No problems to report yet. (It's an M45, but that was not available to select as a model)
As I expected, it's a one amazing car. It's just a driver for me, but it's got everything I want, and a few other gadgets that I can "discover" when I get bored one day.
Super silky smooth V8, unbelievable how quiet it is. This engine is also gutsy and moves this beast with ease. The premium gas usage is pricey if you are not used to it, and if you push this car, that only encourages the gas gauge to fall rapidly. Still, 18-23 MPG is easily manageable. This car is really fun to drive, unlike the larger fleet cars such as the Town Car and the older Devilles.
The large wheels are surprisingly fitting for this car. It adds to the look, rather than detracts.
The AWD is very nice for wet days, but, it doesn't do a lot for the snow. The car does better than, let's say, the good old rear drive Cadillacs, but it's nowhere near rally car or truck AWD traction. I didn't expect it to be though.
The stereo is a bit hard to work if you are just beginning to use it. It takes time to understand what all of those buttons do.
It's very complicated inside when you first get in. The push button ignition is a nice feature, along with the navigation and on board computer.
I had a choice of both the M45 or the Q45, but I was partial to the much improved styling of the car since 03. It's a lot prettier than the previous M series, and better looking (in my opinion) than the Q45.
I wonder what the main difference is between the my car and the Q45. I didn't even bother to drive the Q, just because I didn't like the way it looked. I hear that this car may have out done it's higher priced relative, and from the experience I've had, I wouldn't doubt it.
Well, in all, I like this car a lot. It's one of those cars that people look at and ask you "What is that?" They are not common at all, but, definitely worth the look.
I would like the opportunity to share my M45 Sport experience with everyone, if I may. (I do not own an M45 Sport, I currently drive a 1995 Infiniti J30). I was window shopping for cars a couple of weeks ago due to a new job I started. A few of the cars I looked at were the new Camry Hybrid, the new Accord Hybrid, the Corvette, and the M45 Sport. I was to shy to ask for a test drive at the dealership, but the salesman was very friendly and inviting, and talked me into it. As a matter of fact, we took the new Q45 out for a spin as well.
The black interior with the genuine aluminum trim is hands down the best I have have ever seen in my life. It makes the S-Class and 7-Series by Mercedes and BMW look terribly outdated. The graphics on the Navigation system are so colorful and exciting that it makes your eyes water.
Also the Navigation system is extremely advanced versus other makes\models. For example, if you're on the highway and you pass "exit #20", the car will detect this automatically and you'll hear a voice say "passing exit 20" at the precise moment that you do.
The voice activated stereo is highly competent as well. If you gently say "tune 96.3" the station will come up the first time without having to repeat it. Also the fact the there's an MP3 player allows a tech savvy individual to have an entire music collection of 200+ songs on 1 disc. My only complaint about the car is the boring exterior. For a fully loaded car, one is looking at close to 60K (before financing, taxes, extended warranties, etc.)
Bottom line, it's a buy. If I can't find a 3000GT (Mitsubishi) in good condition over the next few months, the M45 Sport is a done deal. I encourage all prospective new car buyers to consider this lovely vehicle. Sure it cost more than an average sedan, but you can't put a price on passion...
I just wanted to add my thoughts on the M35X that I just bought. I was really looking at buying a Lexus GS 300 but for some reason could not get a sales person to help me when I walked into the showroom, this happened 3 times. So I did something I said I would not do, drove down the road to an Infiniti dealer. (I had owned a previous QX4 Suv) Wow, when I first sat in the M35x car I was very pleased with the fit and finish of the car, having said that I looked at the price tag and was very impressed,much lower then the Lexus, after the test drive I ordered a new M35X fully loaded, only had it a few days, but I am very pleased. The dealer has been very helpful and so far its been a pleasure driving. Bang for the dollars I believe the M35X is the way to go. I will add more comments as I continue to drive it.
I surprised my wife with an M45 last month for her birthday. She absolutely hates the car. She complained from day one about all the technology the car has. She can never get the A/C or radio to work right, the navigation isn't even an option for her. She says her 2002 Lexus GS430 had much more user friendly controls, my son now drives that car. I have been driving the M45 the past few weeks. My wife has stolen my 2006 Lexus GS430. Although it has most the features there much better placed and a lot easier to use. I have no problem with the M45. I wish I would have had her drive the car first before paying cash for it. I'm happy with the car, but would prefer my Lexus. In January I will be trading it for the LS460.
Since I own the car for 1 month, I find myself looking for reasons to drive my 2007 M35x because the drive itself is so enjoyable. The handling is superb, the engine is responsive, the brake and turning circle are the best in its class. I really feel connected when I drive with the engine roar and yet it is quiet when cruising on highways.
The features of the car are so customizable that I can really call it MINE: change the screen color, turn ICC, LDW and VDC on/off; lift the steering wheel and/or move the seat backward when I open the door... etc (you got the picture, I am like a kid in a candy shop).
The M is not a common car (unlike BMW), I get excited just to see another M on the road. The gas mileage is below average, but I don't drive enough to make a difference. The 2007 side passenger seat has the same controls as the driver and it is very comfortable. Mine has reclining back seats and DVD player, very cool toys for the kids too.
One month and counting, it ranked #1 for customer satisfaction in Consumer Reports and I can really see why. Those who do their research and can see pass brand names (and pay less too) will love this car.
Wish list: 6-gear auto, touch-screen navigation, fold-down back seats, air suspension and vertically open doors (not really)
Rather than getting an infiniti, spend the same amount or a bit more and get a lexus or benz, which have prooven quality and you will be happy.
<<Rather than getting an infiniti, spend the same amount or a bit more and get a lexus or benz, which have prooven quality and you will be happy.>.
Mercedes-Benz E Class cars have not had good reliablity for several years now, although that is allegedly changing. The Lexus GS cars, while luxurious, are simply boring to drive.