Used 2007 INFINITI M

Not long ago if you asked luxury car buyers what names most impressed them, you’d likely find the answer evenly split between American, European and Japanese makes. On the other hand, if you asked a group of hard-core driving enthusiasts what names most impressed them, the Europeans pretty much stole the show. Thanks to cars like Infiniti’s M35 (and its V8-powered stablemate, the M45) that image is changing fast. Not only can these two midsize sedans match their European counterparts in the areas of luxury, power and performance, they also hold exemplary customer satisfaction and long-term repair records, as well as strong long-term resale values.

The M’s driving characteristics vary greatly depending upon the model and trim. The V6-powered M35 has plenty of power to move the car, but seems to require constant throttle input to keep the vehicle at cruising speed. The M45’s torque-happy V8 is a much better match for this car. The five-speed automatic delivers quick, short shifts that, from a standing start, help launch the M with a sense of urgency rarely found in a large sedan.

The Sport model features an active rear suspension set-up that employs electronic actuators to help steer the rear wheels. The result is quite impressive, especially when running through tight S-curves and twisty back roads.

The M’s interior is one of the nicest, most well-thought-out cabins we’ve seen from Infiniti. The front seats are separated by a wide console that joins to a wave-shaped dash. Though comfortable, the space between the console and the front door feels a bit confining. The addition of a 10-way power passenger seat this year assures total comfort for both front-seat occupants. Rear-seat passengers enjoy ample room in all directions, though the sharply tapered rear window may pose a problem for tall passengers. Soft wood treatments and rich interior colors really help the M stand apart from the competition. Electronic gadgetry abounds, including an available power rear seat, rear DVD entertainment system and DVD audio.

The M35 and M45 share the same body panels, with slight differences in trim, wheels and tires for the Sport models. The overall shape is racier than previous M cars, with just a hint of G35 in the car’s profile. The M cars’ front and rear pillars flow seamlessly into the broad fenders to create a substantial look that is both solid and reassuring. Big 18-inch wheels and a low ride height complete the M’s sporty appearance.

DVD Audio System
The amazing sound of the optional Bose DVD audio is simply incredible. You’d have a hard time finding a home system this good.

Rear Active Steer
The Rear Active Steer suspension makes this big sedan handle like a compact sports car.

The M35 comes standard with a 275-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, a five-speed electronic transmission with manual shift mode and rev matching, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel with memory, driver’s information system with seven-inch LCD screen, dual heated power mirrors with passenger-side tilt down, power moonroof, AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD/MP3 changer, intelligent key starting and unlocking, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head-curtain airbags, stability control, traction control, leather seats with 10-way power driver and passenger seats and 18-inch alloy wheels. The M45 adds a 325-horsepower 4.5-liter V8, Adaptive Front lighting with xenon headlamps and heated and cooled front seats.

There are a number of trims for the M35 and M45 that include two Sport models and an all-wheel-drive version (M35 only). Other options include GPS navigation, a Bose Studio Surround system with digital 5.1 decoding and 14 speakers, climate controlled seats, adaptive front headlamps, rear DVD entertainment, power rear seat with separate climate and audio controls, lane departure warning system, Intelligent cruise control and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Both the 3.5-liter V6 and 4.5-liter V8 offer smooth operation, respectable fuel economy and proven longevity. Although the V6 provides good power for daily drives, the engine seems to struggle a bit with the car’s weight. Perhaps it’s just the M’s sporting image that makes us inclined to push for the V8, but it really is the best choice for this type of car.

3.5-liter V6
275 horsepower @ 6200 rpm
268 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/25 (RWD), 17/24 (AWD)

4.5-liter V8
325 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
336 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/23