To meet buyer demands for more high performance, Infiniti is launching an in-house luxury-performance division named IPL, short for Infiniti Performance Line. The first model to get the IPL tuner treatment is the popular G Coupe. The rear-drive G’s 3.7-liter V6 has been tweaked to now deliver 348 horsepower - an upshot of 18 - tied to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission.

Beyond that, the car’s high-flow crossover exhaust has been modified for freer breathing. And the IPL-tuned suspension means stiffer spring rates and specific shock tuning. The IPL G Coupe also utilizes sport brakes and a viscous limited-slip differential.

It rides on IPS-exclusive 19-inch wheels with summer tires. Our first impressions, a very solid car taken to new heights without losing sight of Infiniti’s luxury attributes. On the outside is a new front-end with integrated fog lights, sculpted side sills, rear spoiler, a more aggressive rear fascia with chrome exhaust tips, and of course, IPL badging. Inside, we found red-stitched leather-appointed front sport seats, and a steering wheel to match.

There’s also aluminum trimmed pedals and footrest. The IPL G may not yet be AMG or M caliber, but it does elevate Infiniti to a new enthusiast luxury level. Prices start at around $48,000 when it arrives in December.


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Specifications

  • 3.7-liter V6 :
  • 348 horsepower:
  • Starting around $48,000: