Making
hardly a splash in the luxury car segment, but more than worth mentioning, is
the introduction of the brand-new Infiniti M45, intended to fill the space between
the $30K-$40K G35 "near-luxury" sedan and the stately $50K-$60K Q45
sedan. Boasting
the 340-hp 4.5-liter V-8 from the Q surrounded by a smaller, more tightly dimensioned
body, the M45 offers stellar acceleration and nimble handling. And you better
want a V-8 and an automatic transmission, as there are no other powertrain options.
Now,
about that more tightly dimensioned body
if you're not overwhelmed by its
styling, you're not alone. Especially considering the knockout looks of the smaller
G35 sedan and sport coupes, the styling of the milquetoast M is somewhat disappointing.
That said, styling is a subjective thing, and truthfully, with all that power
available to your right foot, below-the-radar styling could be a good thing indeed. Interior
styling is better, with flair and substance akin to that of the larger Q45. A
large LCD screen dominates the prominent center stack, and a Bose audio system
with a 6-disc in-dash CD player provides the entertainment. A technology package
adds surprise-and delight extras like voice-activated HVAC, navigation and audio
controls, as well as laser-guided speed control.
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