BMW 5 Series vs INFINITI G35

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.

The BMW 5 Series is one of three cars that prove the country known for Autobahns, the Nürburgring, and Oktoberfest builds the best luxury sedans on the planet. It competes with the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, each taking a distinct approach to design but measuring up closely in other parameters. The 2026 5 Series is virtually unchanged, entering its third year following a 2024 redesign, and this review is about the 540i xDrive model.

Verdict: Putting BMW’s love-it-or-hate-it design aside, the 2026 540i xDrive is a sensational automobile offering the right blend of luxury, technology, and performance. Choose the M Sport setup for maximum driving enjoyment, or stick with the standard specification to emphasize luxury. Either way, the styling is the most controversial thing about the 5 Series.