By: New Car Test Drive Staff
Photo Credit: Infiniti

Overview

The Infiniti M35 and the more powerful M45 challenge the luxury cars from Europe. The Infiniti M models successfully blend aggression and sophistication for stylish visual flair. Their rosewood-trimmed interiors are luxurious, with comfortable seats and a full array of standard safety equipment. All the requisite luxury accoutrements are there, including keyless push-button starting. More significantly, the M35 and M45 deliver the kind of performance and handling that keep German engineers awake at night.

For 2008, the Infiniti M series received significant styling revisions, and Sport versions now boast a look all their own. Both M35 and M45 are now available with Infiniti's intelligent ATTESA ET-S all-wheel drive. A new Lane Departure Prevention option on 2008 models not only warns the driver if the M is leaving its lane, but selectively applies the brakes to straighten the car's course.

New for 2008 are revised electroluminescent instruments with white lighting and violent accents, standard XM Satellite Radio, and an upgraded (optional) touch-screen navigation system with a 9.3GB hard drive for digital music storage and playback. XM real-time traffic reporting is also available.

The M35 can be rewarding to drive. Its V6 engine is one of the most powerful you can buy. Enthusiast drivers will particularly like Sport Package, which features a firmer suspension and active rear steering. The V8-powered M45 delivers even stronger acceleration; and is also available with the Sport package.

Sedans in the $50,000 range comprise one of the most competitive chunks of the new car market, one loaded with such outstanding machines as the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Cadillac STS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS, Acura RL, and the new Jaguar XF. The Infiniti M leans toward the sportier end of this spectrum, particularly in Sport trim. We strongly recommend a look at the Infiniti M35 or M45 for anyone shopping for a car in this class.