2006 Infiniti M45 Review

Specifications

Set to Smash the Japanese Brands Large Car Sales Woes

Just one look is all it takes to see that the new Infiniti M will leave the current models sales woes far behind in a distant memory. At least thats the way I felt when I first saw the M45 “Concept” in New York earlier this year, hardly disguised from this very impressive production version. Since its model year 2003 introduction the M45 has never taken hold of the midsize luxury market, due in part to conservative mid-pack styling and heavy-handed performance.

The upcoming 2006 model has pulled the best styling details from the current model and melded them with an all-new design heavily influenced by the top-selling G35 sedan and flagship Q45.

Infiniti is bullish about the new models appeal, with Mark Igo, vice president and general manager of Infiniti stating the new model is “a true luxury sedan like no other, balanced between sportiness, luxury and roominess.” He adds the words, “masculine, aggressive and bold” to the list of superlatives, and without doubt hell be getting few willing to oppose.

The new M will feature multivalve, DOHC 3.5-liter V6 and 4.5-liter V8 engines, which in 2005 Infiniti trim make anywhere from 277 to 295 horsepower for the former and 340 horsepower for the latter. Infiniti says the V6 will boast 275 plus horsepower, so expect something closer to its highest rating given the added weight of the midsize model.

Both engines are expected to be mated to the brands short-throw performance-oriented 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. There is no word as to whether the Japanese automaker will offer a 6-speed manual with the base car, but such would follow Nissan/Infiniti tradition as of late.

Handling should improve dramatically too, as the M will feature an enhanced, “next generation” variation of the front-midship (FM) architecture that has made the G35 a serious rival to the longtime benchmark BMW 3-Series. The M versions wheelbase will be stretched to 2,900 mm (114.2 inches) and widened, but the platforms general dynamics should carry forward intact, sure to make the M one of the most entertaining cars in its class. The cars turn-in will be enhanced by a sport ratio power-assisted steering system as well.

The FM design also will provide for much more room than the current M, especially in the rear where passengers of a 2004 model may feel a bit claustrophobic.

Infiniti has made a name for pampering its owners with esthetically pleasing interiors, and the new M wont break from the mold. The cockpit is driver oriented, yet all passengers will experience a roomy seating area and high-grade creature comforts. Design details will include etched aluminum or genuine Rosewood
trim, leather seats, door trim and accents, plus a variety of top-tier technologies, a short list which includes a DVD-based Navigation System and Intelligent Key system with an accompanying push button ignition system. The upcoming M will also feature new technologies that debuted on the show car, namely a new Rear Active Steer suspension system that adjusts the geometry of the rear according to steering input and vehicle speed and a new Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system. LDW, developed by Iteris and making its North American automotive production debut in the 2005 FX, reads lane markings and warns occupants if a lane drift is detected. Another safety feature shown on the prototype earlier this year is a pre-crash front seatbelt system, which can sense an impending collision and prepare the restraints for impact.

The brands ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system that underpins the FX35, FX45 and G35x will also be available, as will the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) stability control system. Large diameter 19-inch twin-spoked wheels shod with performance tires will add style and substance, enhancing at-the-limit performance.

Infiniti have not made mention as to whether the HID headlights that swivel with the steering to illuminate the road ahead around curves, intelligent cruise control designed to maintain a safe distance behind the car ahead, or voice recognition technology for a number of interior features will be part of the road-going production model, but much of this will most likely make the grade in top trim levels. The concept also featured solar eclipse gauges plus a
Bose Studio Surround sound audio system with 5.1-channel decoding and 14 integrated speakers, two of which are mounted inside each front seat. Bluetooth wireless connectivity will also be available.

On another note the introduction of the M35 marks end of the Maxima-based I35 that was introduced in 2001 as a 2002 model, and the death of all front-drive Infinitis. The I35 sold well at its introduction and throughout the years that led up to the new G35, but since that models introduction the I35 has struggled and therefore wont be offered for 2005. There will also be no 2005 version of the current M45, but the automaker will instead sell off the remaining 2004 models in preparation to the new 2006 arriving next spring.

In my opinion the 2006 M will be a breakthrough car for the Japanese brand. Infiniti has never done well in the mid- or large-luxury class, but this new model could rival BMWs 5 with the same success that the G35 has stolen sales, and arguably the performance sedan benchmark from BMWs 3-Series. Of course, my thoughts are pure speculation, but nevertheless based on experience with the Nissan division and its stellar new compact G and FX models. Id keep your eyes on this one, as it could be very special indeed.