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2012 Infiniti M35h Review

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Mike Goetz
Infiniti hybrid is artful and gusty
The only glitch in the hybrid powertrain, from my perspective, is how the vehicle downshifts just before it “auto stops” the engine at intersections, and in traffic. I thought it could be just a tad smoother. And sometimes at startup, I thought it took a moment or two longer to do some software math, before determining the launch sequence — but only a few times.

The M35h’s fuel economy number that really impresses is highway efficiency — 6.1L/100km or 46 mpg! The city and combined numbers aren’t too shabby either — 7.5L/100km (38 mpg) and 6.9L/100km (41 mpg), respectively.

Like all hybrids, M35h features a regenerative charging system, which adds some resistance when you get off the throttle, and a different feel to the braking, but neither impacts the great driving experience. The new steering system also seems fine, and the overall sportiness of the chassis is perfectly intact in this hybrid model.

2012 Infiniti M35h front 3/4 view
The M35h’s fuel economy number that really impresses is highway efficiency — 6.1L/100km or 46 mpg! (Photo: Mike Goetz/Auto123.com)

Lap of luxury
We’re going to finish up by rattling off just some of the M35h’s technological features and creature comforts, because otherwise we’d be here all week.
  • Audible Pedestrian Warning System (for that all-too-quiet EV mode)
  • Active Noise Control System
  • Lane departure prevention system
  • Blind spot warning and intervention
  • 16-speaker Bose 5.1 surround sound system with navigation and rearview camera
  • Japanese Ash wood trim with “real” silver powder
  • Heated and cooled seats
  • Forest Air System, with Breeze Mode and air purifying systems
  • Selectable “Eco” or “Normal” or “Sport” powertrain modes
  • Ash tray!
Conclusion
Everybody, and I mean everybody that I showed this car to, loved it — my mother, my kids, my great aunt, my neighbours, strangers…

And this was before they knew it was a hybrid, a specific type of hybrid that makes it more of a blast to drive, and incredibly fuel efficient for its size. If you’re in the market for a $60K-plus sport-luxury sedan, you need to check it out.
2012 Infiniti M 35h
infiniti m 2012
2012 Infiniti M 35h
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Mike Goetz
Mike Goetz
Automotive expert