Editor's note: This story is part of the WardsAuto digital archive, which may include content that was first published in print, or in different web layouts.
CHULA VISTA, CA – Infiniti’s new ’11 M sedan presents a great mix of ridiculous power, astonishing fuel economy and parental-like controls sure to please, and perhaps perplex, buyers.
The M cranks out a whopping 420 hp and 417 lb.-ft. (565 Nm) of torque from its new 5.6L V-8. But thanks to direct-injection technology and other fuel-sipping features, we were able to average an astonishing 28.2 mpg (8.3 L/100 km) on one test route here.
While some may think it sacrilege for a sport sedan, Infiniti has introduced an Eco mode and optional Eco pedal on the new M.
Much like mom would do, both Eco technologies remind drivers, “Geez, Louise, ease off the gas.”
Other technologies, many of which can be turned off, suggest drivers “Pay attention, for Pete’s sake!”
Distance-control assist slows the vehicle when cameras and sensors detect the M getting too close to another car for comfort.
The M also can steer and apply the brakes when a driver drifts out of his lane (lane-departure prevention) or tries to move into a lane occupied by another vehicle (blind-spot intervention).
The ’11 Infiniti M, on sale March 18 in the U.S., offers Nissan’s 3.7L V-6 from the current G lineup and the new 5.6L V-8 that replaces the 4.5L V-8 in the soon-to-depart M45.
