine and is covered separately.