Acceleration

M35	AWD M35x	M45	Class Average
7	7	8	7

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	4.6

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	6.3

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

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	7.4

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	7.3

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	5.2

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	4.2

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	6.2

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	68.4

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score		56
Average Score		68
High Score		78