The V6 petrol engine makes all the right noises, but doesn't give the expected punch and doesn't feel as quick as the official figures suggest. The seven-speed automatic transmission has standard and (faster-shifting) sport modes, with the option of using steering wheel-mounted controls in a manual setting. However, it's not the slickest ’box available.
The G37's ride is firm –it jitters around on a scruffy surface, and bumps give you a serious whack in the backside. What’s more, every jolt sends a shiver through the car, and with the hard top folded away, you can feel the whole body flexing. This is a shame, because the steering is pleasantly direct and takes the car round corners with confidence.
There isn't much wind noise at motorway speeds, but road noise can be an issue on some surfaces, especially on cars with larger-wheels. The petrol engine is quiet and well-behaved when you're cruising, but step on the throttle and you'll get a lovely V6 howl. Even with the roof down, and without the standard wind deflector, you're not buffeted too much.
The standard kit list is extremely generous, which goes some way to explaining the car’s hefty price. It’ll cost you a bomb to run, too. The V6 engine isn't as efficient as similar engines in rival cars, and you’ll struggle to get as much as 20mpg in everyday use. That equates to high CO2 emissions and high tax bills, while insurance is equally costly.
The materials in the cabin generally feel very solid, although some people may think the cabin is cheapened by the use of switches from Nissan cars. There's a nice swathe of aluminium that sweeps around the cabin and build quality seems to be solid.
The G37 Convertible hasn't gone through a Euro NCAP crash test yet, but it comes with six airbags, and traction and stability controls as standard. The head restraints move forward in an accident in a bid to minimise whiplash injuries, while the bonnet also pops up to cushion pedestrians.
Most of the controls are easy to use, but some of the switchgear could be more clearly labeled. There's plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering column, and because the instrument binnacle adjusts with the wheel, you never lose sight of the dials. Over the shoulder visibility is good and a reversing camera is standard, too.
There's space for four – just – but not for much luggage. Anyone (bar a basketball player) should be comfortable in the front, while the rear seats offer more space than many 2+2 coupes. However, a six-footer will struggle for headroom when seated behind another six-footer. Don't expect to get much in the boot, either, with just a tiny amount of space available with the roof down.
Just one trim – GT Premium – is available, but given how well specified it is, there’s no need for another. As standard, you get touch-screen navigation (with voice recognition), dual-zone climate control, cruise control, Bluetooth, MP3 connection, keyless go, 19-inch alloys, adaptive headlights and excellent scratch-shield paint. The only options are metallic paint and red leather upholstery with stained Maple Wood interior trim.