Infiniti adds hybrid M35h and entry M25 to its local lineup

Inspired Motor, the distributor of Infiniti vehicles in Malaysia, has introduced two new variants to its M sedan lineup. One of it is the M35h hybrid, which we saw coming via spyshots, while the other is the entry level M25. They join the M37 sedan.

The M35h is billed as the “driver’s hybrid” that puts performance first. Its Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system mates a 302 hp 3.5 litre V6 with a 68 hp/270 Nm electric motor in a two-clutch layout. The hybrid M is capable of 0-100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds, nicely backing up its “performance-first” credentials. Fuel consumption is rated at 14.5km/l on the NEDC combined cycle.

The first (dry) clutch is installed between the V6 and the motor/transmission. Electronically controlled, it allows the full decoupling of the V6 when the car is in electric drive and power regeneration modes. This reduces mechanical drag.

The second (wet) clutch sits on the other side of the electric motor. It is packaged within the transmission where its function replaces that of a conventional torque converter, in effect turning the seven-speed auto into an automated manual, with 10% better fuel consumption over an equivalent torque converter unit.

The M35h’s steering is an electro-hydraulic system with “on-demand” assistance, claimed to offer the natural feel of hydraulic power steering and the improved efficiency of EPS. In Electric Driven Intelligent Brake, said to be a world’s first, the car’s electric motor operates the brake cylinders.

Luxury features include semi-aniline leather, ventilated climate-control front seats, Forest Air climate control, 16-speaker Bose surround sound system, hand-buffed high gloss Japanese White Ash wood trim, bi-xenon adaptive front-lighting system (AFS) with washer and HDD Infiniti Music Box, among other things. The M35h costs RM499,000 OTR without insurance.

On the other end of the price scale is the M25, although it can be called affordable at RM350k. The entry level M is powered by a 218hp/243Nm 2.5 liter V6 mated to a seven-speed automatic. The rear-wheel driven M25 completes the benchmark 0-100 km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds, and will go on to 231 km/h.

There’s little to distinguish the M25 from pricier variants, as all M cars wear 18-inch alloys. Drive Mode Selector, Active Noise Control, AFS, Intelligent Key, powered glass moon-roof and quilted leather seats are all in the package. The M37 is priced at RM425k.

The sole Infiniti Centre in Malaysia is located at Chulan Square along Jalan Raja Chulan in KL.