After 10 minutes behind the wheel of the 2012 Infiniti M35h, one thing becomes crystal clear: Infiniti engineers must despise hybrids. Rocketing up the twisting, hilly side streets of West Hollywood, this car sure doesn't feel like the next-door science teacher's hybrid. It's got gobs of rich, torquey power and an audible growl from its twin chrome exhaust tips. It even handles well and drives -- dare we say it? -- almost like a sports sedan. So what gives?
The M35h is Infiniti's first foray into hybrid waters, and it's obvious the brand wants to do things a little differently. Slotting into Infiniti's flagship M series lineup between the entry-level, six-cylinder M37 and the range-topping , V-8-powered M56, the M hybrid gives buyers more power than the former and better fuel economy than either. With a total of 360 net horsepower between gasoline and electric propulsion systems, the M35h still achieves a combined fuel economy rating of 29 mpg (broken down as 27 city/32 highway). Those impressive numbers easily top the rear-drive M37's 18/26 mpg rating.

Infiniti's Direct Response Hybrid system is exclusive to the brand, and lies at the heart of the M35h. Developed completely in-house, the system boasts a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V-6 with 302-horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, a 50 kW electric motor, and two clutches, one dry and one wet. The dry clutch is positioned between the gasoline engine and electric motor, allowing independent operation of each, which helps increase overall efficiency. The wet clutch sits at the tail end of the M35h's seven-speed automatic transmission, nixing the need for a conventional torque converter. The setup saves weight and helps provide a crisper response from the gearbox.
A lithium-ion battery pack stashed behind the rear seat powers the electric motor, reducing available luggage space from 14.9 to 11.3 cubic-feet -- still enough room to carry up to four golf bags or two large suitcases, Infiniti says. In addition to powering the drive wheels with or without electrical assistance, the gasoline engine can also be used as a generator, recharging the battery pack during deceleration and braking. The M35h's steering is redesigned with a more efficient electro-hydraulic system that operates on demand, not continuously.