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Infiniti M - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Infiniti M ranks 2 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 55 published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti M, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Sold as the V6-powered M35 and the V8-powered M45, Infiniti’s top-of-the-line sedan is a high-performance machine.   It doesn’t sell as well as some better-known rivals, but some in the automotive press aren’t sure why.  It’s a well-rounded sport sedan, though it may ride too firm for some.

Car and Driver sums up the typical opinion of the automotive press perfectly when it says, “Infiniti's M sedans offer excellent value, space, luxury, and performance--it's too bad more folks don't notice."

The M35 and M45 sedan are not often mentioned in the same breath as the Lexus GS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan or BMW 5-Series.  But many reviewers think they should be.  Infiniti’s flagship sedan offers a stylish cabin with an appealing modern design theme and exceptionally comfortable seats, and the ability to corner with some of the best sport sedans on the market.   It can’t match the raw engine power of a Jaguar XF, but reviewers say its handling balance rivals anything else in the class – which may be more important than horsepower to those looking to have some fun on a routine drive.

Its sporty character, though, might be too much for some.  Those looking for a comfortable commuter might be better suited by a Lexus GS or Acura RL.  The M doesn’t insulate its driver from the road like those cars – it engages the driver in the drive, much like the BMW.  M sedans equipped with the Sport package are particularly stiff – stiff enough to turn off some reviewers who like the sporty nature of the standard car.

The M’s exterior styling strikes some as a little bland.  It was first offered in the 2005 model year, and has changed little since then.  It is due for a complete redesign for the 2011 model year, so those who can afford to wait might find a better deal on the 2010 M once the 2011 has begun rolling into dealerships.

The M comes as either the M35, with a six-cylinder engine or the M45, with an eight-cylinder engine. Both models are available in a base rear-wheel drive, a Sport edition with a firmer, sport-tuned suspension and a revised front fascia, and an X edition with 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

M Performance - 9.2 (Excellent)

The 2010 Infiniti M is geared toward performance driving, with one of the stiffest suspensions in the large luxury class.  The automotive press tends to love cars that put up great numbers in track testing, and the M fits the bill – but reviewer praise often comes with the caution that the M’s ride will be too firm for some buyers.  Those looking for a sporty luxury car might find it in Infiniti’s top-of-the-line sedan.  Those looking for a relaxed commuter might want to look elsewhere. Read More

M Exterior - 8.6 (Very Good)

Few reviews of the Infiniti M comment on its exterior styling.  The car’s shape is less bold than the more aggressive looks of some rivals.  But the M doesn’t look entirely conservative -- short overhangs give it a subtly sporty stance. And there is a certain appeal to a fine sport sedan that doesn’t scream out its intentions with angular bodywork. Read More

M Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2010 Infiniti M may be in its last year before a major redesign, but it still features one of the most contemporary cabin designs in the large luxury class.  Reviewers are impressed with the seat comfort at every position, and say the choice of materials and the build quality is top-notch.  There is some disagreement as to the usability of the cabin’s electronics -- the lack of a single user interface to control climate and entertainment functions, like BMW’s iDrive, is a positive to some and a drawback to others.    Read More

M Safety - NA

The federal government has never published crash test results for the Infiniti M -- not an unusual occurrence with cars at this price point.  The insurance industry has not specifically tested the 2010 edition, but gave the mechanically-similar 2009 M top scores in both frontal- and side-impact crash tests.  The M comes with several advanced safety features, but some rivals have more to offer. Read More

M Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)

The 2010 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). Infiniti covers all of its cars with a four-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. Roadside assistance is offered throughout the warranty period. Read More