Vehicle: 2011 Infiniti IPL G Coupe
Price as tested: CDN$57200
Performance: What does IPL stands for Infiniti is similar to what RS stands for Audi and AMG for Mercedes-Benz. Its the high-performance division which is able to transform a good car into a great car.
IPL’s first effort is to transform the worthy G37 coupe. The heavily messaged VQ37HR now comes with 348hp and 276 lb/ft of torque, which are 18 more horses and 6 lb/ft of torque than the standard G37S. In terms of seat-of-the-pants feedback, its not exactly remarkably quicker than the standard G37S. Mesh the responsive throttle, IPL takes off like a rocket, which is typical of this wonderful VQ37HR’s engine characteristics. Along with the usual suspects of technologies like CVTCS and VVEL, which improve engine breathing at all rpm. The IPL is able to run with anything else in its class. Both the low and mid-range are impressive with this improved version of VQ37HR. Mated with the world’s best V6 engine is the smooth shifting 6-speed manual gearbox. The gear ratios are properly mated with IPL’s sporty character. The shift throw has to be some of the best I have ever driven. Gates are well-defined and throw is short. Clutch provides exceptional feedback while progressive. All of those are expected given Nissan’s engineering prowess on performance products, as we have seen in GT-R and Z. If you prefer not to have your left foot with the clutch pedal, there is always a superb 7-speed manumatic with rev-matching variety and paddle shifters. Unfortunately, the same complaint we had with 370Z remains intact with the IPL’s paddle shifter location. That’s mounted on the steering column instead of steering wheel. Pity. 
Handling: A performance product would be no fun without proper driving dynamics. IPL certainly shines with this regard. Combined with the already stiff and stout chassis, add with the recalibrated sports suspension for IPL application and quicker steering ratio. Not to mention IPL’s rear-wheel-drive 50/50 ideal chassis balance. The result is a sports car that handles like its on rail. Steering is sharp and precise, its almost on par with Porsche when it comes to feel and feedback. Body rolls are minimal to non-existance, while the limited slip differential has done what its worth for its existence. Both understeer and oversteer are well-tempted. The ride is European firm but far from being harsh. In fact, IPL is a dynamically delightful piece of machinery.
Brakes: With 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, IPL has one of the best brake system I have ever tested. The stopping distance is short while pedal feels firm and modulated. There are always lives to the pedal, while ABS doesn’t step in unnecessarily.
Interior: The biggest highlight to IPL’s interior is the great sports seats. They provide exceptional back and side support during enthuisastic moments. The rest of the interior is typical G37. The use of materials and fit-and-finish have improved by each generation. Add one of the most initutive navigational system in the business. It pretty much wraps up IPL’s well-rounded package.
Conclusion: G Coupe is definitely IPL’s excellent first effort. As it combined nice performance, impressive dynamic abilities at an attractive price.
Competitions:
Audi S5
BMW 335i
Mercedes E550
OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2011 Infiniti IPL G Coupe
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Performance: 5/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 3/5
Value-for-money: 4/5
Overall rating: 4.25/5