It was very difficult to evaluate the AWD system during my week at the wheel. Actually, I can say that the car will shoot forward after a massive amount of wheels spin (traction control deactivated and in snow-mode) and not because of my right foot being planted against the firewall but because the tested M35x featured its standard issue Goodyear Eagle performance summer tires.
Gadgets and complaints
Technology and gadgets sell a car. Even so, there is a line that should not be crossed. On one hand, certain elements like active headlights, intelligent cruise control and navigation are very useful and some could seriously be considered safety features. Others, like the lane-departure warning system, are useless. Every time I stepped into the M, I would shut this system off not to be harassed by the buzzard. Another qualm involved the windshield washer jets which were pathetic! And they were not frozen; the car slept in the garage. At any speed over 80km/h, they would barely spray over the wipers.
To conclude...
The M35, M35x and M45 are very desirable cars. They are solid, rapid and stimulating in both their performance and looks. The only thing you are sure to get should you decide to take an M home is that you will not be like everyone else and be driving a 5-Series BMW. As long as you do not question your decision and wonder why you chose the M over a 5, you will be very happy with your new Infiniti.
The M's price range is from $56,400 to $76,400 for an M45 Sport.
Competitors:
BMW 335xi (coming soon)
Lexus GS350 AWD
Cadillac STS V6 AWD
Audi A6 3.2L Quattro
Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC
photo:Philippe Champoux
 |
| Lane-departure warning system indicator light. |
Gadgets and complaints
Technology and gadgets sell a car. Even so, there is a line that should not be crossed. On one hand, certain elements like active headlights, intelligent cruise control and navigation are very useful and some could seriously be considered safety features. Others, like the lane-departure warning system, are useless. Every time I stepped into the M, I would shut this system off not to be harassed by the buzzard. Another qualm involved the windshield washer jets which were pathetic! And they were not frozen; the car slept in the garage. At any speed over 80km/h, they would barely spray over the wipers.
To conclude...
The M35, M35x and M45 are very desirable cars. They are solid, rapid and stimulating in both their performance and looks. The only thing you are sure to get should you decide to take an M home is that you will not be like everyone else and be driving a 5-Series BMW. As long as you do not question your decision and wonder why you chose the M over a 5, you will be very happy with your new Infiniti.
 |
| Seat back mounted speakers part of optional 308 watt 14-speaker Bose Studio Surround sound system. |
The M's price range is from $56,400 to $76,400 for an M45 Sport.
Competitors:
BMW 335xi (coming soon)
Lexus GS350 AWD
Cadillac STS V6 AWD
Audi A6 3.2L Quattro
Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC
photo:Philippe Champoux
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