2008 Infiniti M [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 50 M reviews and test drives.
Infiniti M Ranks #4 in Luxury Large Cars
Overall Score - 8.9 (Very Good)
Based on U.S. News editors' analysis of 50 leading automotive reviews and test drives, the 2008 Infiniti M ranks #4 of 12 in Luxury Large Cars.
The M delivers a capable ride, powerful performance and advanced technology features that make it a very competitive luxury sedan. If you're in the market for a luxury car, you should also consider the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class.
The 2008 Infiniti M is praised by critics for its strong performance, upscale interior and long list of standard features that make it very competitive with the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class, Acura RL and Lexus GS. Forbes reports, "We can attest to its great driving dynamics and almost-excellent design elements; the question now is, will you take the time to check it out as well? We think you should." With a lower starting sticker price, the M may be the best deal in its class. The Chicago Sun-Times says "The M is a no-excuses player in the sports/luxury sedan field, and its price advantage is icing on the cake."
One drawback to the M, however, is its surprisingly poor fuel economy. Large luxury sedans are not known for their fuel-efficiency, but the MPG rating of the M places it near the bottom of its class.
IntelliChoice gives the 2008 M35 a value rating of "Excellent" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership as compared to other vehicles in its class. IntelliChoice recognized the M with a best overall value award, the highest retained value award, lowest repair costs and a SmartChoice Ownership award.
The M comes as either the M35, with a six-cylinder engine or the M45, with an eight-cylinder engine. The M35 comes in thee available trim levels, including the base rear-wheel drive, the M35 Sport with added sport tuned suspension and trim options and the M35x with all-wheel drive. The M45 comes in three trims levels: the base rear-wheel drive, the M45 Sport and the new M45x with standard all-wheel drive.
M Performance - 9.1 (Excellent)
The M earns high marks as a driver's car, providing more than enough power and great handling. continue
M Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)
Most reviewers agree that the M's exterior styling is attractive. However, some criticize its design, calling it ordinary or mundane, compared to class rivals. continue
M Interior - 7.8 (Good)
The 2008 Infiniti M receives praise for a luxurious interior that Automobile Magazine claims is "on par with Mercedes and superior to Cadillac." The Chicago Sun-Times adds that the "lush-life interior," is "generally hush-quiet." continue
M Safety - 6.7 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Infiniti M comes with a hefty list of standard safety features and advanced safety system options. The 2008 Infiniti M has not been crash tested by the insurance industry, but the 2007 M performed well. continue
M Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Infiniti M reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The M comes with a four-year/60,000-mile basic coverage warranty. continue
