2006 Infiniti M45

Power

The "FM" in the platform designation stands for Front Midship, suggesting the placement of the engine, behind the front axle, for better weight distribution. The M45 tips the scales at a tad under two tons (3,995 lbs. for the Sport Sedan), split 54-percent front/46-percent rear. One benefit of the FM platform over the former Q45 chassis is that it's far stiffer with a 40-percent increase in torsional rigidity. The suspension is an independent, double wishbone design up front, with multilink rear. Sport models get tighter tuning as well as Rear Active Steer. Using electronic input on steering angle and vehicle speed, the system adjusts the geometry of the rear suspension to optimize handling.


The combination of a tight chassis, compliant suspension and onboard electronics (Vehicle Dynamic Control, Rear Active Steer) yields a fine road car. Fast and smooth at highway speeds, the M45 is also agile for its size, with exemplary ride quality. An optional Lane Departure System (LDS) helps drowsy or distracted drivers keep it between the lines by audibly alerting them of unintended lane departures. Activating a turn signal notifies the system of an intentional lane change and temporarily disables LDS. A manual override switch will disengage the system as well. The 4.5-liter, 340-hp V-8 carries over from last model year. It is a muscular motor, capable of sub 6-second 0-60 runs and able to turn the quarter mile in the low 14-second range.


Mid-luxury cars are rolling showcases for their makers' wares, and the M45 is a package placed firmly in the first tier of its competitive set. The interior is refined and sophisticated, the driveline smooth and powerful. The M has the requisite room and ride quality for first class transport, perfect when you've got a car full of guests. The suspension is tight enough to entertain, when it's just you and a few well-chosen curves. Boulevard or back roads, the M measures up very well. (www.infiniti.com)