i have a 2011 maxima, and traded my OTHER 2011 maxima on my z. very reliable, blindingly fast, comfortable as hell, lots of room. a lot of folks are liking that new optima, and i suppose its an option if you dont mind the resale value in the toilet. nissan did a great job minimizing torque steer for the new maximas, so fwd isnt a real bother

by the way, there is a good reason you wont find many used 09-2012 maximas for sale...

yea one of those with low miles would be awesome if its in your price range

A used G37 would fall right into your price range. Interior is very comfy and driving is close to the Z, just with 400 extra lbs.

I would also look at the g8 gt.

Good call. I heard those were very fun cars.

I think you can do better for $22500...look at some with lower miles.

Have a 10' Maxima myself, great overall car, quick, sporty, comfortable, quality. And it actually has a lot of room compared to all the competition. Huge trunk and great amount of leg room in the front and rear. The Infiniti's are very tight on the inside. I recommend one.

anybody have experience with the 09 G35x awd ?

I love my Fusion Sport and I'm sure you could get a used one in that price range. It's got AWD. 3.5L. It's a fun car. Ford has stepped up their game

The current Maxima is really awesome.

Do note that the SE has a rear STB so you lose the drop down rear seats which can come handy for a family.

Good point :tup:

If you really like the 335i, look for one with fewer miles.

You mentioned you worried about maintenance costs down the road. Most definitely, an Infiniti G will be cheaper to maintain than a BMW 3-series.
Would you prefer a turbo-charged engine or naturally aspirated one ( 335i vs. G35/G37 ) ? I'd also test drive a Mercedes C-class: this C230 would be quick, have 4 doors, offer good value for a used car.
Mercedes-Benz : C230 SPORT Sport Mercedes-Benz : C230 SPORT Sport | eBay

We have an 06...70K and going. One seat motor failed this year. Fixed under extended warranty.

- b

I have a 08 g35x and love it. The 09 will be the g37x and has a 7 speed auto instead of the 5 speed auto in mine. Personally I like the 5 speed better for spirited driving and the 7 speed gets a little better mileage. Mine averages about 21-22 combo/rush hour driving while the 7 speed loaner I had got around 24.