2012 INFINITI M: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2012 INFINITI M

The biggest change for the 2012 INFINITI M is the arrival of the M35h, the lineup’s first gasoline-electric model. The M37 and M56 gas models otherwise receive only light refinements after their 2011 redesign.

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About the 2012 INFINITI M

Second year of the 2011 redesign for the INFINITI M sedan.

INFINITI positioned the M as a performance luxury sedan first and a comfort car second. Its core appeal was strong straight-line power, a driver-focused feel, rich cabin materials, and a long list of upscale technology. Against rivals, the M leaned harder into horsepower and sporty response than soft isolation, while the M35h hybrid broadened the formula with much better fuel economy without giving up quick acceleration.

The 2012 M lineup spans the 330-hp V6 M37, the new 360-hp M35h hybrid, and the 420-hp V8 M56. The M37x and M56x add all-wheel drive for poor-weather traction. The M56 models also make navigation, Bose audio, climate-controlled front seats, and a heated steering wheel standard.

What changed, by category

Powertrain
The new M35h pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with a 50-kW electric motor for 360 net horsepower. It uses a seven-speed automatic, regenerative braking, and hybrid-specific electric power steering; the M37 and M56 powertrains otherwise carry over.

2012 INFINITI M specs and features by trim

2012 INFINITI MM371 in stock
2012 INFINITI MM560 in stock
2012 INFINITI MM35h0 in stock
2012 INFINITI MM37x0 in stock
2012 INFINITI MM56x0 in stock
EngineV6, 3.7 LiterV8, 5.6 LiterV6, Hybrid, 3.5 LiterV6, 3.7 LiterV8, 5.6 Liter
TransmissionAutomatic, 7-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual ModeAutomatic, 7-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual ModeAutomatic, 7-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual ModeAutomatic, 7-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual ModeAutomatic, 7-Spd w/Overdrive & Manual Mode
DrivetrainRWDRWDRWDAWDAWD
Fuel TypeGasGasHybridGasGas
MPG City18 mpg16 mpg27 mpg17 mpg16 mpg
MPG Highway26 mpg24 mpg32 mpg24 mpg23 mpg
Horsepower330 hp420 hp360 hp330 hp420 hp
Torque270 lb-ft417 lb-ft258 lb-ft270 lb-ft417 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo14.9 cu-ft14.9 cu-ft11.3 cu-ft14.9 cu-ft14.9 cu-ft
Rear Legroom36.2 in36.2 in36.2 in36.2 in36.2 in
Seats55555
Doors44444
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Blindspot Sensors
Active Lane Keep Assistance
Rear View Camera
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
LED Tail Lights
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Bluetooth
Built-In Hard Drive
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
USB Ports
Cooled Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start

How the 2013 INFINITI M compares

The 2013 INFINITI M is a light equipment update, led by standard auto-dimming outside mirrors and an automatic trunk-closing cincher across the lineup. Its engines, transmissions, drivetrains, and Y51-generation body carry over from 2012.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2012 INFINITI M compared with the 2011 model?

The main change for 2012 is the addition of the M35h hybrid. The M37 and M56 gas models largely carry over, with no major exterior, cabin, or chassis overhaul.

Is the 2012 INFINITI M35h a hybrid?

Yes. The 2012 M35h combines a 3.5-liter V6 with a 50-kW electric motor, producing 360 net horsepower through a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Was the 2012 INFINITI M redesigned?

No. The 2012 INFINITI M is the second model year of the redesign introduced for 2011. Its headline update is the new M35h hybrid rather than a new body, cabin, or chassis.

Is the 2012 INFINITI M worth considering over the 2011 model?

Yes, if the M35h hybrid appeals to you; it is the key reason to favor 2012. Shoppers considering an M37 or M56 will find those gas models largely unchanged from 2011.

Which 2012 INFINITI M models have all-wheel drive?

The 2012 M37x and M56x have all-wheel drive. The M37x uses the 330-hp V6, while the M56x pairs all-wheel drive with the 420-hp V8.

Sources