Infiniti G37 Convertible

Infiniti has firmed up details on its latest model, the G37 Convertible.

It gets the same engine as its G37 saloon and coupe siblings in the shape of the 3.7-litre V6 that also puts in service in the rather good new Nissan 370Z. It is mildly detuned compared to the 370, producing 316bhp (down 10bhp) and 265b ft (a deficit of 4lb ft). Perhaps surprisingly, peak power is delivered at the same point in the rev range as the racier Zed – a heady 7000rpm – pointing to a more sporting character than the G37’s appearance may suggest.

It is rear-wheel driven and when mated to a manual gearbox it’ll hit 62mph in 6.2sec, before going on to a limited 155mph top speed. The automatic ‘box option comes in the shape of a seven-speed transmission with magnesium paddles.

Styling closely resembles the G37 Coupe thanks to a folding metal hard-top, increasingly essential kit in this class. The car’s closest foe – BMW’s 335i M Sport – has the same roof arrangement, although Audi’s recently launched A5 and S5 cabrios stay traditional with a soft top.

The top will fold up or down in a thoroughly decent 25 seconds, with control from inside the car or by using a button on the door handle. The latter should help to avoid that slightly awkward situation of sitting and holding the button while onlookers shout ‘show off’ (or something more unsavoury) at you.

There’s a host of kit, with the entry-level GT boasting 19in alloys, dual-zone climate control, scratch-healing paint (yes, really), heated seats and Infiniti’s new ‘Connectiviti’ media system which includes Bluetooth phone, reversing camera and a music hard drive.

Throw a bit more cash Infiniti’s way and you’ll get the GT Premium, which adds a HDD sat nav, cooled (as well as heated) seats and a 13-speaker Bose sound system which adjusts itself for whether the roof is up or down. You also get the option of Moncao Red leather interior trim with red-stained maple wood. Although if you’re thinking of residuals, don’t rush into that choice…

Sales begin in September (when the Infiniti range hits the UK), just as the autumn weather is about to kick in. That trick roof should see you through fine, though. With the coupe costing £34,500, expect the Convertible to be nearer £40K, although Infiniti will confirm UK prices in the coming weeks.