2011 Infiniti M review

[InfinitiDubai]

The 2011 Infiniti M is the brand’s alternative offering against the more established mid-level executive cars on the market such as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.

After selling the previous model since 2003, Infiniti has developed from the tried-and-trusted platform for the new generation car.

One key improvement on the 2011 car is the all-new 5.6-litre V8 which will give the Infiniti M a much needed performance boost as it chases the performance benchmarks laid down by its Germanic trio of rivals. With 402bhp, it’s considerably more powerful than the previous range-topping M, the M45. The same car in the US has 420bhp, but the engine has been remapped for regional fuel quality, hence the small drop in power. Those who aren’t looking for over the top performance might be better off with the entry-level Infiniti M37 which comes with a 328bhp 3.7-litre V6 engine.

The Infiniti M has been styled with a much more aggressive edge than its European counterparts, so be aware that the M is not for shy retiring types.

Helping the driver harness all the available power in the best possible manner, the M features a system called ‘Infiniti Drive’ which has four different settings for the throttle delivery and power mapping. Naturally, the keenest of drivers will select the Sport mode whenever possible.

Luxury has always been an Infiniti’s strong point and the M looks set to deliver on that promise even further than it ever has done before. The cabin has been crafted to put the driver at the centre of the action, and there are high-quality soft-touch materials used throughout to ensure all those on board – it’s a comfortable four-seater – are kept happy. When not enjoying the V8 engine under the sharply styled front end, you can enjoy the sound of the specially-developed Bose stereo system.

There are three versions of the M37 available – Excellence, Luxury and Sport – and two of the M56, Luxury and Sport.

Price (AED): 184,000 – 239,000

Engine: 3.7-litre V6 // 5.6-litre V8

Max power (bhp/rpm): 328/7,000 // 402/6,000

Max torque (Nm/rpm): 363/5,200 // 565/4,400

Transmission: Seven-speed automatic

Driven wheels: Rear wheel drive

Kerb weight: 1,972kg // 1,905kg

SOURCE: http://automiddleeast.com/201-infiniti-m/