Infiniti M35h: Rolling IQ test?

F. Scott Fitzgerald called intelligence “the ability to hold two opposing ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.” Which, it could be argued, makes Infiniti’s new $55,000 hybrid a rolling intelligence test. To be sure, the M35h is not the first — or most — spendy hybrid. The current high-price title-holder is Lexus’s $120,000 LS 600h L. Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and BMW all field upscale electron-churners, every one of them begging the question: Why would a person of substance care so much about saving a few bucks at the pump? The answer is not a simple one, it seems. A Lexus exec once told me the well-heeled hate wasting time at the gas station. To which I say, Don’t we all? Infiniti’s own Larry Dominique offers this: “It’s a little bit about feeling good about your purchase.” Makes sense; hybrids reduce dependence on fossil fuels and spew a fraction of the hydrocarbons of garden-variety powerplants. In the case of the M35h, though, there’s another good reason. It may be the best of the M series lot. Infiniti is Nissan’s upscale brand, and the M is its midsize luxury-performance sedan. It’s available in three blends: the V-6-powered, 330-horsepower M37 ($49,605, including destination), the 360-hp M35h ($55,655) and the eight-cylinder M56 ($62,105). All start out as rear-wheel-drive sedans, with AWD optional on the M37 and M56. Of course, efficiency is the hybrid’s raison d’être and the numbers bare it out: M35h, 27/32 mpg; M37, 18/26 and M57, 16/23. But can efficiency alone justify the $6,000 gap that separates the hybrid from its conventional sibling? Perhaps not. But, besides being more efficient than the M37, the hybrid is more powerful. It equals the M56’s 5.2-second 0-60 sprint, besting the M37’s by a half-second. At the heart of Infiniti’s Direct Response Hybrid system is a seven-speed, twin-clutch automatic transmission. The clutches are the secret sauce that enables the tech-heavy folderol that makes it all work. But for the shudder that occurs when the gas engine engages, there’s little to suggest one is piloting a hybrid. Acceleration is swift and sure and, like its M class siblings, the M35h scorches corners with its neutral, rear-drive stance, sharp turn-in and well-controlled body roll. Each of the Ms is endowed with bold, athletic styling and elegant, handsomely outfitted cabins. The roomy cabin and tall greenhouse produce an open, airy ambience and excellent sight lines. Large, supportive and well bolstered seats provide support during high-g-force maneuvers. Buyers pick and choose among an array of standard and optional features, including some of the industry’s most advanced safety systems. Amidst the wood, the leather and the high-tech glory, Infiniti’s signature analog clock keeps the time. The single fly in the M35h ointment is its abbreviated trunk, a good chunk of which is consumed by the battery pack. The M35h may be the grand slam of contradictory thinking. Who knew efficiency could be this fast, fun and comfortable? Don Adair is a Spokane-based freelance writer. Contact him at don@dadair.com 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid Base price: $54,200 As tested: $66,245 Optional equipment: Our tester included the $3,050 Technology Package, the $3,900 Deluxe Touring Package and the $4,200 Premium Package. EPA ratings: 27 city/32 highway/29 combined Premium unleaded fuel required