Infiniti G35 and Q40: why is it Skyline 35 in premium guise and how they differ

When it comes to Japanese sports sedans, two models always take center stage: Nissan Skyline V35 And Infiniti G35 (later - Q40). At first glance, these are completely different cars - one is positioned as an affordable Japanese sports car, the other as a premium American sedan. But upon closer inspection, it becomes clear: under the hood and at the core of the chassis, they share the same DNA. So why Infiniti G35 is 90% identical to Skyline V35, what are their key differences and which option to choose for purchase? In this material we will look at the history, technical nuances and hidden details that will help you avoid mistakes when choosing.

The secret lies in the strategy Nissan early 2000s: the company decided to withdraw Skyline to the global market under a premium brand Infiniti, but with adaptation to local tastes. As a result G35 received a different design, a different suspension, a luxury interior and even a different body (coupe and convertible, which Skyline V35 never happened). However, the platform FM (Front Midship), engines VQ35DE, gearboxes and even electronics remained the same. It does Infiniti a unique case when a premium car is essentially a Japanese sports car in disguise.

But it's not that simple. Differences in suspension settings, level of equipment, and even the reliability of individual components can play a decisive role. For example, American versions of the G35 often suffer from problems with automatic transmissions RE5R05A, while Japanese Skylines with manual transmission are considered more reliable. Next is a detailed analysis of all aspects, from history to practical operating tips.

History: How the Skyline V35 became the Infiniti G35

It all started in 2001 when Nissan introduced the 11th generation Skyline (index V35). The car became revolutionary: for the first time in the 40 years of the model’s history, it switched to a rear-wheel drive platform FM (with the engine moved behind the front axle), received a naturally aspirated V6 VQ35DE and 6-speed manual transmission. But the main thing is Skyline V35 was designed not only for the Japanese market, but also for export.

The problem was the image: in the USA and Europe Nissan Skyline associated with tuned "drift" cars from films The Fast and the Furious, and not with premium sedans. The solution was found in a subsidiary brand Infiniti - this is how it appeared in 2002 Infiniti G35, which outwardly resembled little Skyline, but was technically his twin. Key milestones:

• 📅 2001 - debut Nissan Skyline V35 in Japan with engines VQ25DD (2.5 l) and VQ35DE (3.5 l).
• 🌎 2002 — start of sales Infiniti G35 in the USA (only with VQ35DE and automatic transmission).
• 🔄 2004 — restyling Skyline V35 (changes in optics, bumpers) and the appearance Infiniti G35 Coupe.
• 🚗 2007 - generational change: Skyline V36 And Infiniti G37 (with engine VQ37VHR).

Interesting fact: in Japan Infiniti G35 was not officially sold - it was replaced Nissan Skyline with similar options. But in the USA and Europe G35 became a hit thanks to the combination of sporty characteristics and premium equipment (leather interior, climate control, Bose). At the same time Skyline V35 in Japan it was available in more modest trim levels, including versions with a 2.5-liter engine and front-wheel drive (!).

Technical differences: what is common and how they differ

Despite external differences, Skyline V35 And Infiniti G35 share up to 80% of the parts among themselves. But there are also critical differences that affect the car’s behavior, reliability and cost of ownership. Main technical nuances:

Parameter	Nissan Skyline V35	Infiniti G35 (2003–2006)	Infiniti G35 (2007) / Q40
Engines	VQ25DD (2.5 l, 215 hp), VQ35DE (3.5 l, 280–308 hp)	Only VQ35DE (280–298 hp)	VQ35DE (306 hp), later VQ35HR (303 hp)
Gearboxes	5-automatic transmission, 6-speed manual transmission (only for VQ35DE)	5-automatic (RE5R05A), 6-speed manual (rare)	5-automatic, later 7-automatic (JR710E)
Suspension	Rigid, sporty (setting Nissan)	Softer, adapted for the American market	Even softer, electronic shock absorbers in top versions
Drive	Rear or full (ATTESA E-TS)	Rear only (except G35x AWD)	Rear or full (ATTESA)
Body	Sedan only	Sedan, coupe (2003), convertible (2004)	Sedan, coupe, convertible

The most important difference is chassis settings. Skyline V35 was designed for Japanese roads and aggressive driving: stiffer springs, straight steering rack, minimal roll in corners. Infiniti G35, on the contrary, received a soft suspension, less informative steering and a more comfortable ride - this was a requirement of the American market. Exception - versions G35 Sport with 19-inch wheels and hard shock absorbers that were close to Skyline by feeling.

Another critical point - gearboxes. B Skyline V35 with VQ35DE a reliable 6-speed manual transmission was installed (FS6R31A), whereas Infiniti G35 in 90% of cases it came with a 5-speed automatic transmission RE5R05A, which is known for problems with solenoids and overheating. The exception is rare versions with manual transmission (they were released only in 2003–2004 for enthusiasts).

VQ35DE engines: reliability, problems and potential

The heart of both models is the legendary engine Nissan VQ35DE, which is considered one of the most reliable V6s in history. This motor was installed on dozens of models - from Nissan 350Z to Renault Vel Satis, but in Skyline V35 And Infiniti G35 it received unique settings. Key Features:

• 🔧 Volume: 3.5 l (3498 cm³).
• 💪 Power: 280–308 hp (depending on market and year).
• 🔥 Torque: 353–363 Nm.
• ⚙️ Construction: aluminum block, timing chain drive, variable phase system CVTC.

Benefits VQ35DE:

• ✅ Resource 400,000+ km with proper maintenance.
• ✅ Lack of hydraulic compensators (valve adjustment once every 100,000 km).
• ✅ High maintainability and availability of spare parts.
• ✅ Potential for tuning up to 400+ hp on the stock block.

However, there are also some problems:

• ⚠️ Oily appetite after 200,000 km (wear of oil scraper rings).
• ⚠️ Seal leaks (rear crankshaft oil seal, valve cover).
• ⚠️ Problems with ignition coils (misfire).
• ⚠️ Overheating during aggressive driving (weak pump, thermostat).

Particular attention should be paid oil. VQ35DE demanding on the quality of lubricant: it is recommended to use synthetics 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission Nissan (For example, Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30). Replacement interval - every 7,000–10,000 km, even if the mileage is short. Skipping an oil change is a leading cause of premature wear.

What happens if you fill with low-quality oil?

Engine VQ35DE sensitive to oil due to high loads on the timing chain and turbulence in the VVT system. Using cheap mineral water or counterfeits leads to:

- Accelerated chain wear (stretching, noise).

- Seizure of rings and increased oil consumption (up to 1 liter per 1,000 km).

- Overheating and detonation at high speeds.

In critical cases, the timing chain breaks and the valves meet the pistons (repair ~150,000 rubles).

Transmission: manual transmission vs automatic transmission - which is more reliable?

The choice of transmission is one of the key factors when purchasing Skyline V35 or Infiniti G35. There are nuances here that directly affect reliability and cost of ownership.

Manual transmission (FS6R31A):

• 🔹 Installed only on Skyline V35 350GT (Japan) and rare Infiniti G35 (2003–2004, USA).
• 🔹 Resource 300,000+ km when driving carefully.
• 🔹 Weak points: input shaft bearing, 2nd gear synchronizers.
• 🔹 Advantages: cheaper to repair, better for tuning.

Automatic transmission (RE5R05A):

• 🔹Standed on the majority Infiniti G35 and parts Skyline V35 (optional).
• 🔹 Resource 150,000–200,000 km (with regular oil changes).
• 🔹 Typical problems:
  • 🛑 Solenoids (codes P0730, P0740).
  • 🛑 Wear of friction clutches (jerking when switching).
  • 🛑 Overheating (additional radiator required).
• 🔹Repair costs 80,000–150,000 rub. (depending on the problem).

⚠️ Attention: If you are considering Infiniti G35 with automatic transmission, be sure to check the oil change history in the box. Oil ATF Matic-J or Matic-S needs to be changed every 60,000 km, even if the official regulations talk about “non-replaceable” fluid. Skipping replacement leads to failure of the solenoids and valve body.

For those planning tuning or aggressive driving, mechanics is preferable. She stands up to 450–500 hp without modifications (subject to the installation of a reinforced clutch). Automatic RE5R05A starts to “crumble” after 350 hp, and its replacement with a more durable CD009 (from 350Z) is expensive.

Check the color and smell of the oil (should be red, no burning)|Check for shocks when shifting|Make sure there are no errors in the transmission (scan OBD-II)|Check the oil level (hot, engine running)-->

Suspension and steering: what breaks and how to upgrade

Platform FM renowned for its balance, but it has weak points, especially in the suspension. B Skyline V35 And Infiniti G35 similar components are used, but with different settings. Main problems:

• 🔧 Front suspension:
  • 🛑 Wheel bearings (100,000–150,000 km).
  • 🛑 Ball joints (wear after 80,000 km).
  • 🛑 Silent blocks of levers (crackling sound when driving over uneven surfaces).
• 🔧 Rear suspension:
  • 🛑 Subframe silent blocks (break after 120,000 km).
  • 🛑 Shock absorbers (leak after 100,000 km).
  • 🛑 Springs (sagging by 150,000+ km).
• 🔧 Steering:
  • 🛑 The slats are leaking (repair ~30,000 rub.).
  • 🛑 Worn tie rod ends.

The main difference between the models is rigidity. Skyline V35 has a sportier suspension with minimal roll, but less comfortable on bad roads. Infiniti G35, especially in the version Sport, comes with softer springs and shock absorbers, which improves comfort but worsens handling at high speeds.

To improve performance, many owners install:

• 🔹 Coilovers (For example, Tein Street Basis or KW V1).
• 🔹 Reinforced silent blocks (from Nismo or Prothane).
• 🔹 Anti-roll bars (from Stillen or Hotchkis).
• 🔹 Reinforced steering rack (for example, from 350Z).

⚠️ Attention: When replacing subframe silent blocks with polyurethane ones (Prothane) be prepared for increased vibration and harshness. Such parts are suitable for the track, but not for daily driving around the city.

Electronics and interior: where the pitfalls are hidden

Both models were equipped with advanced electronics for their time, but today many systems are becoming a source of problems. This is especially true Infiniti G35, where there are more sensors and bells and whistles.

Typical electronics problems:

• 🔌 Throttle position sensor (error P0120, P0122).
• 🔌 ABS module (corrosion of connectors, error C1130).
• 🔌 Climate control unit (fan failure, error B1422).
• 🔌 Electric windows (motor wear).

Inside Infiniti G35 higher quality leather and plastic are used than in Skyline V35, but there are also common problems:

• 🪑 Seats: subsidence of lateral support after 150,000 km.
• 🎛️ Steering wheel: abrasion of the leather braid.
• 🔊 Audio system Bose: amplifier failure (repair ~20,000 rub.).
• 🌡️ Climate control: heater radiator leak (replacement ~15,000 rub.).

One of the key differences is multimedia system. B Skyline V35 there was a simple radio with a CD changer, while Infiniti G35 received navigation with a screen (in top versions). Unfortunately, these systems are now outdated, and many owners install Android Auto or Apple CarPlay via adapters.

💡

If you buy Infiniti G35 with mileage over 150,000 km, budget for it ~50,000–70,000 rub. for electronics repair (sensors, ABS, climate control).

Which option to choose: Skyline V35 or Infiniti G35?

The answer depends on your goals. Here's a quick comparison:

Criterion	Nissan Skyline V35	Infiniti G35
Purchase price	Cheaper (from 800,000 rub.)	More expensive (from RUB 1,200,000)
Reliability	Higher (simpler electronics, more manual transmission)	Below (problems with automatic transmission, electronics)
Comfort	Hard suspension, noisy interior	Softer, quieter, better sound insulation
Tuning potential	Better (more spare parts from Nismo)	Worse (more expensive parts, less support)
Status	Iconic JDM car, but not for everyone	Premium sedan, more versatile

Choose Skyline V35, if:

• 🔹 Do you need real Japanese sports car with mechanics.
• 🔹 Planning tuning or drift.
• 🔹 Ready to put up with rough ride and modest equipment.

Choose Infiniti G35, if:

• 🔹Is important to you comfort and premium.
• 🔹 Needed coupe or convertible.
• 🔹 Don't want to mess with electronics repair (although you will still need it).

Stands apart Infiniti G35 Coupe - this is a unique model that was not in the line Skyline. The coupe received a more aggressive design, a rigid body and better weight distribution (51:49). However, due to its rarity, spare parts for it are more expensive, and prices for used copies start from RUB 1,500,000.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to install an engine from Infiniti G35 in Skyline V35?

Yes, engines VQ35DE completely interchangeable, since the blocks and electronics are identical. However, there are nuances:

• 🔹B Skyline V35 wiring may need to be replaced Infiniti-ECU version.
• 🔹 Engines for G35 often have a different manifold and throttle body.
• 🔹 In some cases, you need to flash the ECU for new firmware.

The best option is to take a motor from Skyline V35 350GT (Japanese version), since it is already adapted for a manual transmission.

What kind of oil to fill in automatic transmission Infiniti G35?

Officially recommended Nissan Matic-J or Matic-S. However, many owners use analogues:

• 🔹 Idemitsu ATF Type-J (the best analogue).
• 🔹 Motul Multi ATF (universal).
• 🔹 Red Line D4 ATF (for high loads).

Important: do not mix different types of oils and change it completely (not partially) every 60,000 km.

How much does an engine overhaul cost? VQ35DE?

The cost depends on the amount of work:

• 🔹 Replacing the timing chain — 30,000–50,000 rub. (with spare parts).
• 🔹 Overhaul with block boring — 120,000–200,000 rub.
• 🔹 Replacing the turbine (during tuning) — 80,000–150,000 rub.

Advice: if the engine “eats” oil (more than 1 liter per 1,000 km), it’s cheaper to find a contract one VQ35DE (price ~150,000–200,000 rub.) than to repair the old one.

Is it possible to ride on Infiniti G35 in winter?

Yes, but with reservations:

• ❄️ Rear wheel drive requires winter tires and careful driving.
• ❄️ Versions with ATTESA AWD (all-wheel drive) are better suited for snow.
• ❄️ Follow battery — weak batteries are not cranked in cold weather VQ35DE.
• ❄️ Check it out thermostat - if it gets stuck in the open position, the engine will not warm up