2011 Infiniti

Following in the footsteps of the Lexus GS and on the heels of Mercedes-Benz's introduction of its eighth-generation E-Class, Infiniti is readying the release of the third-gen, 2011 Infiniti M, a sedan that promises to compare favorably -- at least on paper -- with both.

As with the GS, the new M offers V-6, V-8, and V-6/hybrid power, engine options that stack up nicely against the E's V-6, V-8, and upcoming BlueTEC diesel. The new M, nominally longer and wider than the outgoing model, wears sleeker, more curvaceous sheetmetal draped over bigger wheels, all of which make it look like a slightly bigger G sedan.

2011 Infiniti M56 Interior
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Under hood, the M line features a 3.7-liter 330-horsepower, 270-lb-ft V-6 (M37), a 5.6-liter 420-horse, 417-lb-ft V-8 (M56), and a 3.5-liter V-6 paired with a lithium-ion battery pack (M35 Hybrid). Infiniti says the hybrid, available in spring 2011 as a 2012 model, will be the cleanest and most fuel-efficient vehicle in its history. Both the M37 and M56 come standard with a seven-speed automatic and are available with all-wheel drive as well as a sport package that includes 20-inch alloys, double-piston dampers, four-wheel active steering, four-piston brake calipers, shift paddles, and sport seats/steering wheel/shift knob.

Infiniti M35 Hybrid Rear Three Quarters View
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The 2012 Infiniti M35 Hyb...
  
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In this highly competitive field, technology is key, and here the M does not disappoint. A new four-mode (standard, eco, sport, snow) Infiniti Drive system comes standard on the seven-speed, and Infiniti's Safety Shield adds the world's first blind-spot intervention system (the stability control intervenes to pull the car back into its lane) to lane-departure warning, lane-departure prevention, intelligent cruise control, and distance control assist safety systems. Inside, the M offers Forest A/C, which provides humidity control, a breeze mode that alternates airflow for a more natural feeling, and auto recirculation that detects dust and foul odors and then switches to recirculation mode.