2006 Infiniti M45 Road Test

Infiniti's M45 is a heavy-footed, ready to romp sports sedan that offers both technology and luxury at a price point in the $40,000-$50,000 (US) range. It comes in four forms with our choice being the less expensive six-cylinder M35 version. Also available are an all wheel drive model, the V8 M45 with its 335 horsepower, and a sport model with Rear Active Steering.

There is a lot to like about the Infiniti, but it does have a sturdy ride thanks to the wide tires and the noise that they generate. In addition, the dash mounted controls are difficult to reach and require considerable practice to master. Other than that just the tightness of the back seat that makes carrying five passengers difficult and the need for premium fuel to achieve 20 mpg are all that might from being unsurpassed as a luxury sports sedan

What must be pointed out is that the Infiniti backup camera is the best ever. It is clear, gives you lines so that you can see the width of the M when backing up, and uses the large dash mounted monitor. If you live in a crowded place or have children this feature is a must. Also available is a GPS with a bird's eye view map, Bluetooth hands-free system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and heated and cooled seats. All of these work well and make the Infiniti a joy to frolic with regardless of the weather or traffic

Competition most directly comes from the Acura RL which has the Infiniti covered when it comes time for sophisticated electronics, pricing, and interior room. However, the Acura does not offer the handling or performance of the Infiniti. Another competitor might be the Chrysler 300 Hemi that is more basic in terms of doodads and luxury, but offers as much performance and room for many thousands less. BMW 5 Series, Mercedes, Jaguar S, and Lexus GS are also worth noting with the BMW being the most competitive. But, as the Infiniti M, its styling is an acquired taste.

Mom's view: This is an executive vehicle and quite capable of handling any situation with its ready to romp engine, smooth five speed transmission, and abundance of features. It is pleasant to drive, but rear visibility is limited and the M45 is not that nimble when parking it tight. Safetywise you get ABS, vented disc brakes, an electronic braking assistance program, stability control, front and side airbags and side curtain airbags, active head restraints in front, a tire pressure monitor, and even a lane departure warning system. What really separates the Infiniti M from the competition besides a well regarded dealer network and its pricing, is how comfortable it is. The seats are firm, but not Mercedes hard, and the feel of the interior fabrics, woods, and leathers, reassure you that this is a luxury vehicle. You can easily get in and out as the doors open wide and the entry is well lighted. The is a little dark for my tastes, but it could come back into fashion. The dash is very difficult to master with the clear seven-inch LCD screen taking up the center and a series of operation related push buttons surrounding a large control know below it. The result is not good. I could barely reach some of the functions and those placed on the far right of the control unit required me to stretch far more than should be necessary. Of course, that leaves the center console available for two good sixed cupholders and a nicely designed, two level storage bin. The Infiniti system is far more usualbe than the competiton, but the placement is not friendly to the short of limb.