While the media was given a sneak peak at the all-new 2011 Infiniti M37 and M56 models at a private event a few months back, the cars will be on public display for the first time at the Chicago Auto Show. After dropping out of most auto shows last year, skipping LA and then Detroit at the start of 2010, Infiniti and parent company Nissan made an 11th hour decision to attend the Chicago show.
For 2011 the M will be offered as both an M37 and M56, with both models being either RWD or AWD. Like the G37, the M37 is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 270 ft-lbs of torque. As for the M56, it gets a massive 5.6-liter mill with an impressive 420-hp and 417 ft-lbs of torque. In total, the new top-level M gets 95-hp and 81 ft-lbs of torque over its predecessor, the M45.
Those looking for even more sport can opt for a Sport Package (RWD only), that comes with 20-inch wheels, a sport tuned suspension, larger brake rotors with 4-piston front calipers and two-piston rears, 4-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS) steering, as well as a sport steering wheel, pedals and shift knob. Specific to the Sport Package are special double-piston shocks that deliver a ride that is both comfortable and stable. There's even a unique front fascia.
Both engines come with Infiniti's 7-speed sport automatic transmission, allowing the M56 to get even better fuel economy than the old M45.
As for the car's size, it is larger than the outgoing M, measuring roughly half an inch longer at 194.7 inches, 2-inches wider at 72.6 inches. It is also roughly half an inch lower at 59.1 inches to help keep the car's center of gravity low.
One of the most exciting features on the new M is Infiniti Drive that allows a driver to choose between four settings of throttle pressure and transmission shift points. There's also an Active Tracing Control system that adjusts engine power and braking at all four wheels for optimum performance. Safety items include Blind Spot Warning and Blind Spot Intervention that helps bring the car back towards the center of the lane. There's also an Eco Pedal feature that, when selected, uses green and yellow lights on the instrument panel to give the driver feedback on his or her driving, while also giving feedback through the gas pedal, pushing back to alert the driver when they are operating the vehicle inefficiently. Infiniti says that in testing this simple method has lead to improved fuel economy of five to 10 percent.
AutoGuide's live 2010 Chicago Auto Show coverage begins Wednesday, February 10th.
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Chicago Preview: 2011 Infiniti M37, M56 Set for Public Debut on AutoGuide.com
Chicago Preview: 2011 Infiniti M37, M56 Set for Public Debut
