The Infiniti M is the most expensive and luxurious sedan sold by this luxury division of Nissan. It is available in M35 trim with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine or in M45 trim with a 4.5-liter V-8 engine. The standard drivetrain is rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is an option. Models with AWD are designated by an “x” on the rear decklid while models equipped with the optional Sport package are designated by an “S.”

Here is what changed on the 2008 Infiniti M:
• Revised front and rear styling
• New wheel choices
• Updated interior design
• AWD becomes optional on M45 models
• Upgraded navigation system
• New Lane Departure Prevention technology
• New 9.3GB Music Box hard drive to which favorite music can be uploaded
• Available XM NavTraffic
• New rain-sensing wipers
• Six new colors available

The 2008 Infiniti M is available as the M35 or M45, each identically equipped except the M45 adds a V-8 engine. If AWD is specified, the car’s decklid badge reads M35x or M45x. Models with the Sport package include Rear Active Steer, unique 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, bolstered front seats, and unique interior and exterior trim. At the rear, the decklid badge reads M35S or M45S. The Sport package is not available with AWD.

Options for the Infiniti M models are packaged. The Technology package includes an 8-speaker Bose audio system, a voice-activated navigation system, a rear-view camera, and a Music Box hard drive. The Advanced Technology package adds a 14-speaker Bose 5.1 Studio Surround Sound audio system, Intelligent Cruise Control with Preview Braking, a Lane Departure Prevention System, and a DVD audio/video drive in the center console with rear input jacks. A Mobile Entertainment System is available when the Sport package and Advanced Technology package have been specified. Additionally, on models without a Sport package, there is a Premium package available. It includes the Advanced Technology package and Mobile Entertainment System plus heated power reclining rear seats and a rear climate control system.

The 2008 Infiniti M35 is powered by a 3.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 275 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 268 lb.-ft. of torque at 4800 rpm. The 2008 M45 is powered by a 4.5-liter V-8 engine making 325 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 336 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Both engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission with learning algorithm, manual shift mode, and Downshift Rev Matching. Both engines require premium fuel.

Standard safety features on the 2008 Infiniti M include driver and front passenger airbags, front seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants, a tire pressure monitor, traction control, stability control, brake assist, and brake-activated front pre-crash seatbelts. A rear-view camera, Preview Braking, Intelligent Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Prevention systems are optional.

J.D. Power and Associates says the M35 and M45 compete against the BMW 5 Series, Cadillac STS, Lexus GS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, among others.

Ratings for the 2008 Infiniti M
More Information on the 2008 Infiniti M