2011 INFINITI M37 X AWD Automatic

Model Highlights

The 2011 INFINITI M is now offered in two different models: M37 and M56. A 330-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 engine is included with the M37, while the M56 upgrades to a 420-hp, 5.6-liter direct-injected V8. Both models come with a 7-speed automatic transmission that has downshift rev matching and manual shift control. All-wheel drive is available (with the models then called M37x and M56x), in a road-performance-oriented system that can send up to 50 percent of torque to the front wheels. A system called INFINITI Drive comes in all M models and includes four modes (standard, eco, sport, and snow) to help tailor throttle and transmission response to various road conditions. In Eco mode, the system will actually push back if the vehicle is being driven in a non-efficient manner. The M sedans get a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension setup, bringing responsiveness as well as composure over rough surfaces. Thanks to a series of underbody panels and aerodynamic work, the M sedan has a very low coefficient of drag, which especially helps with highway fuel efficiency. The M37 and M56 have the same interior; there's space for three adults in back, and leather upholstery and wood accents nicely bridge between conservative and sporty. Through several packages and standalone options, the interior can be appointed with several quite different themes. Soft, full-grain leather modeled after premium sofa material is included with the Deluxe Touring Package, which adds leather to the arm rest and center console, while heated seats and ventilated front seats come with the Premium Package. A new instrument-panel design includes electroluminescent gauges and a Plasmacluster air purifier and humidity control help keep the air fresh. The INFINITI M37 and M56 include plenty of conveniences standard, including a rain-sensing wipers, heated mirrors, a USB port and iPod connection, Bluetooth, an Intelligent Key system and a garage-door opener. Many of the more exciting tech features are included in a Technology Package, bringing a Blind Spot Warning system, which will alert the driver if there's a vehicle just beside and behind, while Blind Spot Intervention takes it a step further, selectively braking each wheel to help nudge the driver back into the lane. The M is available with a host of other tech features, including Active Noise Control, which helps quiet cabin noise without heavy noise insulation, and a Forest Air system that further deodorizes the air from the climate-control system. Intelligent Brake Assist with Forward Collision Warning is another system designed to help avoid accidents. Also on rear-wheel drive models, a Sport Package adds 4-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS), sport suspension, upgraded 4-piston brakes and 20-inch wheels. Inside, solid magnesium steering-wheel shift paddles, sport seats and sport trim also come with the package. Several all-new infotainment functions look great on the eight-inch wide display. The navigation system comes with XM NavTraffic, NavWeather and Zagat restaurant ratings. The 10-speaker Bose sound system includes streaming audio capability as well as a 9.4-gigabyte Music Box hard-drive music-storage system.