Infiniti M45
We tested the V8-powered machine while cruising Michigan’s highways, acceleration sweetly smooth, coupled with an exceptionally comfortable ride. If first impressions are lasting, Infiniti’s M45 has definite staying power.
ike the phrase that Henry Wadsworth Longfellow gave birth to—“In character, in manner, in style, in all things, the supreme excellence is simplicity”—Infiniti’s M45 delivers grace, elegance and uncomplicated beauty on roads often cluttered with an array of over zealous exterior accenting. We appreciate this car's clean and fluid fashion.
Inside, the same grace flows, blended with ultra-luxe touches like supple leather and genuine aluminum trim. The driver’s cockpit, comfortable and convenient, features 10-way seat adjustments, backlit gauge cluster, easy-to-reach NAV and Bose audio system. Before you take off, program your phone to sync with the car’s hands-free Bluetooth system, a must-have for commuters.
Also on deck is Infiniti’s Intelligent Key—push-button start—as well as a RearView monitor for back-up safety.
Driving the M45 is no less pleasant than admiring it sans motion. Powered by a 3.5L V6 with 275 hp or the titanium-valved 4.5L V8 boasting 325 hp, the vehicle scoots. (We tested the V8, which was quick in response, embodying what we’ve dubbed “sophisticated fun.”) Harnessing engine power is a 5-speed auto transmission with manual shift mode for sporty driving.
Bmw 545i
It’s a rare thing to be able to put your foot down in the BMW 545i. You need plenty of space, a low gear so you’re not advancing at absurd speed when you hear the V8 issue its distant, creamy, hammering wail, and preferably no witnesses, either human or electronic.
This car is not supercar-fast, but it’s more than quick enough for today’s conditions, in the UK at least. The 4.4-litre variable-valve-timed V8 yields 333bhp – 47bhp more than the outgoing model – and 332lbs ft or torque at 3700rpm, which is sufficient to thrust the manual 545i to 60mph in 5.8sec and on to a governed 155mph.
Equally heart warming is the fuel consumption, which on one 320-mile motorway run exceeded 28mpg. And this was in the six-speed automatic version. Admittedly there were no full-throttle moments, but it demonstrates what’s possible if you can resist.
Active Steering is a curious thing. I’ve sampled it several times now, and notice it less on each occasion – which is a compliment. But on a sinuous road tackled at varying speeds, the combination of this and Dynamic Drive make it marginally harder to commit the car completely in a bend, even if there’s absolutely nothing wrong with its grip and agility. The subtle inconsistency of the steering and the near-absence of roll – always a good measure of recklessness – make it harder to know how close you are getting to the edge.
This car is not supercar-fast, but it’s more than quick enough for today’s conditions, in the UK at least. The 4.4-litre variable-valve-timed V8 yields 333bhp – 47bhp more than the outgoing model – and 332lbs ft or torque at 3700rpm, which is sufficient to thrust the manual 545i to 60mph in 5.8sec and on to a governed 155mph.Equally heart warming is the fuel consumption, which on one 320-mile motorway run exceeded 28mpg. And this was in the six-speed automatic version. Admittedly there were no full-throttle moments, but it demonstrates what’s possible if you can resist.
Active Steering is a curious thing. I’ve sampled it several times now, and notice it less on each occasion – which is a compliment. But on a sinuous road tackled at varying speeds, the combination of this and Dynamic Drive make it marginally harder to commit the car completely in a bend, even if there’s absolutely nothing wrong with its grip and agility. The subtle inconsistency of the steering and the near-absence of roll – always a good measure of recklessness – make it harder to know how close you are getting to the edge.
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