Archive for the ‘Family Car’ Category

Why are we so determined to put a label on everything? Must all aspects of our existence be neatly wrapped in an easily identifiable package? If that is the way it must be the answer to whether the 2011 Infiniti M37 is a sports car or family car is neither. What this well-designed machine is and what its makers intended the car to be is a midsize luxury sedan. Just so happens that this one of those sedans that inherited a bit of extra spirit.

Luxury sedans tend to edge to the side of luxury or performance, and the M37 has opted for performance in a big way. How does this Infiniti go about gaining that performance? In order to answer this question, first pop the hood and take a gander. You may be surprised to find the Nissan 3.7-liter V-6 firmly mounted there. This engine seems even more out of place when you consider that the 2010 M45 had a V-8. However, don’t automatically assume that the M37 is sacrificing power. The Nissan V-6 turns out 330 horsepower, which exceeds the V-8 that was present in the M45.

It’s always nice and reassuring to have power, to know that when necessary you can call on it and it will be there. The M37 gives you that needed power for lane changes and unforeseen obstacles that may arise. From the stand-still position to 60 miles per hour is a matter of 5.3 seconds for this luxury sedan. Just as important, the car also performed well in braking tests. Not that the average driver will be spending any time on a track, but the car showed excellent handling at excess speeds when put through the paces on a racetrack.

Although, when you go to compare car insurance companies, this added power will increase the price of the quotes you get. While this shouldn’t be a deal breaker for everyone, it is something to keep in mind, and understand.

As long as you stay off the racetracks and keep the M37 below excessive speeds you should have no problems achieving the estimated 26 miles per gallon on the highway and 18 miles per gallon in the city. The V-6 is teamed with an automatic 7-speed transmission, and can be purchased with all-wheel or rear-wheel drive.

Inside and out, this car is a site to behold. The exterior has been defined as “sleek yet sturdy,” and the interior as “luxurious and high-tech.” It comes fitted with an audio system from one of the most respected names in the field. The Bose system has a clear, crisp and powerful sound. Add to this a top of the line air-purification system, the latest in navigational features, ventilated front seats and the amenities go on and on.

If the Infinite M37 sounds like your car and you decide to go out for a test drive, be aware that this is a luxury automobile and this designation is reflected in the price. Also, remember that though we have defined the car as a midsized luxury sedan, there is room enough for the family and when you’re behind the wheel taking the car through the paces it doesn’t take much of an imagination to picture yourself in a high-performance European sports car.