The Infiniti M35h, produced from 2011 to 2019 as part of the fourth-generation (Y51) Infiniti M series, represented a significant step for the brand into the luxury hybrid market. Positioned as a premium offering within the M lineup, the M35h combined a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 360 horsepower. This model aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and luxury, appealing to buyers seeking a sophisticated and technologically advanced sedan. The Y51 platform, shared with the Nissan Fuga in Japan, was specifically adapted to accommodate the hybrid powertrain and deliver a refined driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | M |
| Generation | M IV (Y51) |
| Type (Engine) | M35h V6 (360 Hp) Hybrid Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier 2. Bin 5. LEV2 U-LEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 191.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.6 Nm/tonne |
| Battery voltage | 346 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Electric motor power | 67 Hp @ 1770 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 270 Nm @ 1770 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1770 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 360 Hp |
| Engine Power | 302 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 350 Nm @ 5000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ35HR |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1876 kg (4135.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2390 kg (5269.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 514 kg (1133.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Length | 4945 mm (194.69 in.) |
| Width | 1844 mm (72.6 in.) |
| Height | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2901 mm (114.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 152 mm (5.98 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. FHEV. ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320.04×27.94 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 307.34×15.24 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 V |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the M35h is Nissan’s VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, produces 302 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The hybrid system adds a 67-horsepower electric motor, powered by a 346-volt lithium-ion battery pack located under the trunk floor. The electric motor isn’t directly connected to the wheels; instead, it assists the gasoline engine, providing extra power during acceleration and enabling regenerative braking to recharge the battery. The seven-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned for the hybrid powertrain, manages power delivery efficiently. The system prioritizes electric drive at low speeds and seamlessly transitions to gasoline or a combination of both depending on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The M35h offers a noticeably different driving experience compared to its gasoline-only counterparts. The electric motor provides instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration, particularly from a standstill. While not as overtly sporty as the M56 with its larger V8, the M35h delivers ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The seven-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive shifts. The hybrid system’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, and the car can operate in electric-only mode for short distances at low speeds. However, the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor does slightly impact handling agility compared to lighter M models. The steering is precise, but the overall feel is more geared towards comfort than outright sportiness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M35h typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium model. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a premium audio system, a navigation system, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, a blind-spot monitoring system, and adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options generally included wood or aluminum accents. The dashboard layout was similar to other M models, with a focus on user-friendliness and a luxurious aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The M35h utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension with a stabilizer bar. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Brakes are ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. Due to the added weight of the hybrid components, the suspension was tuned to provide a more controlled ride, and stabilizer bar thicknesses were optimized for the increased mass.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti M35h was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency and smooth driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the hybrid system added complexity and cost compared to the standard M35. Compared to the M56, the M35h offered less outright performance but significantly better fuel economy. Against other luxury hybrid sedans like the Lexus GS 450h, the M35h offered a more driver-focused experience, though the Lexus often received higher marks for refinement and reliability. Fuel economy figures of around 29 mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Infiniti M35h represented Infiniti’s early foray into the hybrid luxury sedan segment. While not a massive sales success, it demonstrated the brand’s commitment to innovation and fuel efficiency. The VQ35HR engine, known for its durability, generally proves reliable, although the hybrid system components, particularly the battery pack, can require maintenance or replacement over time. On the used car market, the M35h offers a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and fuel-efficient sedan with a unique powertrain. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with maintaining the hybrid system and ensure a thorough inspection before purchase.
