By KBB.com Editors
KBB Expert Rating:
As the flagship sedan from Nissan's prestige division, the 2013 Infiniti M delivers A-list levels of luxury, style and performance, with an accent on performance. On the value front, the Infiniti M offers a host of upscale features as standard issue along with more standard horsepower than its BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS and Audi A6 competitors. Its ride quality may not exceed theirs, but that's a trade-off Infiniti accepted to ensure a dynamic driving experience. The 2013 Infiniti M lineup features an enticing array of models and drivetrains to choose from, including the value-packed M37, the 420-horsepower M56, a fuel-efficient hybrid version, and an available performance-oriented all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
If you're willing to have your luxury mid-size sedan give up some ride smoothness in return for sharp-reacting handling, you might find the Infiniti M's particular blend of performance, luxury and value tough to beat.
Despite its elegant design, the Infiniti M does not command the same status as its BMW and Audi rivals. And though class-leading horsepower is nice, if you value class-leading fuel efficiency even more, you will be looking elsewhere.
What's New for 2013
For 2013, the Infiniti M line gets only a few feature and package tweaks. Auto-dimming outside mirrors and an auto-close trunk lid are now standard, there's a new Performance Tire and Wheel package, and the Sport package can now be ordered on AWD models as well as the rear-wheel drivers (RWD).
Driving Impressions The 2013 M is truly a blast on the road. With three eager powertrains, a comfortable interior and an impressive array of new and innovative technology, there's precious little to...
complain about – as long as you understand the car's sporting bias means ride smoothness is not up to pure-luxury-car standards. Technologies like 4Wheel Active Steer and downshift rev-matching enhance the car's fun-to-drive quotient, while lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring subtly help keep you safe. And the interior's a pretty nice place to spend time – the seats are supportive, the dash intuitive and the M's iPod connectivity and searchability are among the best. The M Hybrid, which Infiniti claims is the world's fastest full-hybrid, delivers on its promise of combining the fuel efficiency of a hybrid with the engaging driving dynamics of a performance sedan.ACTIVE NOISE CONTROL
Every Infiniti M features Active Noise Control to minimize aural unpleasantries caused by the engine. A ceiling-mounted microphone detects low-frequency noise and the system then generates similar-but-out-of-phase frequencies to cancel each other out.
4WHEEL ACTIVE STEER
For increased agility and control at any speed, the 2013 Infiniti M employs an optional 4Wheel Active Steer feature that seamlessly adjusts the steering angle of all four wheels according to speed and driver input.
Interior
Outfitted in rich, warm leather and high-quality soft-touch materials, the 2013 Infiniti M delivers an inviting in-cabin experience. The M's spacious greenhouse comfortably accommodates its occupants, who enjoy 10-way power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather-trimmed seating surfaces and generous rear-seat legroom. The available Deluxe Touring Package adds a 16-speaker Bose audio system, a suede-like headliner and striking White Ash wood trim sprinkled with flecks of real silver. The only sour note is the all-in-one control knob's inconvenient placement high on the center stack where you can't rest your arm while operating it.
Exterior
Combining a muscular stance and a sleek profile, the 2013 Infiniti M is among the most stylish cars in its class. Its modern look is complemented by xenon headlights for both the low and high beams along with LED taillights. All Infiniti M models ride on standard 18-inch split 5-spoke wheels, while the Sport Package (now available on both RWD and AWD models) offers fender-filling 20-inch wheels. That Sport Package also adds a touch of aggression to the M's exterior with smoked surrounds for the grille and headlights, unique front end, larger brakes and performance summer tires.
The 2013 Infiniti M37 and Hybrid models come standard with Drive Mode Selector (Standard, Eco, Sport and Snow modes), leather seating, heated power front seats, a 6-speaker audio system with USB connectivity, Bluetooth, active noise control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a 7-inch color display for audio/climate/vehicle settings, and keyless entry and start. Moving up to the M56 adds a 5.6-liter V8, cooled front seats, a Bose 10-speaker sound system, a navigation system with SiriusXM NavTraffic and NavWeather, a 9.3GB hard drive for music storage and Bluetooth streaming audio. Safety equipment on every Infiniti M includes active head restraints and six airbags.
Any Infiniti M can be outfitted to your liking, thanks to available Premium, Deluxe Touring and Technology Packages. Creature comforts include a 16-speaker Bose Studio Surround System, power rear sunshade, silver-metallic wood trim, and a "Forest Air" system that provides a clean breeze through the cabin. The Technology Package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and prevention, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring and adaptive front lighting. The Sport Package (for all but the Hybrid) adds 20-inch wheels with summer tires, a sport-tuned suspension, 4-wheel active steering, sport brakes, magnesium paddle shifters, sport seats and special exterior trim.
The 2013 Infiniti M comes with a choice of three engines: a 330-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 (the same engine found in the G37), a 420-horsepower 5.6-liter V8, or a gas/electric hybrid powerplant using a 3.5-liter V6 and electric motor for a total of 360 horsepower. All these engines mate to a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode that, on the non-hybrid models, includes a race-inspired downshift rev-matching feature. Unfortunately, all that great horsepower comes at a cost; EPA fuel economy ratings are only average for the category, and our real-world driving experience confirms both the M37 and M56 have a healthy appetite for fuel. Adding AWD to the M knocks off another mpg or two.
3.7-liter V6
330 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm
270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26 mpg (RWD), 17/24 mpg (AWD)
5.6-liter V8
420 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
417 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/25 mpg (RWD), 16/23 mpg (AWD)
3.5-liter V6 + electric motor
Hybrid system net horsepower: 360
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 27/32 mpg
The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2013 Infiniti M line starts at $49,095 for a rear-drive M37 and $61,495 for a rear-drive M56. The all-wheel-drive system (AWD) adds about $2500. At the top, a loaded AWD M56 can exceed $74,000. The M Hybrid starts at $55,095 and tops out just under $69,000. The 2013 Infiniti M competes on price with the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class but the Infiniti offers more standard features. A base Audi A6 offers less standard equipment but it undercuts the M's starting price by nearly $6,000. Be sure to check KBB.com's Fair Purchase Price for what consumers are actually paying for Infiniti Ms in your area. In terms of resale value, the M is expected to see above-average residuals over time, not quite as high as those offered by BMW or Lexus, but on par with Mercedes-Benz and Audi.
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Infiniti M vehicles for sale near you.
Based on 25 Ratings for the 2011 - 2013 models.
Review this carBy JohnnyD (NC) on Sunday, November 25, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 16,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "high quality, reliability, outstanding interior"
Cons: "Hard navigation system to master."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I have owned this car since August 2011 and now have over 16000 miles on it. It has never needed anything but regular oil changes. The ride quality, acceleration, and quality are comparable to my last car a Lexus LS-460. I got the Deluxe Touring Package which gives you the outstanding Analine Leather interior and rear sunshade. If you can get a car with it, do it. I know it comes in the Lexus also, as an option package. It's worth the expense. The only negative about the car is the Infiniti navigation system which I find hard to master. Other than that problem, the car is great and even if I had more money I wouldn't buy anything else. I considered the BMW 535 and Lexus GS-350. I didn't like the front grill on the Lexus or the unreliability reputation of the BMW. Lexus and Infiniti give you a Lexus or Infiniti loaner car when in for service while BMW uses Enterprise rental cars. You will also find the Lexus and Infiniti dealerships and service superior to most other car dealerships."
10 people out of 11 found this review helpful
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By M56S Owner (GA) on Saturday, October 20, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,500
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "power, features and luxury for the price, handling"
Cons: "no remote start"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Best car I've ever owned. Tons of power. Fantastic handling. Incredible styling inside and out. Have had the car for 2 months and not one problem. Engine and transmission is extremely quiet and incredibly smooth."
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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By Sweets (TX) on Sunday, October 14, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 700
overall rating 1 of 10rating detailsPros: "Great look"
Cons: "Transmission problems"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1
"Before I could get the temporary tags removed from my brand new car, I began to have problems with it. The indicator light signaled Engine problems on the day I picked up the tags. I was told by the associate that often the engine signaled a loosely replaced gas cap. Even the manual gave the same information. According to the manual, the Engine light would go out after a few days once I tightened the gas cap again which was not loose. I have been told that there is a problem with the transmission switch. Moreover, the service department has had my car for over a week. Because I had not heard from the service department for a week, I initiated a call to the department only to be told that the part has not been sent in and it will take another 2 weeks or so before the part would come in and the car repaired. In the meantime, I am driving a rental that has an engine oil light on and an expired inspection sticker. This is my first and probably last infinity."
4 people out of 5 found this review helpful
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By J (NC) on Friday, October 05, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 32,000
overall rating 6 of 10rating detailsPros: "beautiful styling, fast when punched"
Cons: "horrific transmission in traffic, fading brakes"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 2
"Transmission problems for two years, software issue for the 7 speed, per Infiniti, with no fix in sight. Now brake fading/creeping issues."
4 people out of 5 found this review helpful
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By Rob (TX) on Saturday, September 29, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 5,000
overall rating 2 of 10rating detailsPros: "Plenty of power, great styling in and out"
Cons: "Horrible road. Taking a bath to get rid of it."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1
"On paper and in the flesh, this M56 is a beautiful car. Gorgeous styling inside and out, inviting cabin, and loads of power and torque. But get this beast on anything other that a glass-smooth pavement and the road noise is just awful. I spent the extra few thousand for the Deluxe Touring Package, which bought me the Bose sound system. What a waste of money. At 55 mph, the volume on this multi-hundred watt system has to be at 3/4 full power to drown out the road noise. Rear seat passengers get a full blast of road noise from the rear wheel arches just behind them. At 70 mph on the freeway, it's hard to hold a conversation with the front seat passenger. Avoid this car."
5 people out of 6 found this review helpful
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By dotman13 (GA) on Wednesday, August 08, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,400
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Great price, features and quality"
Cons: "gas mileage a little on the lower side"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Great car for the price and the features offered. I have the Technology Package, which has everything that you can imagine on a car, it nearly drives itself. Very smooth ride and very sharp and sporty looking. GREAT combination of luxury ride and sports car ride. Interior well appointed and has a luxurious look and feel."
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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