2013 Infiniti G37 IPL Convertible Quick Spin

The stunning all-new 2013 IPL G high-performance hard-top convertible joins the Infiniti line of finely crafted luxury automobiles. As the second member of the Infiniti Performance Line of premium performance vehicles, the all-new IPL hardtop convertible takes the dramatic Infiniti G convertible to an even higher level of luxury and performance. The first IPL was the G coupe as IPL’s product design philosophy focused on ‘total vehicle performance’ including unique driving attributes and exclusive exterior and interior features at a very reasonable price point. The all-new IPL G convertible features special aerodynamic styling pieces, the dynamic performance of an IPL-tuned V6 engine, transmission, exhaust, suspension, brakes, 19 inch IPL aluminum-alloy wheels and a unique leather-appointed interior-including the G convertible’s three-piece retractable hardtop.

The Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) pushes the premium performance envelope for buyers seeking a higher level of exclusivity and driving excitement but it does it with an Infiniti twist-it looks as good with the top up as down at an economical price starting at just $60,600.00 complete. The only options are a rear wind deflector, illuminated kick plates and a first aid kit.

Based on the premium foundation of the Infiniti G37 convertible, the IPL G convertible features an advanced VQ37VHR 3.7 liter, all-aluminum, DOHC, VVEL V6. The engine management system has been recalibrated through air-fuel mixture and ignition timing optimization, raising the maximum horsepower output to a high 7,400rpm. To obtain a natural acceleration feel, the torque curve from low revs to the maximum torque point (5,200rpm) was tuned for linearity. The IPL-tuned high-flow exhaust is a full dual exhaust H-pipe design with independent left and right large diameter pipes. The muffler’s inner structure and materials have been maximized to reduce pressure and provide an appropriate performance exhaust note that sounds great-music to my or any other high-performance enthusiast’s ears. The result is a 30% reduction in exhaust back pressure. As a result of both the exhaust system and engine management changes, the IPL G convertible generates a very healthy 343hp and 273lb.ft. of torque.

This specially tuned V6 is mated to an electronically controlled 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching and quick-shift Drive Sport (DS) mode with magnesium paddle shifters and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) when left in Drive (D). Instant gear changes whether up or down the gears is great fun and when entering a curve at speed, down-shifting and have the revs matched is smooth with no shock as you are increasing the revs into a lower gear, then flattening the aluminum throttle pedal and blasting out after the apex. You can also shut the Traction Control/Vehicle Dynamic Control system off by pushing a dashboard mounted button to let the rear slide out for even more thrills.

It is great fun driving in city traffic or on the back roads thanks to the car’s enhanced dynamic performance that focuses on providing confident handling, a flat and smooth comfortable ride. The IPL’s tuned fully independent suspension tuning and damping management philosophy is designed to optimize each aspect of the suspension, effectively connecting me to the road surface while minimizing uncomfortable vibrations. Up front is a double-wishbone setup and the rear is a multi-link setup. Front spring rates have been increased 14% over the G convertible Sport model and rear spring rates increased by 4%. Front stabilizer spring rates have been increased 6% over the G convertible Sport model and rear stabilizer spring rates increased 125%. Shock tuning has also been adjusted and incorporates an all-new rear HF-type shock. The steering system of the IPL G convertible matches beautifully with the IPL tuned suspension. The sport-tuned vehicle-speed-sensitive rack & pinion steering system features a sport-tuned steering gear that gives me a better feel for the road and incredible quick reaction to my steering inputs. It quickly turns the car where I want it to go with ease.

Quickly and safely slowing the new IPL G convertible down from speed are large, world-class brakes. Up front are 14 inch vented rotors clamped with aluminum-alloy opposed 4-piston calipers. The rear brakes are 13.8 inch vented rotors clamped with aluminum-alloy opposed 2-piston calipers. Keeping me in control of my direction during severe braking maneuvers and when braking on wet or slick pavement is standard ABS, EBS and BA electronic systems.

Further enhancing the high-performance driving dynamics and world-class braking abilities are the big, low-profile, high-performance tires. Up front are IPL split 7-spoke graphite finish 19X8 inch alloy wheels wrapped with 22/45R19 inch Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires and 19X9 inch wheels wrapped with 245/40R19 inch summer tires for excellent grip and a smooth ride.

The car’s unique styling includes a dramatic front bumper/fascia design with a lower spoiler, flat bottom plate to help with airflow, the signature Infiniti horizontal satin chrome grille, lower air-intake with side intakes to cool the front brakes, HID headlamps, foglamps and black finishers. From the side are steeply raked windshield A-pillars, aero-dynamic styled, power-folding/heated sideview mirrors, pull out door handles, a chrome strip running the length of the greenhouse, and deep, sculpted side sills to lower the center of gravity that further enhances handling capabilities. The rear features large, wraparound LED lamp clusters, a chrome spoiler on top of the deck lid, a bold, one piece bumper and two 5-inch round exhaust tips finished in chrome. The look when the top is closed reminds me of a solid sculpted piece of metal.

The IPL G convertible interior that I tested harmonizes with the exterior styling with Monaco Red leather seats. All IPL G convertible interiors include red-stitched leather appointed climate controlled front sport seats that are very comfortable and supportive and include an embroidered IPL logo, red-stitched, leather-wrapped power tilt/telescopic steering wheel that feels perfect in my hand, Silk Obi aluminum trim on the dashboard, center console and doors, IPL embroidered front floor mats, and aluminum trimmed pedals and footrest. Other standard equipment includes a 13-speaker Bose Open Air Sound System, optimized for both top positions, with AudioPilot 2.0 noise compensation technology and Personal front seat headrest speakers, an Adaptive Dual Zone climate control that automatically adjusts fan speed and air volume based on top position, and Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster air purifier. Infiniti Navigation System with voice recognition and available NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information, NavWeather with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth and Zagat Survey Restaurant Guide and touch screen and Bluetooth hands-free phone system. Technological and convenience features include power windows/door locks with express up/down, self-dimming rearview mirror, 8-way power-adjustable/power lumbar front bucket seats, dual map lights, dual lighted vanity mirrors, illuminated glove box, rear sonar system, rear camera, Sirius Satellite radio, USB connection port for iPod interface, Homelink Universal Transceiver, and remote keyless entry.

And advanced airbag system with dual-stage supplemental front airbags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor is standard along with door-mounted curtain side impact airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, front seat active head restraints and front 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners/load limiters. The rear seat included fixed headrests with rear Pop-up Roll Bars and 3-point seatbelts. The car also includes reinforced front side members, front pillars and body sills, front/rear crumple zones and steel beams in each door.

The 2013 IPL G convertible is offered in one fully equipped model, the IPL G convertible with 7-speed automatic transmission, there are no options. It is the perfect blend of luxury and sportiness.