2009 Infiniti M
- 2008 Infiniti M
- Used Infiniti M
Based on analysis of 53 M reviews and test drives.
Infiniti M - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Infiniti M ranks 2 out of 12 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 53 published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti M, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2009 Infiniti M is a credible alternative to more well-known luxury sedans from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Available with V6 or V8 power, it holds its own against high-performance cars from more famous marques, and is quickly growing in prestige.
The Infiniti M doesn't win much press attentionin the hyper-competitive luxury car set, where every vehicle does most things very well. But it should. It offers driving dynamics that nearly equal those of performance-oriented luxury cars like the Jaguar XF, and its cabin offers a modern take on old luxury that might meet the expectations of both Lexus and BMW fans.
The M's exterior styling doesn't impress many reviewers, and its fuel economy is disappointing -- particularly the V6 version of the car, which doesn't offer much of a fuel-economy boost over the more spirited V8 edition.
Tuned for sporty driving, the M's suspension and handling may be too firm for those who just want a comfortable commuter. The Lexus GS offers a softer, more compliant ride. For those who sometimes need a cushioned commuter but sometimes want an aggressive handler, Audi's A6 offers a driver adjustable suspension that might make it a better choice.
For 2009, V6 models receive a bump up to 303 horsepower, and the available automatic transmission is now a seven-speed. Infiniti claims that new "self-healing paint" is scratch-resistant, though few in the press seem to have tested that claim.
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.
- "This impressive sedan is a credible competitor to such class bellwethers as the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Generously equipped in standard form, with convincing performance and available all-wheel drive, the Ms are strong alternatives to these and other similarly priced premium-midsize rivals." -- Consumer Guide
- "The Infiniti is smooth riding, luxurious and ready for the technology of the future." -- Washington Times
- "Much like an Olympic decathlete, the 2009 Infiniti M35 attempts to master several disciplines all at once. And like said decathlete, this mastery involves a subtle mix of athleticism and finesse." -- Edmunds
- "Infiniti's mid-size sedan, the M, has been around for quite some time, but it's still one of our favorite luxury sport sedans. We lived with an M45 for a full year, and not once did it require repairs. Even those in the office who didn't initially understand the M45's place in the automotive world came away from the test in awe of how good this Japanese BMW-fighter really is." -- Automobile Magazine
- "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." -- Forbes
- "The M is a no-excuses player in the sports/luxury sedan field, and its price advantage is icing on the cake." -- Chicago Sun-Times
M Performance - 9.2 (Excellent)
The 2009 Infiniti M is geared toward performance driving with a firm suspension and tight steering. Its sporty character wins raves from the automotive press, but might not fit the needs of some buyers. Edmunds says the tuning is "not objectionable," but "those interested in maximizing their serenity may want to consider a competitor like the Lexus GS 350 or Cadillac STS that offer a more isolated experience." If this car appeals to you because of its ability to have a little fun on a routine drive, keep in mind that you have two engines to choose from. Read More
M Exterior - 8.6 (Very Good)
The M's styling is a bit plain compared to more expressive peers, but there is nothing objectionable about the look. Many reviewers say it easily gets lost in a crowd of similar-looking luxury cars. But that's true, in part, because so many luxury cars are conservatively fetching...and some may appreciate a fine performance car that doesn't look like one. Read More
M Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)
The passenger cabin of the 2009 Infiniti M, according to Automobile Magazine, is "on par with Mercedes and superior to Cadillac." It distinguishes itself from both with a modern aesthetic that emphasizes smooth surfaces and cockpit technology. Worlds away from the gathered leather and wood surfaces of traditional European luxury car, the M's ambience is high-tech and glossy. Its electronics are heavy on buttons and knobs, but many testers prefer that to complicated interfaces like BMW's iDrive that try to control all equipment through one device. Read More
M Safety - 8.1 (Very Good)
The 2009 Infiniti M does well in insurance industry crash tests, but the federal government has never tested the car. It's full suite of safety equipment is expected at this price point. Infiniti's lane departure system goes further than those of many competitors. Read More
M Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2009 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 is covered by a four-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. Several systems are under separate, longer warranties. Infiniti's customer service plan goes the extra mile with some ownership benefits. Read More
