G35 + M = FM2: infiniti's latest sport sedan rides on the next-generation rear-drive platform offering better ride and handling and improved safety

Automotive Industries, March, 2005 by John Peter

The world got its first look at the 2006 Infiniti M45 at last year's New York Auto Show in April 2004. The vehicle that took the stand alongside the 2005 Q45 wasn't much different from the pre-production prototypes we drove recently in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The concept promised an abundance of advanced technology like active rear steer and a lane departure warning system, just a few of the many that have found their way into the production vehicle. The most notable changes from concept to production are more roadworthy eight-spoke alloy wheels replacing the concept's five-spoke alloys and a set of standard side mirrors in place of the rearview cameras mounted on the concept's A-pillars.

The production line-up also adds a 3.5L V-6 to the mix along with an all-wheel-drive option (V-6 only) picked up from the FX35.

Coinciding with the launch of the concept car was the launch of a new M website that allowed potential customers to build their own virtual cars from a large list of options, including color choices. After two months, the data was used to develop several trim levels and price points that were then presented to the same list of potential customers. The final option and trim packages were designed using this information.

"This is the first time we've done a program like this, in this much detail," says Randy Fior, regional product manager Product Planning. "We even have zip codes, so I can tell you that the people in New York like black cars with black interiors and a sport package, versus someone in Phoenix who likes a white car with a light-colored interior."

The 2006 M is available in five models: M35, M35 Sport, M35x AWD, M45 and M45 Sport with prices ranging from $39,900 MSRP for the M35 to $49,550 for the M45 Sport.

Three trim packages are available for both M35 and M45 from the base package called "Journey" to the mid-level "Technology" and top-level "Premium."

The base vehicles, with 18/in. wheels and tires, ride on an independent double wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar and coil springs and an independent multi-link rear suspension with stabilizer bar and coil springs. Ten hydraulic suspension mounts (five in the front, five in the rear) improve handling and NVH. Sport models get a sport-tuned suspension, featuring new shock absorber valve structure and an active rear steering system along with 19-in. wheels and tires.

The Rear Active Steer system uses an electronically controlled actuator to control the toe angle of the rear wheals by moving both lower links. Entering a corner, the rear toe angle will turn a maximum one degree out of phase with the front wheels to improve turn-in response. When exiting the corner, the rear wheels turn in phase with the front wheels improving yaw damping.

The M35x borrows its ATTESA ET-S all-wheel-drive system from the FX Crossover with a software update to meet the requirements of the four-door sedan. The system can split torque from 50:50, front to rear to as much as 0:100 depending on the traction needs.

The M35 picks up the 3.5L V-6 from the G35. The all-aluminum V-6 makes 280 hp at 6,200 rpm and 270 lb.ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm.

The M45 is powered by a version of the 4.5L DOHC V-8 found in the Q45 and FX45. The 4-valve, aluminum-alloy block and head motor makes 335 hp at 6,400 rpm and 340 lb.ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm and has refined airflow to reduce noise and maximize the engine sound. A two-position variable intake manifold, Continuously Variable Valve Timing on the intake camshaft and unique tuning maximize low-end torque. Both motors have symmetrical quad-tipped dual exhaust and use the same 5-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control In the manual mode, the transmission features downshift rev matching and will automatically bump the throttle during downshifts to keep the revs up in the most optimum range.

The M's unique exterior and spacious interior were designed at the Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, Japan. The exterior is most noted for its long-sweeping roofline and short deck creating a car with a CD of 2.8 (2.7 with rear spoiler) and opening up a spacious interior that's larger than the Q45. The exterior has a strong family resemblance with a G35-inspired catamaran hood and front fender.

Infiniti says that the lush leather and Brazillian rosewood (brushed aluminum) interior with its piano keyboard-inspired instrument panel will be the inspiration for future interiors. On top of the large center stack is a control knob, that can be used to scroll through the vehicles functions, displayed on the center screen. Thankfully, the HVAC and audio systems have redundant controls for those who don't want to play with the knob. Interior features include a voiced recognition system, Birdview DVD navigation system, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, tire pressure monitoring, an available rearview monitor and a Bose 5.1 surround-sound audio system, available on the Technology, package. Infiniti also offers factory-installed satellite radio.

The M comes standard with Intelligent Key with push-button ignition. This feature, which is becoming standard luxury car fare, allows the driver to open a locked door by touching the handle and starting the vehicle with a push button, without the need for a key, as long as the keyless fob is in a pocket or purse. The M also has a small slot on the dash to store the fob.