See Infiniti's G35 on the street, in a parking lot, on a freeway, and the reaction is always the same. "It's gorgeous." No matter the G35 has been around four years, long enough to be familiar to entry lux fans, and gained an overhaul a year ago. The toned exterior, more aggressive in stance with low-flowing hoodline, steep sloping rear deck and plenty of glass give an almost sportscar appearance to this sedan.

Infiniti didn't mess too much with a good thing for 2006, adding some entertainment/communications electronics and a new color to the exterior palatte. One can almost envision what "Liquid Platinum" would look like from the sound of the words alone: Richly flowing, almost luminsescent, in the palest shade of gray. Optional satellite radio comes to G35 for '06, along with Bluetooth advanced communications capability. Satellite-ready installation from the factory in Japan is $350 for either XM Satellite or Serius versions. (Rarely do vehicle makers offer both options.) Such technologies are almost mandatory now for a car to stay in the entry level luxury ranks.

Despite its status as a luxurious performance-oriented vehicle, some of G35's attributes can be felt rather than seen. Technology underscores what Infiniti calls this generation's "pulse raising performance." We call it temptation on wheels. Heart of the design is a racing inspired engine placement for more performance and stability. A wider stance, under lopped off front and rear bumper-hiding fascias, contributes to better balance and handling and overall driveability. Power comes from an advanced 3.5-liter, 280-HP V-6 with an electronic "drive-by-wire" system, standard on all models. HP jumps to 298 when the six-speed manual (instead of five-speed automatic with manual mode) slams into gear. Although derived as a rear-drive vehicle, the G35 has an available "intelligent" all-wheel-drive system with advanced traction and torque features. Inside is standard leather seating. Wood trim, including optional straight-grained Rosewood, enhances real aluminum highlights.

Base prices are in the low $30K range, with premium packages raising that to the mid-30s. Most expensive add-ons are a nav system ($1,800), sunroof ($1,000) and sets of chrome wheels (about $400 each wheel). A sport-tuned suspension for more driving salsa adds $750. While G35 smacks of luxurious driving with an attitude at a surprisingly affordable price in three different variants, let's not forget the flip side. Redesigned G35 coupes, with rakish trim including revised spoiler, side slits and pavement sniffing front fascia have their own following for about a $2,000 higher base price.