FRANKLIN, TN - Infiniti announced a $53,700 USD MSRP for the all-new 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid, which goes on sale March 16, 2011 at Infiniti retailers nationwide. The Infiniti M Hybrid offers a V-6 and more than 350 horsepower and 32 mpg fuel economy. Estimated fuel economy is 27 mpg City, 32 mpg Highway, with combined fuel economy rated at 29 mpg.

The 2012 Infiniti M performance luxury sedan is also offered in four non-hybrid models, which go on sale March 2, 2011. The non-hybrid Infiniti M has a starting MSRP of $47,700 USD for the Infiniti M37 RWD. The other models are the Infiniti M37 AWD ($49,850 USD), Infiniti M56 RWD ($59,100 USD), and Infiniti M56 AWD ($61,600 USD).

The Infiniti M Hybrid features the all-new Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system, a one-motor, two-clutch parallel hybrid design that utilizes precise, high-speed motor control technology enabled by the Lithium-ion battery, allowing power to be delivered directly to the vehicle’s 7-speed automatic transmission.

The Infiniti M Hybrid has the brand’s 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine, which paired with the 50 kW electric motor, provides a hybrid system net power of 360 horsepower. The V-6 offers 258 lb.-ft. of torque and the electric motor offers immediately available 199 lb.-ft.

In addition, the new Infiniti M Hybrid can drive on electric power alone at speeds up to 62 mph and can travel on electric propulsion for up to 1.2 miles at a time. Tests have shown that in mixed driving, the Infiniti M Hybrid is able to drive in electric only mode for as much as 50 percent of the time. Its compact hybrid system design makes room for interior and trunk space.

Safety features include Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Blind Spot Intervention (BSI), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems, Distance Control Assist (DCA), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts. It features a system called Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) for added safety. The vehicle also comes with a Bluetooth hands-free phone system to help reduce the effects of distracted driving and comply with cell-phone and texting laws in different states.

The rear-wheel drive Infiniti Hybrid comes in one model and features leather-appointed seats, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Active Noise Control, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately), Forest Air system, Active Trace Control, and Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, and a power sliding glass tinted moonroof. Other available features include Bose Studio Surround premium audio system, Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range).