Infiniti G37 convertible delivers the fun factor

Classy convertibles are universally admired. How often do you see someone driving with the top down on a beautiful day or early evening and not feel a twinge of envy?

Several weeks ago, I was among the envied. And it felt pretty darn good, zipping along a country road on a Friday evening with no destination in mind. The goal: have fun.

⤥ Summer Fun Starts Here ⤦

⤥ Summer Fun Starts Here ⤦

⤥ Summer Fun Starts Here ⤦

⤥ Summer Fun Starts Here ⤦

That’s definitely one aspect that comes with a guarantee when driving the 2013 Infiniti G Convertible. The fun factor is prevalent on drives with no real purpose and can even make a pretty mundane trip to the grocery store feel exhilarating.

The hardtop convertible has been part of Infiniti’s G37 series since 2009. The G37 is the brand premium sport coupe/sedan that’s been in the Infiniti lineup for seven years. The convertible has the coupe’s same platform, powertrains, features, and front-end look, yet possesses a unique body structure from the windshield on back.

The G37 convertible is an attractive model that’s well-built overall and delivers excellent acceleration and handling. It even provides a slight engine exhaust growl that adds to the feeling that one is driving something a little special.

Equipped with a 3.7-liter, V6 that produces 330 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, the G convertible can get you places in a hurry. In six-speed manual mode, this convertible reportedly goes 0-60 mph in a very brisk 6.0 seconds.

While acceleration is impressive, gas mileage is not, ranging from 17-25 mpg.

For a little quicker ride, one can purchase the G Infiniti Performance Line (IPL), which comes with 343 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. A more upscale version of the two other G convertible trims, the price is a big leap of faith because the IPL starts at roughly $61,450. The base model lists at $47,900 and the Sport goes for approximately $52,750.

2013 Infiniti G37 Convertible

• Performance: 3.7-liter, V6, 330 or 343 horsepower
• Mileage estimate range: 17-25 mpg
• Price: $47,900 to $61,450
• Warranty: four years/60,000 miles; drivetrain six years/70,000 miles; roadside assistance four years/unlimited

The IPL is Infiniti’s idea of trying to put itself in the mix with other $60,000-type luxury convertibles produced by BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Cadillac.

Like practically all convertibles, the G37 comes up lacking in two primary areas: backseat and trunk space. The G convertible is really a two-seater. Trying to stuff an adult in its backseat is not advisable and even kids will feel cramped.

The lack of trunk space is a byproduct of the convertible’s hardtop. While an overall fan of retractable hardtops due to longevity, protection and security, this one gobbles up much of the trunk space in convertible mode – all that’s left is 2 cubic feet. Competitors fare better in available trunk space.

Also note that one has to remember to check the trunk before deciding its top-down time. Fortunately, I remembered to remove the golf clubs. To reach top-down mode requires a somewhat sluggish 33 seconds, while getting the top back up takes 29 seconds.

But convertible drivers typically aren’t worried about trunk space or a roomy backseat. People buy sporty convertibles because they are cool, can aggressively attack curves with precision, offer thrilling acceleration, and deliver big-time on the fun factor.

And make no mistake, the G37 convertible is all about the fun.