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Interior Features

Infiniti likens the shape of the M dashboard to an elongated and flattened letter M. It's unusual, but in a positive manner. The switches and knobs for climate controls, sound system and other functions are all placed on an almost horizontal surface in the center of the dash, below a large LCD screen and dual vents. They're all easy to see and operate. This big multi-function control knob in the center is simpler and more intuitive than the systems in some of the other cars in this class, such as the BMW 5 Series, thanks to Infiniti's clear layout and markings.

New for 2008 are Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges surrounded by gear-like rings.

Infiniti, like an increasing number of automakers, has gone quaint on us. Harking back to olden days, one has to push a starter button to fire up the engine. That's possible because the M comes with an intelligent key that does not have to be inserted in the ignition. The car senses its presence in your pocket or purse and automatically unlocks the doors for you. We're not sure we like this technology, though many owners do. On the upside, the key can also be programmed to deliver various functions such as pre-opening windows and setting seat and mirror positions. On the downside, we've heard lots of reports of tow trucks responding to calls from owners of all brands of cars with intelligent key problems.

The standard M35 and M45 have real rosewood trim with a subdued semi-gloss finish. Sport models have genuine aluminum trim in place of the wood, although the rosewood is available as an option. The aluminum trim has a new ribbed texture for 2008, while the rosewood is a bit more brown and less rosy. Chrome trim rings around buttons and gauges subtly enhance the luxury look.

The driver's seat proved comfortable, especially with the Sport Package, which adds larger side bolsters. It's easy to find an ideal position with the 10-way power adjustments. The ventilated seats warm or cool the derriere with a fan. Sport Package M's also feature unique stitching on the steering wheel and shift knob.

There's lots of technology available here and it works well. The Bose sound systems are exceptionally good; audiophiles will find them worth the price. New for 2008 are a 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for digital music storage and playback, and XM NavTraffic real-time traffic reporting.

The navigation system also impressed us. We like using the birds-eye view, which presents the map in a 3D format that creates a sense of distance and perspective. The voice activation system works well, too, if not quite as well as the system in the Acura RL.

Rear-seat passengers will be happiest with the Premium Package, which adds heated, reclining back seats. The controls are located inside the rear-seat center armrest. The package also includes a DVD system with an LCD that folds out of the ceiling and is controlled with a remote. Separate rear-seat climate control is included with this package. Even without the Premium Package, however, the rear seats offer plenty of leg and headroom.

Trunk capacity is 15 cubic feet, about average for this size car, and the opening is on the small side. The trunk lid has scissor type hinges, which, unlike gooseneck hinges, don't intrude into the usable space. A pass-through opening is provided for carrying skis and other long items.

Overall, we found the living quarters in the M very pleasant. People who bought the 2006 model agreed. They loved its interior and features, according to a study by J.D. Power and Associates, the market-research firm. In Power's Automotive Performance Execution and Layout (APEAL) study, the 2006 M cars ranked first in the mid-size premium segment, ahead of the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series and Lexus GS.