2008 Infiniti M35S
by Jim Prueter -08/2008

Simply Awesome

(This review was originally written in August 2006 and with updates covers model years 2006 through 2008)

When we first drove the 2006 M45 Infiniti in June 2005, we thought if $52,110 for a car ever seemed like a bargain this was it. With elegant, aggressive exterior styling, a luxurious cockpit and advanced technology, it was just about as close to the perfect sedan as you could get.

Now, two years later we are back behind the wheel of a 2008 M35S and remain as inspired. In the interim, the Infiniti M has won numerous automotive awards, including the J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study for midsize premium cars.

Infiniti first offered the M45 in 2003 as a modified version of the Cedric/Gloria model offered in the Japanese market. Here in the States, Infiniti marketed the M45 as a muscle car but it never caught on. Sales amounted to just over 5000 units in its first year and less than half that amount for 2004. Infiniti decided to skip the 2005 model year and concentrate on the new 2006 replacement model we first tested. The new M was completely and entirely unlike the old one.

Compared to the previous single model offering, for 2008 the M35 comes in a choice of two models: the rear-wheel drive base M35 ($43,900) and the all-wheel drive M35XAWD ($45,650). Both are powered by Nissan/Infiniti’s workhorse 3.5-liter, 275-horsepower V-6 engine.

We tested the M35 with the optional Sport Package ($1,650), a sporty rear-wheel-drive version that adds a firmer and upgraded suspension, larger wheels, aluminum accented interior trim in place of the real rosewood, rear active steering, bolstered sport seats, leather-trimmed sport steering wheel and gear shift knob and unique sport styling.

Two M45 models — the M45 ($50,250) and M45XAWD ($52,750) — are identical to the M35 except they are powered by a 325-horsepower 4.5-liter V-8. For most drivers, the V-6 models with a 0-60 mph time less than 7 seconds will provide more than enough power. An additional $7000 for the M45 V-8 models will take a second off the 0-60 time.

In designing the new M, Infiniti styled the exterior to clearly (and smartly) resemble an upgraded version of its smaller sibling the G35, similar to the way the BMW 3-, 5-, 6- and 7-Series models share an unmistakable and instantly identifiable appearance.

M35 and M45 models are identical in exterior appearance except for identifying model badging. Exterior lines are terrific, aggressive yet refined, and far from being outrageous or controversial.

For 2008, the M receives the most changes since it was introduced for 2006. Modifications include a new grille, headlamps, taillamps, front and rear bumpers and chrome accents. So modest are the changes, you almost have to park the ’07 and ’08 models side by side to discern the difference. Six of the eight exterior color choices are also new for 2008.

Slip behind the wheel and you can almost instantly feel your blood pressure drop. All M models come standard with soft leather upholstered seating that is as comfortable as any chair you’re likely to find at a Four Seasons Hotel. Even this tall driver found it easy to find a comfortable position with the 10-way power seat adjustment.

Our tester included the optional Technology Package ($3350) with Infiniti’s superb navigation system with touch-screen command, BoseÒ Studio SurroundÒ with a 9.3-GB Music Box hard drive and compact flash slot for MP3 and WMA files, intelligent cruise control with lane departure warning system, rear view back up monitor, interface system for iPod, and Infiniti Voice Recognition.

New for 2008 are standard XM Satellite, plus new gauge and instrument panel lighting — gorgeous white and violet lights replace the hard-on-the-eyes orange lights from the previous generation.

Heated and cooled front seats are now standard on all M models. Rear seats with 37-inches of legroom are more than adequate for most adults, especially with the front seat backs curved for additional knee room. And for 2008 there’s even an optional power reclining and heated rear seat in the Premium Package ($9650).

Inside, the dashboard rolls out toward you like an impending wave, finished in genuine Brazilian rosewood with a hand-rubbed, matte appearance. Sport models come with aluminum interior trim, rosewood optional.

There’s plenty of high-tech gadgetry available to please the techno-geeks and yet, unlike those in other sport-luxury sedans, they are thankfully and surprisingly easy to use. Mid-dash is a seven-inch LCD readout screen (eight inches with the optional navigation system). A large knob surrounded by buttons sits below the screen for adjusting most settings. Redundant controls are located on the steering wheel, and a voice-recognition feature for spoken commands operates climate control, audio and navigation systems. We still prefer touch-screen controls similar to those found in a Cadillac.

Also standard on all M models is keyless access and ignition. An intelligent key that need only be in your pocket or purse allows you to automatically unlock the doors with a pull on the handle. The starter is a push button located on the dash. The key can be programmed for various functions like opening the windows and setting seat and mirror positions. Sounds gimmicky until you have it, and then the old way seems obsolete.

Our M35 was fun to drive with exhilarating acceleration, stable handling and an exceptionally comfortable ride quality. The five-speed automatic transmission works well with quick, smooth shifts, however a six-speed automatic would be a welcome addition for increased performance.

Safety features include dual-stage front airbags, front-seat side-impact and curtain side-impact airbags. The rearview monitor is a camera located above the license plate. When putting the vehicle in reverse, the main LCD screen displays objects or children are behind the vehicle that otherwise might be hidden from view. Additionally, as the steering wheel turns, the system overlays color-keyed marks on the screen to show where the vehicle is headed. It’s an amazing system that works well and is worth the extra cost.

If you’re considering a BMW 5 Series, Acura RL, Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS or others in this model segment, we recommend spending some time behind the wheel of the Infiniti M before you sign a purchase agreement. We continually rate the Infiniti M models at the top of this segment.