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2003 Infiniti M45 Mid-Size Luxury Sedan
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But, the heart of the M45 is its award-winning 4.5-liter, aluminum intensive V8 engine that makes a buttery smooth 340 horsepower. No matter where you mash the accelerator -- on the highway, in a corner or at a stoplight -- the engine is always anxious to send loads of power instantly to the rear wheels for a thrilling, inspiring jolt.
Equally impressive is the sporty handling afforded by a fully independent suspension adapted from the Q45. While it does allow some body roll, it keeps the 3,850-pound car firmly planted in corners and provides a decent amount of driving feedback without jarring passengers.
There are no complaints about the 5-Speed Automatic transmission, also taken straight from the Q45, that offers perfectly smooth shifts under virtually all conditions.
Inside, M45 comes standard with leather seats, real bird's eye maple trim, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, a terrific Bose stereo and an LCD screen to control all the gadgets.
Some high-tech options include a navigation system, XM or Sirius satellite radio, a larger 7-inch display, and intelligent cruise control that automatically adjusts the M45's speed to keep a set following distance from another vehicle.
There are only two gripes about the interior -- the back seat doesn't have enough leg room, and the computerized control system can be difficult to operate. Commands that should be simple, like adjusting the blower to defrost the windshield, take multiple button pushes and several glances at the LCD screen before they're complete. This isn't the direction technology should take us.
Aside from those quibbles, there's little not to like about the M45. It has plenty of head and hip room, a large and deep trunk, high-quality interior materials, and perfectly located controls for the driver and passengers.
That, coupled with inspiring V8 performance, shows that Infiniti is clearly giving Europe a run for your money.
Pros: It has the amazing V8 engine from Infiniti's expensive Q45, along with a sportier ride and better steering feel in a luxurious package.
Cons: Knee room in the rear seat can be cramped, and computer-based controls are overly complicated to make some simple adjustments.
