Inspired by the Essence concept the automaker revealed at the 2009 Geneva International Motor Show, the five-seat M is Infiniti’s flagship sport sedan. The M is available in two iterations. The M37 uses a 3.7-liter V-6 while the M56 has a 5.6-liter V-8. The M56 competes with the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Jaguar XF. The M37 is covered separately in the Cars.com Research section.
New for 2012 There are no significant changes for 2012.
Exterior The M’s styling combines the taller presence of the previous-generation M with some of the curves seen on the current G37 sedan. A large front grille sits low on the M57’s face, recalling the grille on the Essence. In back, the tail rises slightly at its center. Exterior features include:
Eighteen-inch alloy wheels
Dual exhaust pipes
Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
Power-folding side mirrors
Available 20-inch wheels
Available darker grille finish, darker headlights and unique bumpers
Interior The M’s dash falls away from the driver, resulting in a spacious, open cabin. A wide panel with controls for the navigation and climate systems sits closer compared with the prior M, while the transmission retains its short leather-wrapped gearshift. Upscale available materials include a suede-like headliner, faux-leather-stitched dashboard panels and wood trim with interlaced silver-powdered accents. Optional semi-aniline leather feels similar to a leather sofa, Infiniti says. Interior features include:
CD stereo
USB/iPod connectivity
Power heated and cooled front seats
Leather upholstery
Moonroof
Backup camera
Navigation system
Available Bose surround-sound stereo
Under the Hood The M56’s 5.6-liter V-8 makes 420 horsepower and 417 pounds-feet of torque; it pairs with a seven-speed automatic transmission. A knob controller, dubbed Infiniti Drive, allows drivers to program drivetrain settings, including accelerator sensitivity and transmission shift points, to Standard, Eco, Sport or Snow modes. Eco mode provides accelerator resistance to the driver’s right foot if it detects inefficient driving habits; it also includes a yellow-to-green gauge indicator to show how efficiently you’re driving. Mechanical features include:
Available sport-tuned suspension
Available four-wheel steering
Available 14-inch front and 13.8-inch rear disc brakes
Safety Blind spot and lane departure warning systems are optional on the 2012 M56. So is Infiniti’s Lane Departure Prevention system, which uses light braking to keep the M56 from drifting into an unintended lane. Safety features include:
Standard six airbags
Standard active front head restraints
Standard antilock brakes
Standard traction control
Standard electronic stability system
Optional Blind Spot Intervention system, similar to Lane Departure Prevention
