2008 Infiniti M: Road Test
Archived Review
2008 Infiniti M ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $43,350 -$52,200
- Invoice: $39,837 -$47,951
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Infiniti M
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2008 Infiniti M includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Infiniti M from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Infiniti M, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Infiniti M help you decide if a 2008 Infiniti M is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 6.9 |
Rear-drive M35 scoots nicely, with plentiful around-town zip and highway power. AWD adds 180 lb but feels little different. M35 is so adept that the M45's extra thrust is not a compelling draw. That said, M45 is fast by any measure; a test example ran from 0-60 mph in just 6.0 seconds. We have not yet tested an AWD M45x. With either engine, the transmission sometimes pauses indecisively on downshifts. Its manual shift gate helps, though.
FUEL ECONOMY
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, rear-drive M35s averaged 16.4 mpg. M35x models averaged 17.4-21.2 mpg with mostly highway use. Test M45s averaged 16.0 mpg in city/highway driving, 18.8-19.1 in mostly highway use. Infiniti recommends premium-grade gas for M35, requires it for M45.
RIDE QUALITY
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 8 | 6.5 |
All Ms have a firm, composed ride. Base M35 and M45 absorb bumps best. M35x has tauter suspension settings, resulting in a slightly less compliant ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 7.1 |
Confident and balanced with minimal cornering lean. Steering feel is sporty and precise, but at times it can seem heavy and slightly unnatural in turns. AWD models have rear-drive manners on dry surfaces, with automatic transition to AWD upon wheelslip. A 50/50 front/rear power split can be locked in via the snow-mode button on the center console. Braking is strong on all.
QUIETNESS
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Fine suppression of wind and engine noise. AWD and M45 thump more loudly over cracks and bumps.
CONTROLS
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Bright and clear gauges. Most controls are logically arrayed on a keyboard-like shelf, but numerous buttons demand study. Some are a reach away, and sunshine can neutralize indicator lights. Closer to the driver are traditional audio knobs and buttons. The navigation system is exceptionally easy to operate. Voice recognition responds accurately to command keywords. Lane departure beeps a lane-change warning unless turn signal is used. It's a gimmicky feature to us, but fortunately, it can be shut off.
DETAILS
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
Cabin has warm, upscale ambiance. Trim consists of satin-finish wood or real metal, precise-movement switchgear, and ample soft-touch surfaces.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Generous room. Supportive seats astutely bolstered. The power tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps fine-tune driver position. Thick pillars partially obscure over-the-shoulder visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
The seat is firm and nicely contoured, but the cushion is not long enough for optimal thigh support. Fine knee clearance, but foot space is tight with front seat lowered. A middle rider will have to straddle the M's tall driveline hump.
CARGO ROOM
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Good trunk volume, and lid hinges don't intrude, but short aperture means drawer-like access. Interior storage is OK.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 9 | 7 | 6.4 |
This impressive sedan is a credible competitor to such class bellwethers as the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Generously equipped in standard form, with convincing performance and available all-wheel drive, the Ms are Recommended alternatives to these and other premium midsize rivals.
Total Score
| M35 | AWD M35x | M45 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 74 | 74 | 74 | 69.2 |
Total Score: 74
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Buying a
Used Car?
Used Car?
Start your research
with a CARFAX® Report
with a CARFAX® Report
No VIN Available?
Order a CARFAX®
Report Package
Report Package
