From Autoweek



Leveraging the Power of G: Infiniti hopes to build on the success of the G35 with its new M carsBILL McGUIREPublished Date: 12/27/04

2006 INFINITI M45ON SALE: SpringBASE PRICE: $48,000 (est.)POWERTRAIN: 4.5-liter, 335-hp, 340-lb-ft V8; rwd, five-speed automaticCURB WEIGHT: 3948 pounds 0 to 60 mph: 6.0 seconds (est.)The original Infiniti M45 was introduced in 2002 to mild fanfare then quickly slipped from sight. Based on the Japan-market Cedric/Gloria but with the brilliant 4.5-liter V8 from the Q45 and sporty driver calibrations, it failed to explicate itself. It was hard to know what to make of an elegant, sport, plain, luxury family sedan—glaringly understated yet tastefully overpowered. Some critics liked the M45, others didn’t, while many didn’t make anything of it at all. The term sleeper came up often, an apt description it turned out, as only a few thousand were sold.

But with the overwhelmingly popular and critical success of the G35, Infiniti hit its vector. The old front-drive I35 is gone and the marque, which Nissan takes worldwide in 2005, is now focused on rear-drive coupes and sedans with their knobs set on Sport. Infiniti people say the company wants its new M series to be identified as big brother to the G35. Fair enough, that’s what it is. M equals G Plus, with more room, more appointments and more curbside status.



And even better, if you so choose, with your bigger, more-er version of the G35, you can get the throaty twin-cam V8 from the Q45 in the form of the new M45. The M35 uses the G35’s 3.5-liter V6, and at this level, awd is only available in the M35x. Sport versions of both M35 and M45 are offered, with 19-inch wheels (18-inchers are standard fare). All come equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual sport gate. So while you can now have your own G35 V8, as it were, what you can’t have is one with a clutch pedal and stick shift, as there is no manual available.

The M’s chassis is a stretched, updated version of the G35’s FM platform, which Infiniti says has 30 percent greater torsional rigidity and 1200 percent—yes, 1200 percent—more front lateral rigidity than the old car. The new platform, which in slightly different form underpins the Nissan Z, is that much improved over the old one. While overall length is eight inches shorter than the luxury-leader Q45, the M’s wheelbase is actually one inch longer, at 114.2 inches.

Infiniti's throaty V8 underhood makes for driver satisfaction that is nothing less than dead-center on.

All the latest right pieces are here, advantageously arranged. Suspension is short and long-arm wishbones up front and multilink independent in the rear, while four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake force distribution are M car standard. Infiniti’s vehicle dynamic control is included, as is rear active steering, in which toe is dynamically changed relative to speed and steering input. The stiff superstructure, with wheels stretched to the corners and the engine behind the front wheels, adds up to a package more than capable of hitting the sweet spot in balance, ride and handling in a sport-luxury sedan.

Driving both M45 and M35 Sport models along several Northern California two-lanes leaves you with the impression of a superb highway ride, even with the heftier 19-inch wheels and low-aspect ratio tires on the M45. The steering is quick and light at first, but nowhere near vague; it takes no time to get acclimated to the input and response levels.

On narrow, twisty stretches of road, hustling the M along at higher than customary rates seems easier than it should be, almost effortless. Even in bumpier sections, all four wheels feel firmly planted, with little or no skipping or bounding over ruts and patches. Damping is precise; the increased structural rigidity pays big dividends here.



Power delivery is well-mannered, with either the V6 or the V8. While the 280 hp of the six ought to be enough for anyone (0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds), there is no escaping the charms of the Infiniti V8. Four camshafts, 32 titanium valves, and an output curve accentuated by variable valve timing... just once, it would be nice to feel this power through a set of well-spaced manual gears. Still, the automatic’s manual-shift feature allows any reasonable combination of revs and torque to be called on demand, with no apparent glitches or hiccups.

If a true sport-luxury sedan is one that’s enjoyable to drive on road or highway, at normal speeds or briskly, then mission accomplished with the new Infiniti M. Though one or two drives aren’t enough to draw more than a sketch, you will be empowered enough by the experience to be impressed.

The interior is tasteful and impressive.

The M holds the middle slot in Infiniti’s luxury car lineup, between the G35 and the mighty Q45. Prices have not been released, but the M35 is expected to start around $43,000 with the M45 in the higher 40s when the cars go on sale this spring. (To compare: Acura RL starts around $46,000; Jaguar S-Type, $44,895; Cadillac CTS-V, $49,995.)

To be sure, the new Infiniti M cars will make a much stronger impression than the M45 they replace. And in the meantime, the bar has been raised. In a market littered with 400-hp, even 500-hp sport-luxury sedans with a DVD player in every cupholder, this M must draw attention to its strength, the overall balance of the package. Can it? We wager they sell more than a few thousand copies of this.

M35/45 review from Cars-direct.



Preview: 2006 Infiniti MWritten by Christian J. WardlawPhotos Courtesy of InfinitiWritten: 04/08/04Updated: 10/29/04

IRVINE, CA - When the Infiniti M45 Concept debuted at the 2004 New York Auto Show, Mark Igo, vice president and general manager of Infiniti, called it “a true luxury sedan like no other, balanced between sportiness, luxury and roominess.” When we laid our eyes and hands on the car, we agreed: Unlike the Q45, the 2006 Infiniti M exuded instant appeal, representing a huge improvement over the current model in terms of style.

But today’s luxury car buyers expect more than style; they expect substance. Now that detailed specifications for the production version of the M45 Concept have been made available, it’s clear that Infiniti is poised to deliver when the 2006 M goes on sale in the spring of 2005.

Based on a more rigid next-generation front-midship (FM) platform that positions engine weight behind the front axle for improved handling balance, the new 2006 Infiniti M will be available in two flavors: the M35 with a 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 and the M45 with a 340-horsepower, 4.5-liter V8; both fired with push-start control through a standard Infiniti Intelligent Key system and both requiring premium unleaded fuel.

Power flows through a five-speed automatic transmission with a short-throw manual shift feature to 18-inch rear wheels, and the M35x model features all-wheel-drive. Buy the M35 Sport or the M45 Sport and you’ll get a Rear Active Steer system that adjusts the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed, as well as 19-inch lightweight wheels wearing 245/40 performance tires. Run-flat tires and chrome-finish wheels are optional on non-Sport models, and just in case the driver exceeds the limits of talent a standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) stability control system is on alert to make course corrections.

Chock full of the features that most people expect in a luxury car of this caliber, standard equipment includes Bluetooth wireless communications. Options such as a rear DVD-based entertainment system and a RearView Monitor with wheel trajectory pathing are available. However, on the technology front, the 2006 Infiniti M is particularly notable for its optional Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system. This technology reads lane markings and warns the driver if unintended lane drift is detected.

To keep occupants even safer, the Infiniti M includes a tire pressure monitor as well as an Advanced Airbag System (AABS) of dual-stage front airbags with occupant classification and side-curtain airbags. Pre-crash front seatbelts that can sense an impending collision and prepare the restraints for impact are optional.

Additional techie bits and pieces include standard voice recognition technology for a number of interior features, an optional intelligent cruise control designed to maintain a safe distance behind the car ahead, and HID headlights that swivel with the steering to help illuminate around curves (standard on Sport models; optional on others).



Genuine Rosewood or aluminum trim, combined with leather upholstery, outfit the Infiniti M’s cabin, which also includes an electrofluorescent “solar eclipse” gauge cluster and a 160-watt sound system with in-dash CD changer and MP3 playback capability. An impressive Bose Studio Surround audio system with 14 speakers, including two mounted inside the front seats, is optional.

The 2006 Infiniti M is also a roomy car, offering generous space for four adults (five can ride in back if necessary). Climate-controlled front seats are optional, and buyers can equip the M with heated and reclining rear seats if they wish.

In terms of year-over-year sales gains, Infiniti has been leading the luxury segment for two consecutive years on the strength of the G35 Coupe, the G35 Sedan, and the FX SUV. Initial impressions suggest that the 2006 Infiniti M35 and M45 will continue the company’s winning streak.

Obviously, the days when Infiniti played deal-of-the-month incentives games are quickly fading from memory.

Automobile Magazine

2006 Infiniti M35/45

Available this spring, the production versions of the all-new 2006 M35 and 45 sedans are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 and 4.5-liter V-8, respectively. The V-6 is good for 280 hp and 270 lb-ft and the V-8 will produce 335 hp and 340 lb-ft. Both powerplants are mated to a five-speed manu-matic transmission. We've driven the cars, and they're quite good. And though the driving dynamics and feedback aren't as outstanding or communicative as they could be, they lend credence to the lofty aspirations Infiniti has set for itself and make the M a true contender for the mid-size luxury-sedan crown.

The dynamically improved M is built on Nissan's successful FM platform, which already underpins the Nissan 350Z and the Infiniti G35 and FX35/45. Sport models feature what Infiniti has dubbed Rear Active Steer, which adjusts the rear suspension based upon driver steering input and vehicle speed, as well as nineteen-inch wheels and stiffer springs and dampers. An all-wheel-drive system is only available with the V-6 M35.

The exterior of the new M is more appealing than the outgoing model, but still fairly bland. Inside, leather upholstery is joined by aluminum trim on Sport models and rosewood on the rest. Options include intelligent cruise control, Bose sound, DVD entertainment, and a lane departure warning system, among others. In all, five models will be offered: M35, M35 Sport, M35x AWD, M45, and M45 Sport.

Autobytel



The Infiniti M, originally unveiled at last year’s New York International Auto Show, will be offered in five models: the M35 (V6 rear-wheel drive), M35x AWD (V6 all-wheel drive), M35 Sport (V6 rear-wheel drive with Rear Active Steer and 19-inch wheels and tires), M45 (V8 rear-wheel drive) and M45 Sport (V8 rear-wheel drive with Rear Active Steer and 19-inch wheels and tires). All are equipped with 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Other standard features include leather-appointed seats, Intelligent Key with push button ignition, voice recognition, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, in-dash 6-disc changer with MP3 playback, revised Infiniti Vehicle Information System with 7-inch LCD screen and easy-to-use controls mounted on both the console and the steering wheel, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 10-way power driver’s seat, power-sliding sunroof and Advanced Air Bag System (AABS).

The M35 Sport and M45 Sport models offer standard 19-inch wheels and tires (18-inch wheels and tires are standard on non-Sport models), sport-tuned suspension with Rear Active Steer, xenon headlamps with advanced front lighting system, climate controlled sport front seats, premium steering wheel and aluminum interior trim accents.

The M45 features a 4.5-liter V8, shared with the Infiniti Q45 and FX45. It is rated at 340-horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The M35 utilizes an advanced 3.5-liter V6 rated at 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is part of the VQ engine series found in the G35 and FX35. Every Infiniti M utilizes the FM (Front Mid-ship) platform currently used on the G35 sedan, G35 coupe and FX crossover SUV. According to Infiniti, approximately 60 percent of the platform design and components have been enhanced for use with the 2006 M. The FM platform positions the engine behind the front axle. This positioning results in an ideal front-to-rear weight balance, which factors in weight transfer during key handling maneuvers. The Infiniti M’s large diameter wheels and tires are positioned out near the corners of the vehicle, helping to further enhance handling and driving excitement. The M suspension is an independent double-wishbone design in front and multi-link independent system in the rear

Interior features for the 2006 Infiniti M include genuine Rosewood or aluminum trim, leather-appointed seats, a “Solar Eclipse” instrument lighting system and available climate controlled front seats, heated power reclining rear seats and advanced Bose® Studio Surround™ sound audio system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and 14 speakers including two personal speakers mounted in each front seat. The interior also offers several technology features, including the Infiniti Intelligent Key system with push button ignition. This system eliminates the need to take the key fob out of your pocket when locking, unlocking and starting the engine. Other features include standard Bluetooth wireless connectivity, available RearView Monitor, available Intelligent Cruise Control and available Infiniti DVD-based Navigation System with a new user interface featuring voice-activated destination entry as well as HVAC and audio control. The Infiniti M is also a showcase for Infiniti’s new Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system.

The system recognizes lane markings and calculates the lateral distance between the vehicle and the lane marking, along with vehicle speed relative to the marking, and generates an audible signal to warn the driver of a pending, unintended lane departure. Engagement of the turn signal turns off the system, which also features a driver defeat switch. The Infiniti LDW system is currently available in the 2005 Infiniti FX crossover SUV, the first production passenger vehicle in North America to feature LDW. Other safety features include dual-stage front supplemental air bags and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags, and available brake-operated pre-crash front seat belts, which tighten under emergency braking in anticipation of an evasive maneuver or crash.

From Nissannews

2006 Infiniti M Offers Premium Luxury, Athletic Performance and Intuitive Technology

Infiniti continues to challenge the status quo among luxury brands with the upcoming introduction of yet another category-breaking vehicle, the 2006 Infiniti M. The new M, which is scheduled for sale in spring 2005 as a 2006 model, captures essential elements of both the Q45 luxury performance sedan and the award-winning Infiniti G35 – and takes them to a new level of engaging luxury and performance. Together with the flagship Q45 and sporty G35, the 2006 M gives Infiniti an exceptional lineup of dynamic luxury performance sedans.

The Infiniti M will be offered in five models: the M35 (V6 rear-wheel drive), M35x AWD (V6 all-wheel drive), M35 Sport (V6 rear-wheel drive with Rear Active Steer and 19-inch wheels and tires), M45 (V8 rear-wheel drive) and M45 Sport (V8 rear-wheel drive with Rear Active Steer and 19-inch wheels and tires).

All Infiniti M models are equipped with an advanced 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Other standard features include leather-appointed seats, Intelligent Key with push button ignition, voice recognition, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, in-dash 6-disc changer with MP3 playback, revised Infiniti Vehicle Information System with 7-inch LCD screen and easy-to-use controls mounted on both the console and the steering wheel, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 10-way power driver’s seat, power-sliding sunroof and Advanced Air Bag System (AABS).

The M35 Sport and M45 Sport models offer standard 19-inch wheels and tires (18-inch wheels and tires are standard on non-Sport models), sport-tuned suspension with Rear Active Steer, xenon headlamps with advanced front lighting system, climate controlled sport front seats, premium steering wheel and aluminum interior trim accents.

“The Infiniti M is an expression of power, refinement, technology and design – all the things that make Infiniti owners’ hearts pound,” said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti Division. “We have captured the soul of the Infiniti brand, expressing it in invigorating, forward thinking ways.”

An Enhanced FM Platform

The new Infiniti M is available with a choice of V8 or V6 engines, with the vehicles designated M45 and M35 respectively. The M45 features a powerful DOHC 4.5-liter V8, shared with the flagship Infiniti Q45 and FX45. It is rated at 335-340-horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. The M35 utilizes an advanced DOHC 3.5-liter V6 rated at 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is part of the award-winning VQ engine series found in the G35 and FX35.

Every Infiniti M utilizes a new generation of the FM (Front Mid-ship) platform currently used on the G35 sedan, G35 coupe and FX premium crossover SUV. Approximately 60 percent of the platform design and components have been enhanced for use with the 2006 M.

Like the previous generation, the new, redefined FM platform positions the engine behind the front axle. This positioning results in an optimized front-to-rear weight balance, which factors in weight transfer during key handling maneuvers. The Infiniti M’s large diameter wheels and tires are positioned out near the corners of the vehicle, helping to further enhance handling and driving excitement.

The M suspension is an independent double-wishbone design in front and multi-link independent system in the rear.

Sensuous Exterior Design

From a design standpoint, the new Infiniti M optimizes both luxury and sport styling to create a dynamic visual sensation. The expressive, jewel-like grille and crystal-look headlight clusters offer a luxurious appeal, while large 18- or 19-inch wheels and low profile tires, a stable posture with wide track, and short overhangs contribute to the sportiness of the design.

The Infiniti M also offers a low, aggressive hoodline, which flows into the anchored shoulders and contributes to the sporty, powerful silhouette. The roofline is fluid, while the hood and front fenders are sculpted to provide a solid, muscular look. In the rear, L-shaped LED taillights and quad tailpipes finish out the exterior design.

The M’s long wheelbase and short overhangs provide a roomy interior and sporty exterior dimensions. Wide front and rear tracks add to handling stability, while the overall width enhances interior and trunk volume. Also featured are lightweight body components, including aluminum-alloy inner and outer door panels, hood and decklid panels. The M’s aerodynamic design results in zero front lift and the available rear spoiler offers zero rear lift.

Confident, Explosive Performance and New Rear Active Steer

At the heart of the 2006 Infiniti M is the high-performance power of the V8 or V6 powerplants, each mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission with short-throw performance shifter with manual shift mode.

The advanced braking system is designed to offer confidence-inspiring pedal feel and enhanced pedal response, while the steering system is designed to provide an engaging driving experience through a high-flow hydraulic boost system and micro-polished steering gear and robust rack mounting. Every 2006 Infiniti M also features Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).

Along with its advanced engine design, the Infiniti M is also offered with a state-of-the-art “intelligent” all-wheel drive system. The M35 AWD model features Infiniti’s ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system, which is also utilized on the Infiniti FX45 and FX35 AWD premium crossover SUVs and G35 sedan.

The system’s advanced torque split control strategy automatically transfers optimum torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions. It provides outstanding cornering capability similar to a sports car due to optimum torque distribution to the front and rear wheels.

The handling and stability of the Infiniti M Sport models is further optimized by a new Infiniti Rear Active Steer system. Unlike passive rear steering systems, this design features motor-driven control. This system helps improve the M Sport’s handling performance by adjusting the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed.

The system’s electronic control unit calculates the desired vehicle dynamics from a series of sensors, including vehicle speed and steering angle, and directs the system actuator to change rear geometry by moving both rear suspension lower links. The result is sports car-like agility, combined with luxury sedan stability and ride quality.

A Highly Personalized, Enriching Interior Atmosphere

The new M’s interior design engages the senses in new and invigorating ways, combining a driver-oriented cockpit with a graceful, Infiniti level of luxury and design detail.

“The interior of the M is designed to provide a ‘hand-in-glove fit.’ It is the most indulgent, high-quality design that Infiniti has ever offered – one that indicates a new wave of Infiniti interior design,” said Igo. “It reflects a more passionate interior direction, which is already starting to appear in production Infiniti vehicles like the 2005 G35.”

The modern and intuitive interior layout focuses on purposeful simplicity. Interior features include genuine Rosewood or aluminum trim, leather-appointed seats, an advanced “Solar Eclipse” instrument lighting system, and available climate controlled front seats, heated power reclining rear seats and advanced Bose® Studio Surround™ sound audio system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and 14 speakers including two personal speakers mounted in each front seat.

“This is, without a doubt, the finest audio system ever created for an Infiniti vehicle, with sound performance that matches the car’s incredible driving performance,” said Igo.

The interior also offers an array of driver and passenger-oriented technology features, including the Infiniti Intelligent Key system with push button ignition. This system eliminates the need to take the key fob out of your pocket when locking, unlocking and starting the engine. Other features include standard Bluetooth wireless connectivity, available RearView Monitor, available Intelligent Cruise Control and available Infiniti DVD-based Navigation System with a new user interface featuring voice-activated destination entry as well as HVAC and audio control.

High Tech Safety Systems with New Lane Departure System

The Infiniti M is also a showcase for the latest in Infiniti safety technology, including an available new Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system. The system recognizes lane markings and calculates the lateral distance between the vehicle and the lane marking, along with vehicle speed relative to the marking, and generates an audible signal to warn the driver of a pending, unintended lane departure. Engagement of the turn signal turns off the system, which also features a driver defeat switch.

“Over 55 percent of fatal auto accidents in the United States are caused by lane departures, including single vehicle and head-on accidents,” said Igo. “The LDW system is an important advancement in vehicle safety technology.”

The Infiniti LDW system is currently available in the 2005 Infiniti FX crossover SUV, the first production passenger vehicle in North America to feature LDW.

Other safety features include an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage front supplemental air bags with Occupant Classification System and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags and available brake-operated pre-crash front seat belts, which tighten under emergency braking in anticipation of an evasive maneuver or crash.

The Evolution of Luxury

“Luxury has evolved from what was once traditional, status-oriented luxury, to what has come to be a more meaningful, personal approach to luxury. The exhilarating new 2006 Infiniti M is yet another example of Infiniti’s leadership in providing luxury that appeals to both the soul and intelligence of the driver,” said Igo.

From Nissannews

At a Glance: 2006 Infiniti M

The all-new Infiniti M, which is scheduled for sale in spring 2005 as a 2006 model, captures essential elements of both the Q45 luxury performance sedan and the award-winning Infiniti G35 – and takes them to a new level of engaging luxury and performance. Together with the flagship Q45 and sporty G35, the 2006 M gives Infiniti an exceptional lineup of dynamic luxury performance sedans.

The Infiniti M optimizes both luxury and sport styling to create a dynamic visual appeal. The exterior design features a low, aggressive hoodline, which flows into the anchored shoulders and contributes to the sporty, powerful silhouette. Inside, the interior is highly expressive, combining a driver-oriented cockpit with an inviting design detail.

At the heart of the Infiniti M is the high-performance power of a choice of advanced V8 or V6 engines, with the vehicles badged M45 or M35 respectively. The M45 features the 4.5-liter DOHC V8 currently used in the Infiniti Q45 and FX45. For use in the M45, it produces 335-340 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. The M35 is powered by a 3.5-liter DOHC V6 producing 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a standard 5-speed automatic transmission with short-throw performance shifter and manual shift mode. The M35 also features an available intelligent all-wheel drive system.

Advanced technology is abundant on the new M – starting with the standard Bluetooth wireless connectivity, an all-new Vehicle Information System with 7-inch LCD screen and easy-to-use controls, voice recognition and Tire Pressure Monitor System. M Sport models feature a new Rear Active Steer system, which helps improve vehicle handling performance by adjusting the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed. Also featured on the M is an available Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system, which warns the driver of a pending, unintended lane departure.

Highlights of the 2006 Infiniti M include:

Body• Sporty, luxurious design• Expressive, jewel-like grille and crystal-look headlight cluster• Stable posture with long wheelbase (114.2 inches), wide track and short overhangs• Low, aggressive hoodline and anchored shoulders provides a sporty, powerful silhouette• Advanced unibody construction with a very high level of torsional rigidity• Front lighting system with HID xenon headlamps

Engine and Driveline• 32-valve 4.5-liter DOHC V8 producing 335-340 horsepower (M45) or 24-valve 3.5-liter DOHC V6 producing 280 horsepower (M35)• Modular cylinder head design, lightweight pistons, titanium valves, continuously variable valve timing, variable length induction system• 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode• Enhanced, “next generation” FM (Front Mid-ship) platform with 60 percent of the platform design and components enhanced for use with the M• Infiniti’s intelligent all-wheel drive system available on the M35• Quad-tipped exhaust tail pipes

Suspension, Steering and Braking• Double-wishbone independent front suspension• Multi-link independent rear suspension with Rear Active Steer (Sport model)• Enhanced braking system with 4-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)• Enhanced power-assisted steering system with sport ratio• 18-inch or 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and low profile tires

Interior Features• Inviting interior with use of aluminum or genuine Rosewood trim and leather appointments• Large cabin space, able to fit five adult passengers comfortably• Infiniti Intelligent Key system with push-button ignition• In-dash 6-disc changer with MP3 compatibility• Available climate controlled front seats• Contemporary easy-to-use instrument panel• Bluetooth wireless connectivity• Advanced “Solar Eclipse” instrument lighting system• Power-sliding glass sunroof• Available Bose® Studio Surround™ sound audio system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and 14 speakers including two personal speakers mounted in each front seat• Available Infiniti DVD-based Navigation System with a new user interface with voice-activated destination entry• Available RearView Monitor with a wide lens view and new wheel trajectory view feature• Available Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)• Available rear seat DVD Mobile Entertainment System with roof-mounted 8-inch screen, remote control and two wireless headphones

Safety and Security• Available Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system with cancel switch, which alerts driver of unintended lane departure• Zone Body platform design, with front and rear crumple zones• Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage front supplemental air bags and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags• Available brake-operated pre-crash front seat belts

Models and Manufacturing• Available in five models: M35, M35x AWD, M35 Sport, M45 and M45 Sport• Exterior and interior designed at Nissan Technical Center (NTC) in Atsugi, Japan• Assembled by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. at Tochigi, Japan

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AWESOME info!!!

It appears as if the Infiniti name on the rocker panel is lighted!

Yeah, looks like the threshold I N F I N I T I is back lite. I had noticed that on some of the Car Show pics and wasn't sure if it was going to make it into production, nice.

The more pics I see of this thing the more I like it. The interior is out of this world! I'm almost 50-50 when it comes to new M vs. current M (I was pro current M before).

The Feb 05 Car and Driver has a new test drive article on the M45. I just got it today. They seemed to have realy liked the M a lot.

Man, real pics of the M45 in natural light look SO much better than the airbrushed crap.

Still, I hate the new design where every damn button is crammed into a center pod. They say its better for keeping your eyes on the road, which may be entirely true, but I like my components separated.

<- Old school and resistant to change.

The only thing that really worries me is the performance. I'd expect more than a 6 sec. 0-60 time for the 4.5, if Autoweek's time is accurate. That would make is slower than the current M, and more inline with the G. Call me greedy, but for almost 60 large, I want more.

I could have sworn that this car was an Altima before I saw the Infiniti Badge. Cute car, but not worth the $.

louiegz wrote:The Feb 05 Car and Driver has a new test drive article on the M45. I just got it today. They seemed to have realy liked the M a lot.

I haven't received my Feb C&D yet, but the Feb Motor Trend arrived yesterday, and they had a pretty comprehensive review of the M45 as well. "The Punching Bag Hits Back". Looking forward to C&D's review, and I suspect Road and Track will have one as well. They all seem to get access to the new cars at the same time. The Autoweek review was very positive. What will be most interesting in the coming months is how the car will fare in the inevitable sport sedan comparos. Looks like the car has the driving chops, but I would hardly call it a styling tour de force.

Russ

EQwhipD wrote:I could have sworn that this car was an Altima before I saw the Infiniti Badge. Cute car, but not worth the $.

Altima? I mean, sure it shares family resemblance, but this car is much bigger. What car offers half this much for under 50k? None that I know of, and IMO this is a beautiful car with an unbelieveable interior. I still love the current M though, and hope the see the price hit mid 20's in another year or two so I can get one.

It's great to see all the good press Infiniti is getting! Pretty much all the reviews seem to really like the car.

EQwhipD wrote:I could have sworn that this car was an Altima before I saw the Infiniti Badge. Cute car, but not worth the $.

While I would not have mistaken it for an Altima, I have to agree in general! It is the exterior "blandness" and "genericness" of the newer Q45 and 2005+ M45 Infiniti models that I find sad. I once mistook a 2002 or 2003 Q45 for a Maxima (!) from a side view and the new M45 does not stand out either.

It was the unique looks (and performance, of course!) of the 1991 Q45 (back in 1991) and the 2003 M45 (now) that led me to buy them. Yes, the interior of the current 2003 M45 is not as slick as the new one, and yes, the features are not as cool, but the exterior is way more original and distinct and recognizable on the road. You cannot mistake it for another bland car!

So, sorry, I still lean way towards the current-gen 2003-2004 M45. It is a very worthy replacement of the 1990-1996 series Q45 model and should be the standard "next" car for all early Q45 owners on this board. Period!

Z

Generally, in most luxury lines, vehicles get larger and slower but more powerful and comfortable as you go up the ladder. For whatever reason, it was the opposite with Infiniti for about a decade.

I'm sorry, but it is completely reminiscent of an Altima minus the rims and hood. I hope that Infiniti can sell it as well not fo selfish interest , but for the company as a whole that needs a boost in sales and notoriety. One problem with Infiniti is that there seems to be very little spent in advertising, which causes a major problem. When a company doesn't advertise it's products seem distant and inaccessible to the consumer masses. The Infiniti product is by far one of the greatest in the automobile industry, but advertising does not seem to be a priority in the corporation. Unlike with most other car companies that have to flood the airwaves with advertiisng to try to convince the consumer to buy the car; advertising from Infiniti should take another route because of its superior product. If given the opportunity to showcase their products in multiple ads, the cars will sel themselves. It is going to take a lot more to sell the Infiniti brand than to show its lineup driving through snow like the commercials of present.Evan (NC)

szhosain wrote:So, sorry, I still lean way towards the current-gen 2003-2004 M45. It is a very worthy replacement of the 1990-1996 series Q45 model and should be the standard "next" car for all early Q45 owners on this board. Period!

Z

Infiniti was pretty smart with their timing in releasing the 2003 M. It was around the G35 release boom (which is still going on according to my paychecks ) and they were able to take a chance on a more controversal design without fear of losing customers. Since the current M isn't selling, they had to take a more conservative approach to the M this time around to make a loyal customer base out of M customers as they did with G customers. The one thing I can say about the new M is that even though it doesn't have the standout looks like the current one, I still have yet to hear someone say it's flat out ugly. Instead of either liking the styling or not liking it, all most people can say now is "It's a nice car".

I think it has the perfect blend of sportiness and luxury, and from what my boss told me it's a damn good performer too!

The current M has the styling that fits my "Don't wanna drive something EVERYBODY my age has" attitude, so that's the only reason I'd choose it first. But if both were the same price...sorry but the new M rocks!

Evan,

Apparently, you work for an Infiniti dealer? If so, which one?

Sometime this year, my wife will/might replace her aging Acura 2.2CL. While she is leaning toward another Acura (the TL), I am trying to convince her to go for a G35 - probably the sedan. If I am successful, I would love to talk to you about getting a G35 through you (if you are in the sales end of things!)

Z

Syed, I work for Niello Infiniti in Concord. I'd love to take you on as a potential customer, but I'm in the middle of a possible transfer to Indianapolis and I'm not allowed to work with any more potential customers than I already have. I can however recommend the people you should work with if you decide to go G35. Definitly work with Niello Infiniti. If your wife goes Acura, we also have an award winning Acura store in Sacramento. Long drive from San Jose, but it'll be worth your while. I can also recommend some good people there, as well as Niello BMW, Mini, Porche, Land Rover, Audi, and Volkswagen. Just let me know by email and I'll make the "take good care of him" calls

2 things to note about the M

It has been PROVEN that the M gets faster when it breaks in..... And also it is the first infiniti to have a 100+ trap speed...

road and track ran a 0-60 in 5.3 and a 1/4 of 13.8 on an m45 with 50k miles

0-60 of 5.6 seconds.Qtr mile 14.2 at 101.Top speed limited at 155.

Thanks much!

Z

I know I posted all this and everything, but I prefer the current M45 over the newer style just on looks alone. Especially, that grey one with the huge brake kit that was posted a few months back, and the small white one I posted in the other thread.,