2003 Infiniti M45: Road Test
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2003 Infiniti M45 ▼
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- MSRP: $42,300
- Invoice: $38,272
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Our road test for the 2003 Infiniti M45 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Infiniti M45 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Infiniti M45, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Infiniti M45 help you decide if a 2003 Infiniti M45 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
Test M45 did 6.6 sec 0-60 mph, but that laudable time offset by frustration of inordinately slow downshifts when asked to deliver passing response. Intelligent cruise control works as advertised, but useful only in certain traffic conditions and takes time to earn drivers' confidence.
FUEL ECONOMY
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
Averaged 16.3-17.6 mpg in mixed city/highway test driving. Requires premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Takes a sporty tack, with fine stability on wavy surfaces but with more impact harshness than most luxury cars on small, sharp ridges.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Natural, direct steering feel. Confident rear-drive balance and good grip in fast corners, but too large to really feel nimble. Strong brakes with firm, easily modulated pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Tires thump over bumps more than expected at these prices. Wind and coarse-surface road noise also higher than in most luxury cars. Rich, muted engine whine under full throttle.
CONTROLS
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6.6 |
Asymmetric layout of similar-looking audio and climate controls an annoying diversion--and both systems are partially governed via dashboard screen, which complicates even simple adjustments. Same screen used for optional navigation system, which confuses things further. Luminescent gauges easy to read. Interior materials upscale, but far from opulent.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Firm, comfortable seats. Plenty of head and leg room. Premium Package's fan-cooled seats a boon in hot weather. Visibility slightly hindered to rear corners by roof pillars, but view aft better than average due to rear headrests that lower into seatback.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Good head room, but toe clearance and leg room limited for a luxury-class car. Seat comfortable. Easy entry/exit, though windows rattle slightly in routine door closings.
CARGO ROOM
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Trunk volume barely class-competitive. Lid hinges dip into load area. And rear seatback doesn't fold. Interior storage space unexceptional.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.7 |
Its interior doesn't impress for room or design convenience, and the M45's chassis dynamics don't match the best luxury-performance sedans. But this transplanted Japanese sedan has a sporty spirit and delivers BMW 540i V8 power at an Acura RL V6 price.
Total Score
| M45 w/ Premium Pkg. | M45 w/Technology Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 60 | 58 | 60.5 |
Total Score: 59
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