Infiniti M35h GT Premium: 359bhp Hybrid Sedan Review

The Infiniti M35h GT Premium stands out as a bold entry in the luxury hybrid sedan segment, blending a potent V6 engine with electric assistance for exhilarating performance. This top-tier model delivers 359bhp combined output, achieving 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds, outpacing rivals like the Lexus GS450h and BMW ActiveHybrid 5.

Powertrain Excellence: V6 Meets Electric Boost

At the heart of the M35h lies a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine producing 306bhp, paired with a 68bhp electric motor integrated between the engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission. This setup yields 359bhp and 359lb ft of torque, enabling seamless power delivery. The electric motor provides instant low-end torque, making acceleration feel savage, even capable of light burnouts on dry roads.

Drive modes—Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow—allow customization. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer for spirited driving, while Eco aims for efficiency but often feels sluggish. Real-world testing shows combined fuel economy around 6.9L/100km claimed, but tested figures reach 8.8-10.3L/100km depending on conditions. CO2 emissions sit at 159g/km, appealing for company car users.

Exterior Design: Bold and Unconventional

The M35h’s exterior eschews straight lines for a sculpted, aggressive look with creased panels and a prominent grille. It measures over 4.9 meters long, riding on 18-inch alloys with 245/50 Dunlop Sport Maxx tires and an alloy space-saver spare. Bi-xenon headlights with auto high-beam, power-folding mirrors, and LED taillights enhance its premium presence. While divisive, the design challenges conventional luxury sedan aesthetics, prioritizing visual impact.

Interior Luxury: Space, Tech, and Comfort

Inside, the cabin exudes quality with leather upholstery, wood accents, and soft-touch materials. Front seats offer 10-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and ample space for long journeys. Rear passengers enjoy face-level vents, height-adjustable headrests, and a power sunblind, though headroom is tight for the tallest.

Technology abounds: dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, sat-nav, Bluetooth, a 16-speaker Bose system with active noise cancellation and 10GB music storage, reversing camera, and air purifier. Safety features include radar cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and parking sensors. Build quality impresses, but some switchgear feels dated, and ergonomics can frustrate with fiddly controls.

Boot capacity is a drawback at 350 liters, compromised by the rear-mounted lithium-ion battery, limiting it to a few suitcases.

Driving Dynamics: Rapid Yet Compromised

On the road, the M35h excels in straight-line speed and refinement. Superb sound insulation and vibration isolation create a serene environment, with the seven-speed auto shifting smoothly and offering paddle-shift manual control. Sport mode stiffens suspension for better body control, but handling lacks precision—steering feels numb, and cornering grip is abundant yet uninspiring compared to BMW 5 Series.

Brakes are strong but can feel grabby, and throttle response is snappy, sometimes unsettling in traffic. Ride quality balances comfort over rough surfaces, though tire noise intrudes on coarse roads. It’s a cruiser at heart, thriving on motorways where its power shines.

Safety and Reliability Insights

Equipped with advanced aids like adaptive cruise, blind-spot detection, and lane departure warning, the M35h prioritizes safety. While specific ANCAP ratings aren’t detailed, its tech suite aligns with top luxury standards. Infiniti’s four-year warranty and roadside assistance add peace of mind.

Performance Specifications at a Glance

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Strengths

• Pros: Explosive acceleration, luxurious refinement, packed with tech, smooth transmission.
• Cons: Limited boot space, thirsty in real-world use, numb handling, ergonomic quirks.

Ratings from reviewers average 3-3.5/5, praising power but noting compromises in dynamics and efficiency.

Market Position: Against the Competition

Priced from £42,020 in the UK or $99,900 in Australia, the M35h targets buyers seeking something different from German triples. It undercuts some rivals in performance but trails in resale and brand cachet. Ideal for those valuing hybrid innovation and straight-line speed over agile handling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Infiniti M35h GT Premium fast?

Yes, with 359bhp, it sprints to 62mph in 5.5 seconds, quicker than many luxury hybrids.

How fuel-efficient is it?

Claimed 6.9L/100km, but tests show 8.8-10.3L/100km combined.

What’s the boot space like?

Only 350 liters due to the battery, smaller than competitors.

Does it have good safety features?

Yes, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise.

Is the handling engaging?

It offers grip but lacks steering feel, better for cruising than cornering.

Final Verdict: A Unique Hybrid Contender

The Infiniti M35h GT Premium delivers thrilling power and luxury in a package that defies norms, making it a compelling choice for performance-oriented hybrid fans. Despite flaws like boot space and handling, its raw pace and refinement earn respect in a crowded market.