2001 INFINITI I30

The I30 is Infiniti's mid-size sedan, built on the same bones as the Nissan Maxima but with a quieter cabin and more standard luxury features. The engine gives you a strong surge when you need it, and the transmission shifts smoothly enough that you barely notice it working. The cabin feels genuinely upscale for the price, with a leather interior and a moonroof that make it look and feel like a more expensive car. Owners say it's easy on gas and oil, but non-routine parts can be expensive and some sensors are known to fail. The I30 is the only trim, so you get the full luxury package without needing to step up to a higher grade. Its 3.0L V6 makes 227 horsepower, and the four-speed automatic keeps things smooth around town, though it's a four-speed in an era when five was becoming common. The optional side airbags are worth finding, since they weren't standard and add a layer of protection this chassis didn't come with.