The Brand New 2012 Infiniti M35h

After 10 minutes at the wheel of the 2012 Infiniti M35h, one thing is clear: Infiniti engineers must despise the hybrids. Torque climbing, steep side streets of West Hollywood, this car does not feel as hybrid science teacher next door. It has gobs of rich power, torque and an audible grunt of its dual chrome exhaust tips. It even handles well and drives - dare we say? - Almost like a sports sedan. So what happens?
The M35h is Infiniti's first foray into water hybrids, and it is obvious that the brand wants to make things a little differently. Slotting in alignment with the Infiniti M's flagship series between the input level, six-cylinder M37 and the top-of-power V-8 M56, M hybrid offers buyers more power than the first and best fuel economy is. With a total of 360 net horsepower of the systems of gas-electric propulsion, the M35h still achieves a fuel economy rating of 29 mpg combined (broken down by 27 city/32 highway). These impressive numbers easily top rear of the unit M37 rating 18/26 mpg.

Infiniti direct response of the hybrid system is unique to the brand, and is in the heart of the M35h. Fully developed in the company, the system has a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V-6 with 302 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, a 50 kW electric motor, clutch and two, one dry and one wet. The dry clutch is positioned between the gasoline engine and electric motor, allowing independent operation of each, helping to increase overall efficiency. The wet clutch is at the tail end of the seven-speed automatic transmission M35h, nixing the need for conventional torque converter. Configuration saves weight and helps provide a more precise gearbox.

A pack of lithium-ion batteries hidden behind the rear seat powers the electric motor, reducing the space available for luggage from 14.9 to 11.3 cubic feet - still enough room to carry four golf bags or two bags large, Infiniti says. In addition to power the drive wheels with or without electric assist, the gasoline engine can also be used as a generator, recharging the battery during deceleration and braking. M35h address is redesigned with a more efficient electro-hydraulic operating in demand, not continuously.