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2006 Infiniti M45 Road Test

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Khatir Soltani
Perhaps what spoils you most about Infiniti M ownership is a recognition "key" that alerts the car to your presence and unlocks the door and does a variety of other tasks prior to you pushing on the start pushing to ignite the engine. I found it best to push the start button once to enliven the accessory mode and get the memory seat and other functions into
position. A few seconds later I hit the start button and a very gruff rumble from the potent V8 awakens to your call. The pre-programming can even be set for the mirrors and windows and it quickly becomes second nature and I never have to I fumble through my handbag looking for the key.

Infiniti's rear is its weak spot. The trunk lid does not open nearly enough when the remote is used and you have to put your hand under the always dirty rear bumper to gain access. The trunk is also not that large with just 15 cubic feet of space or 11 if you opt for the full-sized spare tire. There is a ski pass through. Even the exterior rear view of the Infiniti is way too busy. Finally, if you order the rear seat entertainment center and the rear monitor is down you simply cannot see out the rearview mirror.

Would I buy the Infiniti M45? No. The M35 is less expensive to buy and maintain, has a similar nice interior and its 280 horsepower is enough for me. Regardless, the powerful 335 horses, superior brakes, and sumptuous interior make this Infiniti compelling for those who enjoy driving in the fast lane.

Dad's view: We waited a long time to test the Infiniti M45 and it was worthwhile. This is a tightly bound, athletic sedan capable of getting to 60 mph in less than six seconds, giving 20 mpg, and doing so in a captivating cabin. Riding on an extended version of the terrific G platform, the M sedan can easily change its disposition from friendly chat to shouting match just be depressing the accelerator. The 5-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode slightly tames the 335 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque and you can reach 100 mph in a quarter mile. The engine maxs out at 6800 rpm and it does not take long to get there. The transmisison even blips the throttle when you manually downshift. Very impressive.

Suspension is anchored by a double-wishbone front and multilink rear set-up and the steering is modulated well, except at low speeds where it has a ponderous feel. I was always surprised at how difficult it was to park compared to its nimble sister, the G35. The ride reminded me far more of the FX SUVs. If you order the Sport Package you get a firmer
suspension, a rear steering system that emphasises turn-in when cornering and improves exit speeds, and 19-inch cast-alloy wheels, climate-controlled firmer seats and aluminum interior trim. The ride is definitely sportier, but we question the need for such a package on a vehicle that weighs over two tons.

Standard features abound with leather upholstery, a 10-way adjustable memory capable driver's seat, one-touch up-and-down power windows, dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and heated outside mirrors. If you go with the Sport option Infiniti throws in rear active steering, sport suspension, upgraded wheels, adaptive HID headlamps, aluminum interior trim and heated and cooled sport seats. Some popular ptions include a DVD-based navigation system, voice recognition technology and laser-based intelligent cruise control that maintains a reported safe distance from other vehicles, and audio enhancements
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada