The last-generation Infiniti G37 coupe was a viable rival to the popular BMW 3-Series, and the revamped 2008 G37 coupe is even more of a threat -- especially the G37 Sport.

Of course, the rear-wheel-drive G37 doesn't have the revered BMW nameplate, which is likely to impress more folks than one from Infiniti, which is struggling to get a more upscale image.

BMW sold sporty coupes here decades before Nissan established its Infiniti division, but the G37 should give the BMW 3-Series models a good fight -- especially if price is an issue.

The 330-horsepower G37 Sport I tested with its slick six-speed manual transmission and smooth clutch lists at $35,550. That's about $5,000 less than its closest 3-Series rival, the 335i coupe, which has 300 horsepower.

The word is out. For instance, the Cars.com Consumer Search Index shows the G37 is among redesigned or new models such as the Cadillac CTS that are seeing a significant increase in consumer interest.

It's about time Infiniti came out with a new "G" coupe because the 2003-07 coupe was basically unchanged. The 2008 G37 coupe is slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor. It looks similar but is sleeker, with a much higher-line interior.

The G37 is a kick to drive. Its quick steering has the right amount of power assist. Handling is sharp, and there's a $1,300 four-wheel Active Steer Package that makes handling crisper by adjusting front steering gear ratios and the rear suspension geometry according to steering input and vehicle speed.

Strong brakes are activated with a progressive-action pedal. However, the ride with the available sport suspension is jerky on some rough roads.

This new Infiniti is plenty fast. All three new G37 coupe models have the larger new 3.7-liter, 330-horsepower V-6, which has a higher compression ratio and variable valve timing. The previous coupe's 3.5-liter V-6 had 275 horsepower with an automatic transmission and 293 horsepower with a manual gearbox.

Other G37s are the $34,250 entry model, while an entry BMW $35,300 328i coupe with 230 horsepower costs $35,300.

The $35,000 G37 Coupe Journey has such items as a dual climate control system and heated seats. One can get the $1,850 Sport Package for the Journey version but not for the base G37.

That package -- standard on the Sport -- is an especially good deal for driving enthusiasts because it includes sport seats, wider tires (45-series front, 40-series rear) on bigger 19-inch wheels, sport suspension, limited-slip differential and uprated brakes. However, while supple, the sport suspension occasionally delivers a jerky ride on rough roads.

Tire stems have metal (not the usual rubber) caps, which is a small-but-stylish touch appreciated each time an owner checks tire pressures. Chromed dual exhaust outlets help give the car a sporty flair.

Options include a $2,200 navigation package, $1,000 power sliding sunroof, nicely integrated (but costly) $550 rear spoiler and a $650 performance wheel and tire package. A $3,200 Premium package contains a killer "Infiniti Studio on Wheels" 11-speaker Bose premium sound system and such items as a power tilt/telescoping wheel, Infiniti iPod interface system and power sunroof.

The G37's smooth engine whisks the G37 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds and to 100 mph in 13.2 seconds. Even Ferraris never used to be that quick.

Estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway with a five-speed automatic transmission and 17 and 26 with the revised short-throw six-speed manual.

The base G37 and Journey version come only with the automatic transmission, while the G37 Sport comes with just the manual gearbox.

The G37 coupe is based on Infiniti's G35 sedan, which got major improvements for 2007 and thus is little changed for 2008. While handsome and roomier than the G37, the G35 isn't as sporty, although it's fun to drive despite being more utilitarian with extra doors and a roomier back seat.

My test G37 had lots of comfort, convenience and safety features, including anti-skid and traction control -- and front side-impact and side curtain air bags.

Long, heavy doors make it awkward to get in or out in tight spots. Once inside the quiet interior, there's plenty of room up front in well-bolstered seats. Rear visibility is OK, thanks partly to large outside rearview mirrors.

The back-seat area is roomy behind a passenger, but legroom is tight behind a driver. And getting in or out of the back seat is a hassle. Also, the small rear windows are fixed and thus don't open or close.

Most coupe buyers know such a car is inherently impractical, compared with a sedan; they want a sporty, more stylish car, not one with a roomy back seat.

Gauges can be easily read. Climate system controls are OK, but sound system controls work with a distracting dashboard screen. The glove compartment is small, but doors have fairly roomy storage pockets and the console storage bin is moderately sized. Front cupholders have a cover when not in use and there are pullout dual rear cupholders.

The rather shallow trunk has a wide, but high, opening. The lid pops up smoothly on twin struts and has an inside cover to provide a nice, finished look and to hold down sound levels. Even the interior of the hood has sound-deadening insulation.

The Infiniti G37 and BMW 335i have nearly identical performance. Infiniti must always deal with the BMW nameplate, but let's see how far the G37's considerable price advantage gets it.