2011 Infiniti M56

Strong performance, engaging handling, many high-tech features, classy interior, lower price than European rivals is what the 2011 Infiniti M56 has to offer.

Along with its V6-powered sibling, the new M37, the 2011 Infiniti M56 is a midsize luxury sedan available with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. As before, the M caters to those buyers who are looking for an involving and rewarding drive from their luxury car, and this Infiniti certainly won’t disappoint. Although the M37 likely features all the power you’d ever need, the M56 is for those who desire a whole lot more.

It was also one of the most technologically advanced at one time, and that distinction has once again returned. The number of comfort, safety, performance and entertainment features that inhabit the standard and optional equipment lists is impressive. Not only are new items like the Forest Air purification system and Active Trace Control (which enhances the transition from braking to acceleration through corners) been added, but previous features like the navigation system have been improved. Perhaps best of all, many of these features reside in a cabin that is now more attractive and better made.

Still, the 2011 Infiniti M56 in NJ has a lot of worthwhile V8-powered competitors to consider even if they’re generally more expensive. Visit Admiral Infiniti for more info on the M56.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Infiniti M56 is a midsize luxury sedan available in a lone trim level, though there is an M37 discussed in a separate review that is essentially the same car but with a smaller engine and less standard equipment.

The M56 comes standard with 18-inch wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlights, foglights, power-folding heated mirrors, automatic wipers, a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated eight-way power front seats, driver memory functions, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, a heated steering wheel and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Also standard are a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a navigation system (includes voice control, real-time traffic and real-time weather) and a 10-speaker Bose stereo with a CD/DVD player, auxiliary audio/visual jack, streaming Bluetooth audio, iPod interface, satellite radio and digital music storage.

The Deluxe Touring package adds a power rear sunshade, an in-car air purifier, upgraded leather upholstery and interior trim and a 16-speaker Bose surround-sound stereo. The Sport package (not available with all-wheel drive or the Deluxe Touring package) adds 20-inch wheels, summer tires, sport-tuned suspension and brakes, four-wheel active steering, sport seats and steering wheel, and unique exterior styling elements. The Sport Touring package adds the surround-sound stereo, air purifier and power sunshade to the Sport package. The Technology package includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and prevention system, blind-spot warning system, forward collision warning system, adaptive headlights and the “eco pedal” that provides the driver feedback to encourage fuel-efficient driving.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2011 Infiniti M56, available at our NJ Infiniti dealer, is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 that produces 420 hp and 417 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but the M56x features all-wheel drive. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard and includes manual override shift paddles and four different shift modes (Standard, Sport, Snow or Eco). EPA-estimated fuel economy is 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway, while the M56x achieves 16/23.

Safety

The M56 comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and active head restraints. Included in the Technology package are a lane departure warning and prevention system, blind-spot warning system and a forward collision warning system with intelligent brake assist.

Interior Design and Special Features

Infiniti has given the new M56 a top-notch cabin design and high-quality materials. If you select the Deluxe Touring or Sport Touring packages, the seats are upgraded with diamond-quilted leather and contrast piping, unique wood trim, a faux-suede headliner and enhanced materials added to most primary touch points. In total, the M56 has an interior worthy of taking on its established European rivals.

The cabin is quite roomy, offering generous space for all occupants and a relatively tall greenhouse that provides good outward visibility. As for technology, it’s hard to think of a rival that betters the M56 for all the available entertainment, comfort and safety technologies that can be had once you check all the options boxes. In particular, Infiniti’s navigation and audio interfaces are some of the most user-friendly in the business.

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