Infiniti M Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.84/5 Average
11 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

When it comes to buying a luxury sedan, most people usually stick with one of the ubiquitous models offered by traditional European luxury brands. But if you're someone who likes to look beyond the obvious choices, you'd be wise to add the Infiniti M to your short list.

That's because this midsize luxury sedan has matched, and in some ways bested, those traditional sport sedans from BMW and Mercedes-Benz at their own game. With strong engines, an attractive passenger cabin lined with top-quality materials, and a features list full of the latest cutting-edge gadgets, the M gives you a lot of bang for your buck.

Note that for 2014 this model's name was changed to Infiniti Q70. It is covered in a separate review.

Used Infiniti M Models
The last, fourth-generation Infiniti M was produced from 2011 through 2013. Initially, there were two versions of this midsize luxury sedan -- the M37 with a 3.7-liter, 330-horsepower V6 and the M56 with a 5.6-liter, 420-hp V8. The M35h arrived for 2012, sporting a hybrid powertrain with a combined 360 hp from its gas-fueled 3.5-liter V6 and electric motor. Rear-wheel drive was standard, but models with an "x" indicate the presence of all-wheel drive. The sole transmission was a seven-speed automatic with four different shift modes: Normal, Sport, Snow or Eco. There were no notable changes throughout this generation's run.

All M models came standard with automatic xenon lights, a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, leather upholstery, heated power seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and an iPod interface. The M56 added rear parking sensors, a navigation system, ventilated front seats and an upgraded audio system with digital music storage, but these were optional on the M37 and M35h.

Option highlights for all M sedans included a power rear sunshade, an air purifier, upgraded leather upholstery, a 16-speaker Bose audio system, adaptive cruise control and numerous electronic accident avoidance systems.

While the Infiniti M boasts a handsome exterior, it gets even better when you hop inside. Stylish design accented with supple leather and genuine wood set the mood. Seating is comfortable up front, and the rear seat offers ample room. The electronics interface is one of the most user-friendly of any luxury car.

In reviews, we found that the M37 and the M56 both drive smaller than they look, with sharp reflexes through corners and quick acceleration. The optional Sport package took it a step further with 20-inch wheels, summer tires, a sport-tuned suspension, four-wheel active steering (rear-drive models only) and sport seats. Unfortunately, the firmer ride associated with this package is just too rough for a segment noted for its refinement and comfort. Also, the transmission can occasionally suffer from inconsistent shift timing. The hybrid is simply impressive, as it matches the M56's incredible acceleration while beating the M37's combined fuel economy by 8 mpg.

Overall, however, the M still lacks the utter refinement that makes rivals from BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz so compelling. But for many, the more attractive pricing and typically much lower ownership cost of a used M37 or M56 will make this Infiniti a compelling choice. Furthermore, the M35h's incredible combination of power and fuel economy is impossible to ignore, and as such, eco-minded luxury buyers would be keen to put it at the top of their shopping list.

The previous, third-generation M was produced from 2006-'10 in M35 and M45 models. Compared to its successor, it was more angular in appearance and thus not as visually interesting inside and out. Obviously, there are countless mechanical differences from one generation to the next, but many of the same attributes that make the most recent M appealing also apply to this generation, with strong performance, excellent handling and high feature content being among them.

Originally, the M35's 3.5-liter V6 produced 280 hp and was mated to a five-speed automatic. For 2009, power output was increased to 303 hp and a new seven-speed automatic was introduced for rear-wheel-drive models only. The all-wheel-drive M35x always featured the five-speed.

The M45 featured a 4.5-liter V8 listed as 335 hp in its first year, but 325 hp thereafter due to a change in the way horsepower was measured (actual output did not change). A five-speed automatic was the only transmission available and all-wheel drive was not available prior to '08.

Regardless of which engine you chose, this Infiniti M provided plenty of power. Braking was also impressive, and a firmly damped suspension delivered finely controlled balance through corners. The trade-off was a suspension that tended to transmit road irregularities into the cabin, and at highway speeds, a noticeable amount of noise. While these flaws certainly didn't make the M uncomfortable, it was somewhat less peaceful than other performance luxury cruisers.

We had similar mixed feelings about the interior. It was attractive, amply equipped and well built, with firm seats that were highly adjustable, comfortable and heavily bolstered. However, the competition in this segment was pretty intense and the M wasn't quite as elegant and thoughtfully engineered as some of its rivals. The quality of materials was a bit uneven, and we found that the layout of the center stack controls wasn't as clean and intuitive as it could've been.

In total, this generation of Infiniti M was very much like the one that came after, albeit with less style and performance. It was never quite up to the level of its European competitors, but then it had a strong value proposition that carried over to the used market. Should you be interested in finding one, keep in mind that changes were relatively minor, with 2008 being the only year of significant non-engine alterations. Styling was tweaked, the navigation system was upgraded and new high-tech features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning were added.

The second-generation Infiniti M was sold only as the M45 for 2003 and '04 -- there was no 2005 model -- and was basically a Japanese-market Nissan Cedric luxury sedan brought over to fill the gap between Infiniti's near-luxury G35 and the larger, technology-laden Q45. Engineered for the narrow streets of Japan, the M45's cabin proved too narrow to hold corn-fed Americans comfortably, and the backseat was scant on legroom for a car of its size. Even worse, the M's exterior design was bland to a fault.

However, it was fast. The original M45 was available only with a 340-hp V8 and rear-wheel drive. Combined with big 18-inch wheels and performance tires, the M45 delivered respectable handling. Equally important, the original M45 was equipped with nearly the same number of safety features as the succeeding model.

Cheaply priced and available with most of the luxury features found on the larger Q45, first-generation M45s generally represent strong used-car values in terms of feature content and performance. For shoppers who like the car's combination of stealthy speed and luxury, and don't need a lot in the way of interior room, the first-generation Infiniti M45 could be a good match.

The original M was one of Infiniti's two original models. Dubbed M30 and sold from 1990-'92, it was powered by a V6 and available in coupe and convertible body styles.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 11.00
  • fast and furious - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    Bought my 2013 M37 sport 5 months ago and have no regrets. The M37 has been recommended by Consumer Reports for the past 3 years as their top luxury car. I looked at the E350, Lexus GS sport and the BMW 5 series but bought the M37 based on its performance (0-60 in 5 sec), beauty (looks like a Maserati-Jag hybrid w/muscle) and solid reliability (due to its low repair cost its recommended as a used car). My car is quick and snarls (I love it) when I speed up to pass someone and I have caught a number of BMW boys giving my M37S a second glance..... You gotta check this car out. You will love it.

  • CUDOS to INFINITI - they got it right! - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    After almost 3 years of ownership I am very pleased with my Infiniti M37 Sport (now called Q70). Its beautiful, Ive had NO mechanical problems and its a blast to drive. CONSUMER REPORTS was right when they recommended it over the MB E350 and the BMW 5s for 4 straight years (2011-2015). Unlike other car magazines that publish reviews based on the advertising they receive from car manufacturers CONSUMER REPORTS bases their evaluation on 50 objective tests. The M37 is so dependable that its recommended as a used luxury car by CR. Its a perfect blend of reliability, performance and luxury. Before I bought the M37 I drove both the Mercedes E350 2 door Sport and BMW 5 series. I was not impressed. Both offered cachet names but not much else for the high price. The BMW was not the BMW of my fathers generation. The handling was lackluster and the interior was high grade plastic and vinyl (seats). The MB E350 sport was small,had a VERY rough ride and the seats were VERY uncomfortable. Like the BMW the interior was a mixture of plastic and vinyl (leatherette?). IMHO these cars are unacceptable for the $60,00.00 list price. By contrast the M37 Sport was exactly the car that CONSUMER REPORT predicted it would be. The Infiniti was VERY, VERY AGILE and handled much better than the cachet names. The seats were not vinyl but were beautifully double stitched leather. Also the ride was surprisingly better than the more expensive Mercedes E350 sport. Infiniti got it right when they designed this car. Im very pleased with the M37. Ive gotten many complements on my car. It does evoke an unsolicited "WOW" response from many people and I do catch a number of TESLA owners gazing at my car. Ive been down to the dealership earlier this year and saw the new version of the M37. Its apparently the same car with new body work. A very handsome design. Conclusion: dont place your trust solely in car magazine/car website reviews. I have purchased many cars over the past 30 years based my decisions on CRs recommendations and have never been disappointed ...... my advise do a lot of reading and do some driving

  • Best Car Ever - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    My wife is driving a G37 which we both love. When my jealousy finally got to be too much I scrapped my SUV for a 2013 M37. My alternatives were the Lexus GS350 and the Audi A6. These are both comfortable and excellent to drive. What pushed the M37 to the top is the comfort, interior room and nearly perfect ergonomics in terms of controls, etc. The car is a blast to drive, has more comfort and sophistication than the G37, but is smoother and quieter on the inside. Ive had Lexus, Mercedes and BMWs, but I would easily trade any of them for my M37.

  • A wonderful ride and excellent buying experience - 2012 Infiniti M
    By -

    The cabin is absolutely luxurious, with a very sporty feel. All of the materials feel wonderful (I got the Premium and Deluxe Touring packages, which add a little to the experience). It is whisper quiet, has LOADS of power, and an amazing array of gizmos. In searching, I ended up visiting dealerships in two different states, and they were both really great. I bought it at Cochran Infiniti in Pittsburgh, and they include a pick-up service where theyll drop off a loaner Infiniti and take your car to service (even though we live 80 miles away!).

  • 370Z Zedan - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    I literally found this car by accident. Before this car I was a proud owner of a M35h which I absolutely loved but it just was sporty enough. Before the hybrid I owned a FX35 which I ran to almost 200k and it was perfect but I wanted something newer but didnt think I could find anything better than the FX. The M Hybrid was amazing. Fast, Fuel sipping, super safe and super tech but it was more a luxury cruiser than the sports sedan I wanted. I searched the net just to set what was out there and found my clean fully loaded M37XS optioned all the way up with the aero kit. The car is absolutely perfect. Its sporty fun sounds amazing, gathers many looks and just what I expect from Infiniti. This is my 5th Infiniti and 10 Nissan product overall and all have been great to me giving many fun trouble-free miles (majority of my Nissan ran to or past 200k before I trade up with the exception of my M35h which was shy of 100k). I hope this will be just as reliable as my previous Nissan/Infinitis.

  • A great car, but somewhat bipolar - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    I frequently love my M37, when the ECU isnt fighting itself it has excellent grunt and acceleration. However, you never know what car you are going to get when you crank it; sometimes it is torquey head snapping acceleration and other times it is a high revving whiner with artificial turbo lag that you have to kick in the rear end to get going and then takes off like a rocketship. I feel this is all due to the software that controls the car and it just isnt right for reliable, spirited driving. I do hope there will be a software upgrade that makes this car perform in a more consistent manner.

  • Infiniti M37 - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    I recently purchased the M37 after 10 years of Cadillac ownership, my last one the CTS and this car is awesome. I wanted luxury and sporty at the same time and the M is all that and more, I have power when I need it, and economy at other times. This car turns heads. Nothing to envy against other luxury brands.

  • The M37xS puts the Sport in Luxury Sport Sedan - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    I recently upgraded to an Obsideon Black 2013 M37xS from a Malbec Black 2011 G37xS Sedan coming off of an 18 month lease. I also considered an M56xS, Q50 S AWD, FX37, Audi A6, Jaguar XF 3.0 AWD, and Chrysler 300 SRT8. The M won me over with its combination of athleticism, size, and class. I have the Sport and Premium Packages, making this my perfect blend of luxury and sport. Id consider myself an enthusiast-level driver and appreciate the go-fast bits. While the G37 may be more sports car-like, the M37 has plenty of grunt and feels next-level upscale, matching an A6, 5 Series, E Class, etc. This car has seen extensive snow, having easily traversed at least 7 inches worth multiple times.

  • Great Car - 2012 Infiniti M
    By -

    I just traded a Lexus 460L for the M37h which is the hybrid version. I have seen some reviews for the hybrid and some are better than others. In general, i really like this car and I am fairly picky about cars. I have only had it a few days, but from what I can tell, it is a big upgrade from a performance and technology standpoint from my 2007 Lexus. Nothing wrong with the Lexus and it was a great car, but the Infinity has a much tighter feel, better performance, better infotainment and better sound system. Not to mention better performance if you want it or better gas mileage if you want it.

  • Our Fourth Infiniti - 2013 Infiniti M
    By -

    While we came to own our fourth Infiniti literally by accident, after a snow plow truck/plow totaled our 14 Q50, it has been love at first sight. We rescued our Obsidian Black, 2013 M37xS from three feet of snow. We drove the 100 miles home in complete confidence, yet another snowstorm, in the sure footed AWD traction. While we dislike the low profile tires, noisy for old people (didnt see those in the three feet of snow) the acceleration, handling and sheer pleasure of driving more than makes up for its lack of quiet. We are in month 29 of a 39 month lease and will likely get another Infiniti but unsure of which model. The downsides of this uniquely sporty model M are: mileage/gas costs, rims that every curb attacks, complicated navigation system, no 360 camera like the 14 Q50 had.

Infiniti M Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area