Car Statistics: Infiniti - M Series 11 (3 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Infiniti is determined to not be a carbon copy imitation of its German rivals, and the M is pleasingly striking, with a curved rump and a pair of muscular shoulders at the front. It might not be a common sight yet, but it is at least an attractive one.

Handling (4 stars)

The steering is precise and responsive, sometimes a little too much so at motorway speeds, but true enthusiasts should go for the S trim that comes with a four-wheel steering system that makes cornering much sharper and all but eliminates understeer.

Comfort (4 stars)

Stick with the GT trim if a comforting ride is your aim - it comes with 18-inch alloys as opposed to the S's 20s. It also comes with a sumptuous leather trim that's supposed to replicate a baby's skin. Unnerving, but super soft.

Quality (4 stars)

The M feels as well put together as any of its rivals in this luxury-focussed class, with the surface materials feeling particularly opulent in the GT trim. The use of some Nissan buttons does detract slightly from the bespoke feel though.

Performance (4 stars)

The engines themselves are hard to fault for performance, but they are let down slightly by an automatic gearbox that can be slightly sluggish when pulling away. Paddles only come on the S trim and there is no manual at all for enthusiastic drivers.

Roominess (3 stars)

All passengers will feel comfortably accommodated, with plenty of head and legroom in front and rear. The boot is not the largest though, and access is a little restricted by the small opening.

Costs (2 stars)

Neither the diesel nor the petrol will make much sense for those that like to watch their fuel bills, falling as they do a long way behind the competition. Rarity should help future resale values though.

Value (4 stars)

The M's range is restricted to just two specifications - GT and S - with a Premium pack (that brings sat nav, upgraded stereo and more) and metallic paint as the only options. It is fabulously well equipped, with electric gizmos in abundance.

Stereo (4 stars)

The sat nav and Bose stereo that comes with the Premium pack adds to the feeling of luxury, and the system is intuitive to use with a rich sound quality.