2008 Infiniti M45 AWD

The 2008 Infiniti M45 AWD is new this year. It is exactly like the Base in terms of features, but adds the powerful electronic full-time automatic all-wheel drive system, complete with a center limited slip differential. On dry roads, it defaults to rear-wheel drive, but adjusts torque according to the road conditions. It works well with the 4.5-liter, 325-hp DOHC V8 and 5-speed shiftable automatic, though the 16/20 mpg is slightly lower than in the Base.

The luxury mid-sized sedan receives the same exterior and interior styling updates as the Base. An optional Lane Departure Prevention System actively controls the car when it senses the driver has ignored a warning alarm about lane drifting. Other standard safety features include traction and stability control, dual front-side and side curtain airbags, and 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution. Updated foglights, automatic headlights, xenon lamps, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power tilt side mirrors, a tire monitor, first aid kit, and 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires are also standard. A rearview camera is optional.  

Like the Base, the 2008 M35 AWD has a fully array of power features, which include remote start, 10-way power front seats with driver's memory settings, and a power tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Upscale comfort is provided by leather upholstery, heated and cooled seats, and dual-zone climate control. Other equipment include a sunroof, 6-CD player with MP3 playback, satellite radio, Bluetooth, a trip computer with a 7-inch screen, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, and intermittent wipers. Revised wood and leather trim decorate the interior.

The old Sport trim is now the Sport Package, offering up a stiffer suspension, active rear steering, a sport steering wheel and shifter, aluminum pedals, and a new rear spoiler. The roomy interior seats four, with the option to add reclining rear seats and a DVD player. Most owners agree the highlight is the easy-to-use 3D navigation system with Real Time Traffic.