Infiniti M 2.5 Premium (A) Review
23 May 2012|22,013 views
As much as we love screaming horsepower and mountain-moving torque on tap, we need to take a step back and understand the need for sensible engines in affordable rides, even in the luxury segment.
This brings us to Infiniti, Nissan's luxury division. Positioning itself as a performance carmaker, the M25 is the lowest variant in the 'M' line-up. As a result, it may not be a very attractive offer to say the Americans or the Brits. But it does make perfect sense in Singapore and Infiniti has certainly made a smart choice by bringing in the car to our shores.
Taking the downsized 5 Series, 528i, for example - having a lower-priced car with a smaller displacement and higher fuel economy archetype seems to be working well for the Bavarian brand. Theoretically speaking, with current COE prices ridiculously reaching $100,000, it should work well for the Japanese marque too.
At $249,000 (as of 20th April 2012), the Infiniti M25 is priced almost $30,000 lesser than the 528i. Although not many are on the road yet, it won't be a surprise if the cult starts growing, thanks to its design approach that appears to be the exception rather than the norm.
Exterior
Appearing similar to its hybrid counterpart that we tested in mid-April, Infiniti makes no reservations about the M25's wavy sheet metal. It's not so much of being beautiful, instead, the originality and sensuality of the car's design unify to set it on par with the contemporaries from different brands.
This brings us to Infiniti, Nissan's luxury division. Positioning itself as a performance carmaker, the M25 is the lowest variant in the 'M' line-up. As a result, it may not be a very attractive offer to say the Americans or the Brits. But it does make perfect sense in Singapore and Infiniti has certainly made a smart choice by bringing in the car to our shores.
Taking the downsized 5 Series, 528i, for example - having a lower-priced car with a smaller displacement and higher fuel economy archetype seems to be working well for the Bavarian brand. Theoretically speaking, with current COE prices ridiculously reaching $100,000, it should work well for the Japanese marque too.
At $249,000 (as of 20th April 2012), the Infiniti M25 is priced almost $30,000 lesser than the 528i. Although not many are on the road yet, it won't be a surprise if the cult starts growing, thanks to its design approach that appears to be the exception rather than the norm.
Exterior
Appearing similar to its hybrid counterpart that we tested in mid-April, Infiniti makes no reservations about the M25's wavy sheet metal. It's not so much of being beautiful, instead, the originality and sensuality of the car's design unify to set it on par with the contemporaries from different brands.
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The long bonnet and high rear deck of the M25 draw remote parallels with the Porsche Panamera which is no bad thing, and has more bulk and masculinity over the 528i. Hence, the car has a certain appeal to it and is easy on the eyes, even when those size 18 shoes appear lost in the swelled up arches.
It has more bulk and masculinity than its competitors The wave-like trunk at the back that works like a spoiler does imply some functional means rather than just mere form. The sporty factor here will be the twin tail pipes thrusting from each end of the valance, resulting in a stance which doesn't rely solely on its flared arches to make an impact.
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Interior
The degree of quality here differs a fair bit from most of its competitors. Not only has Infiniti done well in keeping the cabin elaborately straightforward, the wavy dashboard harmonises the brand's design language while the centre console sports a nice blend of wood, leather and chrome - all finely and flawlessly finished.
In a way, the cabin mixtures luxury with a little conservatism. It's a good change considering it's a refreshing sight from all the other big brands that are constantly intimidating the technological challenged - which we're almost certain a lot of drivers out there don't even use half of the features offered in their cars.
The most enjoyable part, as we did with the Infiniti M35h, was the sound system. It isn't so much of complimenting Bose as a quality sound system specialist but more of where the speakers are located in the cabin that will enhance the entire 'concert on wheels' experience. Located on the shoulders of the front seats are 'personal' speakers that will allow front occupants to enjoy head banging music (if they're into rock and roll, of course) while on the move, taking pleasurable driving experience to the next level.
The degree of quality here differs a fair bit from most of its competitors. Not only has Infiniti done well in keeping the cabin elaborately straightforward, the wavy dashboard harmonises the brand's design language while the centre console sports a nice blend of wood, leather and chrome - all finely and flawlessly finished.
In a way, the cabin mixtures luxury with a little conservatism. It's a good change considering it's a refreshing sight from all the other big brands that are constantly intimidating the technological challenged - which we're almost certain a lot of drivers out there don't even use half of the features offered in their cars.
The most enjoyable part, as we did with the Infiniti M35h, was the sound system. It isn't so much of complimenting Bose as a quality sound system specialist but more of where the speakers are located in the cabin that will enhance the entire 'concert on wheels' experience. Located on the shoulders of the front seats are 'personal' speakers that will allow front occupants to enjoy head banging music (if they're into rock and roll, of course) while on the move, taking pleasurable driving experience to the next level.
In terms of its space, the M25 does not disappoint. The luxury sedan will haul five occupants with ample head, leg and shoulder room over long distances without the need to visit the chiropractor - credit goes to the generous wheelbase of 2,900mm. More unselfishly, the boot space is huge enough to throw in a couple of golf bags and luggage for the overseas golf trips.
Generous bootspace that will cater to your needs and wants
Generous bootspace that will cater to your needs and wants  |
The Drive
On the move, the Infiniti makes you feel shortchanged at times due to the acceleration lag. But that's a small quibble if we consider the target audience of the M25.
With 219 horses and 253Nm of torque available at your right foot's bidding, the M25 will get up to a steady trot in a smooth manner. Hence, keeping up with traffic and overtaking on highways is an easy job, but it will not win many races. The upside, though, is when you drive the car with conviction. Floor the accelerator and the M25 gives out a rather stirring engine note that sounds like no other 2.5-litre powerplant in the market. You can literally hear the V6 engine pounding underneath.
But again, the go-crazy-on-the-road thrust shouldn't concern the car's target market. Comparing this smaller-engined sedan to its much bigger siblings in Infiniti's stable, the M25 may not have overwhelming power and torque figures but it has a lot of heart. And it should be able to check everything on the requirement list of a non-enthusiast.
On the move, the Infiniti makes you feel shortchanged at times due to the acceleration lag. But that's a small quibble if we consider the target audience of the M25.
With 219 horses and 253Nm of torque available at your right foot's bidding, the M25 will get up to a steady trot in a smooth manner. Hence, keeping up with traffic and overtaking on highways is an easy job, but it will not win many races. The upside, though, is when you drive the car with conviction. Floor the accelerator and the M25 gives out a rather stirring engine note that sounds like no other 2.5-litre powerplant in the market. You can literally hear the V6 engine pounding underneath.
But again, the go-crazy-on-the-road thrust shouldn't concern the car's target market. Comparing this smaller-engined sedan to its much bigger siblings in Infiniti's stable, the M25 may not have overwhelming power and torque figures but it has a lot of heart. And it should be able to check everything on the requirement list of a non-enthusiast.
Bearing in mind that the car still has the spirit to finish the century sprint in 9.2 seconds despite its heft of 1,765kg and its ability to reach a top speed of 231km/h, it shows its devotion.
Conclusion
If the low performance figures of the Infiniti M25 aren't going to attract buyers, the lower prices and fuel economy should. Costing $20,000 lesser than the M37 Premium, many reckon that the M25 is a more suitable buy, especially in Singapore where the lack of space calls for the lack of speed.
If only the M25 arrived in Singapore before the COE went berserk.
Conclusion
If the low performance figures of the Infiniti M25 aren't going to attract buyers, the lower prices and fuel economy should. Costing $20,000 lesser than the M37 Premium, many reckon that the M25 is a more suitable buy, especially in Singapore where the lack of space calls for the lack of speed.
If only the M25 arrived in Singapore before the COE went berserk.
As much as we love screaming horsepower and mountain-moving torque on tap, we need to take a step back and understand the need for sensible engines in affordable rides, even in the luxury segment.
This brings us to Infiniti, Nissan's luxury division. Positioning itself as a performance carmaker, the M25 is the lowest variant in the 'M' line-up. As a result, it may not be a very attractive offer to say the Americans or the Brits. But it does make perfect sense in Singapore and Infiniti has certainly made a smart choice by bringing in the car to our shores.
Taking the downsized 5 Series, 528i, for example - having a lower-priced car with a smaller displacement and higher fuel economy archetype seems to be working well for the Bavarian brand. Theoretically speaking, with current COE prices ridiculously reaching $100,000, it should work well for the Japanese marque too.
At $249,000 (as of 20th April 2012), the Infiniti M25 is priced almost $30,000 lesser than the 528i. Although not many are on the road yet, it won't be a surprise if the cult starts growing, thanks to its design approach that appears to be the exception rather than the norm.
Exterior
Appearing similar to its hybrid counterpart that we tested in mid-April, Infiniti makes no reservations about the M25's wavy sheet metal. It's not so much of being beautiful, instead, the originality and sensuality of the car's design unify to set it on par with the contemporaries from different brands.
This brings us to Infiniti, Nissan's luxury division. Positioning itself as a performance carmaker, the M25 is the lowest variant in the 'M' line-up. As a result, it may not be a very attractive offer to say the Americans or the Brits. But it does make perfect sense in Singapore and Infiniti has certainly made a smart choice by bringing in the car to our shores.
Taking the downsized 5 Series, 528i, for example - having a lower-priced car with a smaller displacement and higher fuel economy archetype seems to be working well for the Bavarian brand. Theoretically speaking, with current COE prices ridiculously reaching $100,000, it should work well for the Japanese marque too.
At $249,000 (as of 20th April 2012), the Infiniti M25 is priced almost $30,000 lesser than the 528i. Although not many are on the road yet, it won't be a surprise if the cult starts growing, thanks to its design approach that appears to be the exception rather than the norm.
Exterior
Appearing similar to its hybrid counterpart that we tested in mid-April, Infiniti makes no reservations about the M25's wavy sheet metal. It's not so much of being beautiful, instead, the originality and sensuality of the car's design unify to set it on par with the contemporaries from different brands.
|
The long bonnet and high rear deck of the M25 draw remote parallels with the Porsche Panamera which is no bad thing, and has more bulk and masculinity over the 528i. Hence, the car has a certain appeal to it and is easy on the eyes, even when those size 18 shoes appear lost in the swelled up arches.
It has more bulk and masculinity than its competitors The wave-like trunk at the back that works like a spoiler does imply some functional means rather than just mere form. The sporty factor here will be the twin tail pipes thrusting from each end of the valance, resulting in a stance which doesn't rely solely on its flared arches to make an impact.
|
Interior
The degree of quality here differs a fair bit from most of its competitors. Not only has Infiniti done well in keeping the cabin elaborately straightforward, the wavy dashboard harmonises the brand's design language while the centre console sports a nice blend of wood, leather and chrome - all finely and flawlessly finished.
In a way, the cabin mixtures luxury with a little conservatism. It's a good change considering it's a refreshing sight from all the other big brands that are constantly intimidating the technological challenged - which we're almost certain a lot of drivers out there don't even use half of the features offered in their cars.
The most enjoyable part, as we did with the Infiniti M35h, was the sound system. It isn't so much of complimenting Bose as a quality sound system specialist but more of where the speakers are located in the cabin that will enhance the entire 'concert on wheels' experience. Located on the shoulders of the front seats are 'personal' speakers that will allow front occupants to enjoy head banging music (if they're into rock and roll, of course) while on the move, taking pleasurable driving experience to the next level.
The degree of quality here differs a fair bit from most of its competitors. Not only has Infiniti done well in keeping the cabin elaborately straightforward, the wavy dashboard harmonises the brand's design language while the centre console sports a nice blend of wood, leather and chrome - all finely and flawlessly finished.
In a way, the cabin mixtures luxury with a little conservatism. It's a good change considering it's a refreshing sight from all the other big brands that are constantly intimidating the technological challenged - which we're almost certain a lot of drivers out there don't even use half of the features offered in their cars.
The most enjoyable part, as we did with the Infiniti M35h, was the sound system. It isn't so much of complimenting Bose as a quality sound system specialist but more of where the speakers are located in the cabin that will enhance the entire 'concert on wheels' experience. Located on the shoulders of the front seats are 'personal' speakers that will allow front occupants to enjoy head banging music (if they're into rock and roll, of course) while on the move, taking pleasurable driving experience to the next level.
In terms of its space, the M25 does not disappoint. The luxury sedan will haul five occupants with ample head, leg and shoulder room over long distances without the need to visit the chiropractor - credit goes to the generous wheelbase of 2,900mm. More unselfishly, the boot space is huge enough to throw in a couple of golf bags and luggage for the overseas golf trips.
Generous bootspace that will cater to your needs and wants
Generous bootspace that will cater to your needs and wants |
The Drive
On the move, the Infiniti makes you feel shortchanged at times due to the acceleration lag. But that's a small quibble if we consider the target audience of the M25.
With 219 horses and 253Nm of torque available at your right foot's bidding, the M25 will get up to a steady trot in a smooth manner. Hence, keeping up with traffic and overtaking on highways is an easy job, but it will not win many races. The upside, though, is when you drive the car with conviction. Floor the accelerator and the M25 gives out a rather stirring engine note that sounds like no other 2.5-litre powerplant in the market. You can literally hear the V6 engine pounding underneath.
But again, the go-crazy-on-the-road thrust shouldn't concern the car's target market. Comparing this smaller-engined sedan to its much bigger siblings in Infiniti's stable, the M25 may not have overwhelming power and torque figures but it has a lot of heart. And it should be able to check everything on the requirement list of a non-enthusiast.
On the move, the Infiniti makes you feel shortchanged at times due to the acceleration lag. But that's a small quibble if we consider the target audience of the M25.
With 219 horses and 253Nm of torque available at your right foot's bidding, the M25 will get up to a steady trot in a smooth manner. Hence, keeping up with traffic and overtaking on highways is an easy job, but it will not win many races. The upside, though, is when you drive the car with conviction. Floor the accelerator and the M25 gives out a rather stirring engine note that sounds like no other 2.5-litre powerplant in the market. You can literally hear the V6 engine pounding underneath.
But again, the go-crazy-on-the-road thrust shouldn't concern the car's target market. Comparing this smaller-engined sedan to its much bigger siblings in Infiniti's stable, the M25 may not have overwhelming power and torque figures but it has a lot of heart. And it should be able to check everything on the requirement list of a non-enthusiast.
Bearing in mind that the car still has the spirit to finish the century sprint in 9.2 seconds despite its heft of 1,765kg and its ability to reach a top speed of 231km/h, it shows its devotion.
Conclusion
If the low performance figures of the Infiniti M25 aren't going to attract buyers, the lower prices and fuel economy should. Costing $20,000 lesser than the M37 Premium, many reckon that the M25 is a more suitable buy, especially in Singapore where the lack of space calls for the lack of speed.
If only the M25 arrived in Singapore before the COE went berserk.
Conclusion
If the low performance figures of the Infiniti M25 aren't going to attract buyers, the lower prices and fuel economy should. Costing $20,000 lesser than the M37 Premium, many reckon that the M25 is a more suitable buy, especially in Singapore where the lack of space calls for the lack of speed.
If only the M25 arrived in Singapore before the COE went berserk.
Photos by Julian Kho
Also read our comparison article on:
Audi A6 1.8 TFSI Ultra S-tronic (A) vs Infiniti Q70 2.5 V6 Premium (A)
Car Information
Infiniti Q70 2.5 Premium (A)
CAT B|Petrol|10.1km/L
Horsepower
163kW (219 bhp)
Torque
253 Nm
Acceleration
9.2sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Infiniti Q70
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