2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible

Infiniti has categorically denied any plans to saw the roof off its G37 coupe, but frankly, we just don't believe them. From a sales standpoint, the opportunity is just too great - especially now that the G has grown into the boasts of its maker's "Japanese BMW" aspirations.

You can expect the G37 convertible to have a folding hard top and four seat belts, much like its Bavarian competition. Power will come from the G37 coupe's 330-hp, 3.7-liter V-6, and we wouldn't be surprised if the Infiniti FX's new seven-speed automatic made its G-debut here. (A seven-speed would one-up the paltry six-speed in the BMW 3-series and also possibly boost performance.) Like all hardtop convertibles, the G will gain weight and lose cargo capacity when it ditches its fixed roof. But it also will be the most attractive Japanese convertible on the market and a relative bargain compared with any of its competition. We've said it before, and we'll say it again: Germany, look out.

TO CONVERTIBLES, AND BEYOND! Infiniti hasn't produced a droptop since the 1991-92 M30, and it's high time the company filled that gap in its lineup. A folding-top G37 is the final step in cementing the brand's position as a true alternative to the usual suspects from Europe.