The original M45 sedan was a compromise between the expensive Q45 flagship offered by Infiniti, and the entry-level sport sedan, the G35. The original M45 vehicles were not very popular with the public due to a lack of style and high costs. The original M45 design only lasted two years due to bad sales. The people wanted a luxury vehicle that could really perform and the redesign in 2006 was meant to resolve these old issues.
Indeed, the M45 is very much improved over the previous model. The new M45 is built around the rear drive front mid-ship engine. This places the engine slightly behind the front wheels, making the car a bit more balance and improving stability and control.
The redesigned interior offers more room that the old M45 as well as a plethora of luxury features. Underneath the hood, a powerful 4.5-liter V-8 makes the M45 roar to life. Noise inside the cabin can sometimes be a bit overwhelming, especially when revving the engine at a high RPM.
However, the power provided by the engine is exciting. Explosive acceleration is the M45 calling card. Low-end torque is there as well, but it settles down at a high RPM into a smooth, coasting ride.
The M45 isn’t just for gear heads; it is in all respects a luxury vehicle. The standard features compliment the big engine. Firm seats keep you comfortable even when cruising at full speed.
All of this adds up to the M45 being a must drive for anyone interested in a mid-level luxury sedan.
The Range
Body Style: Sedan
Engines: 4.5-liter V-8
Transmissions: Five-speed automatic with auto-manual capability
Models: Infiniti M45, Sport
What's New
This is a completely redesigned M45 model, a new generation for the refined driver.
Exterior
The exterior of the Infiniti M45 screams luxury sedan. Its soft curves are not unlike a BMW; 18-inch wheels are standard, while the Sport package boasts 19-inch cast-alloy wheels. The standard fare on the base model includes heated exterior mirrors. The big exterior changes come with the Sport package. Standards on the Sport package include rear active steering, sport tuned suspension system, and HID headlamps. The HID headlamps are an option on the Base.
Interior
The interior of the M45 is well equipped for those looking for comfort and style. The seating is covered with ultra-soft and supple leather. The seats adjust just about any way you want. The seats are also bolstered down, preventing rocking when going through fast turns and during acceleration.
Unfortunately, the instrument panel and dashboard feel a bit cluttered; controls are sometimes hard too. Some require you take your eyes off the road, which can be dangerous when you’re gunning that V-8.
Standard features on the interior of the base model include: leather upholstery, 10-way adjustable driver seat, driver seat memory, one-touch power windows, dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and wood trim. The sport model also receives aluminum interior trim, and climate controlled sport seating. Optional equipment includes a DVD-based navigation system, voice recognition, and laser guided cruise control that adjusts your speed according to traffic. A 14-speaker Bose surround sound system is also available with 5.1 channel decoding.
Performance & Handling
The Infiniti M45 comes standard with a 4.5-liter V-8 engine that produces a whopping 335 horsepower with 340 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The low-end torque really growls, setting you off in a flash, while the top rpm purrs gently. Don’t worry about going too fast; the braking system is finely tuned and will stop you on a dime. The suspension gives gently in corners, allowing you to go at it full speed ahead. Unfortunately, this sport-tuned suspension does not always translate well to inner city driving. Going over potholes may feel a bit jerky.
Safety
The M45 has a lot of standard safety equipment, something shared across the new Infiniti models. Included standard are anti-lock brakes, vented disc brakes, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, BrakeAssist stability control system, front-seat side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtains, and active head restraints to prevent whiplash in the front. A lane departure warning system is also available that alerts the driver if they happen to drift between lanes.
EPA Fuel Economy
Infiniti M45: 16/21 mpg city/highway
Infiniti M45 Sport: 16/21 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Mind-blowing V-8 power
- Smooth handling
- Luxury standard features
- Sport options
- Transmission
You Won't Like
- Too noisy
- Controls are cluttered and complicated
Sum Up
A vehicle with a mind blowing and impressive engine.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Infinity Q45
- Infinity G35