As promised, the brand-new 2011 Infiniti M37 has arrived, and it’s loaded for bear. This salacious roadster, based as it is on the recently introduced Essence concept, resembles a sedan in coupe clothing. An edgy front fascia complements elegantly curvaceous flanks that flow into an appealing and somewhat more European rear deck. The M37 is available in two trims, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Base M37, and the all-wheel-drive M37x AWD.

Dedicated to displacing the Audis, Mercedes, BMWs, and, yes, the Lexuses of the world, the 2011 M37 features a standard power moonroof, dual chrome-tipped exhausts, and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels. A couple of inches longer and another couple wider than the soon-to-be-defunct M35, the M37 will offer snappier handling and a more aggressive stance. Additionally, available 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and brakes, and sport steering are also offered to discerning drivers in the appropriately named Sport Package, which ought to mean more than a few trips to town via the long and winding road.

Meanwhile, a sumptuous five-passenger cabin is remade in the image of shogun-esque decadence, where leather, alloys, aluminum, and genuine wood frolic and interact, to ensconce passengers in refinement and luxury, complete with all the modern conveniences and comforts. Dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and ignition, carpeted floor mats, heated, power-adjustable front bucket seats, and steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls are standard equipment, with an available power rear sunshade, suede-like headliner, upgraded leather and trim, and heated steering wheel waiting in the wings.

Let it not be said that Infiniti's latest entry in the luxury sedan market is technologically challenged, with a universal remote garage door opener, single-CD player and six speakers, Bluetooth hands-free communications technology, satellite radio, rearview camera, 9.3GB hard drive, and USB connection all standard. Various options packages offer touch-screen DVD navigation, hard-drive music storage capability, and a 10-speaker Bose 5.1 premium surround sound system as well.

Safety equipment for the M37 includes four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, dual front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, active front headrests, front fog/driving lights, self-leveling xenon HID headlights, and a post-collision safety system. Optional safety features include blind-spot warning and intervention technology and a forward collision warning system.

Finally, the heart and soul of the 2011 M37 is a potent 3.7-liter V6, hence the name. This state-of-the-art powerplant will put out an impressive 330 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque when managed by the standard seven-speed auto-manual transmission. Variable valve timing helps the V6 garner an estimated 18/26 mpg for the RWD Base and 17/24 for the M37x AWD.

Many owners of the 2010 Infiniti M35 complain of less-than-ideal interaction among the various technological components, and some grumble that maintenance and warranty programs aren’t compatible with most of the competition in this niche. The jury’s still out on whether the 2011 M37 addresses these problems, though already a few reviewers mention an over-abundance of gizmos, less-than-plush ride, and somewhat top-heavy stance. Price, however, as well as a fetching appearance and amped-up performance ought to give the M37 its share of attention.