The 2008 Infiniti G35 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine known as the VQ35HR, delivering about 306 horsepower. This high-revving engine is part of Infiniti’s VQ family and defined the G35’s performance character for that model year.
Engine designation and core specifications
Here are the key technical details of the engine that sits under the G35’s hood:
- Engine displacement: 3.5 L (3,456 cc)
- Configuration: 60-degree V6
- Valvetrain: Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with 24 valves
- Induction: Sequential multi-point fuel injection
- Power output: 306 horsepower (approximately 228 kW)
- Torque: ~268 lb-ft (364 Nm)
- Redline: approximately 7,000 rpm
- Block and head construction: Aluminum for reduced weight
- Valve timing: Variable valve timing on the intake side to optimize performance and efficiency
In practice, the VQ35HR is a high-response evolution of Infiniti’s VQ lineup, tuned to deliver strong top-end power while maintaining smooth low-end response, which suits the G35’s blend of performance and daily usability.
Transmission options and how the engine is paired
Depending on body style and trim, the G35 paired this engine with different transmissions:
- 5-speed automatic with manual shift mode (common on sedans and some coupe configurations)
- 6-speed manual transmission available on certain coupe trims, offering a more engaging driving experience
These options allowed drivers to exploit the VQ35HR’s broad powerband, with smooth automatic shifting or a responsive manual experience for enthusiasts.
Context within the Infiniti lineup and evolution
The 2008 G35 sits toward the end of the G35 generation, before Infiniti introduced the G37 with a larger 3.7-liter V6. The G37 replaced the 3.5-liter V6 with the newer VQ37VHR engine, delivering more horsepower and torque. The VQ engine family itself is shared across many Nissan/Infiniti models from that era, known for durability and strong tuning potential.
Why the G35 engine matters
Before listing the broader implications, this section highlights the practical reasons the engine design mattered to drivers and the brand.
- Performance: The VQ35HR provided robust power suitable for a sporty luxury compact, aligning with buyers' expectations for the G35
- Reliability: The VQ family earned a reputation for reliability and long-term durability
- Engineering: The engine’s aluminum construction and variable valve timing contributed to efficiency and weight management
These features helped define the G35’s appeal, balancing spirited performance with everyday usability.
Summary
The 2008 Infiniti G35 uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine called the VQ35HR, delivering about 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. It is a high-revving member of Infiniti’s VQ family, paired with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission depending on model, and it sits in the lineup just before Infiniti shifted to the G37 with a larger 3.7-liter engine.