Infiniti M 2010 / 2011 – the detail

The Infinti M. Will launch in the UK in September 2010

Infiniti – Nissan’s luxury car division – has been busy rolling out its product throughout the UK and Europe in 2009. But there has been one model missing – the Infiniti M. The old Infiniti M didn’t make it to the UK – nor did any other Infiniti for that matter – but the New Infiniti M will.

First teased back in July, the Infiniti M had a virtual reveal at Pebble Beach in August. No real car, just a virtual Infiniti M was on offer. But we did get actual pictures of the Infiniti M in October when Nissan revealed that a hybrid M was in development. But now we get the proper detail for the UK and Europe.

Unfortunately we’re not going to get the range-topping 5.6 litre V8, having to make do with the 3.7 litre petrol plus a diesel. Not that there’s anything wrong with the 3.7 litre V6. It offers 316bhp, a seven-speed auto ‘box and paddle shifters. And there is no doubt that the Infiniti M Diesel will sell a lot better than a range-topping 5.6 litre V8 at the moment. So it’s sensible, if a little disappointing.

The Infiniti M is aimed at the Mercedes E Class and the BMW 5 Series. Nissan has gone to great lengths to offer great build quality and quality materials and with a longer wheelbase than most of the competition there should be plenty of room for five adults.

There are loads of gizmos on offer, including Blinds Spot Intervention (which will actively redirect the car away from a potential side-swipe impact); Active Noise Control (which acoustically modifies noise for a quieter interior); Forest Air (a Climate Control system that pumps ‘Forest Fragrances’ round the cabin) and Safety Shield which offers a whole range of electronics to avoid collisions.

The Infinit M is a very competent, able and well-built car. It offers serious competition for Lexus, but I’m not sure how many XF, E Class or 5 Series buyers will be tempted by the somewhat anodyne qualities of the M. They’ll be looking for more involvement and a ‘Drive’.

Still, good car the Infiniti M. As we reported before there will also be an Infiniti M35 Hybrid sometime next year and who knows? Maybe they’ll bring over the V8.

More detail in the 2010 / 2011 Infiniti M Press Release.

By Cars UK