Making hardly a splash in the luxury car segment, but more than worth mentioning, is the introduction of the brand-new Infiniti M45, intended to fill the space between the $30K-$40K G35 "near-luxury" sedan and the stately $50K-$60K Q45 sedan.

Boasting the 340-hp 4.5-liter V-8 from the Q surrounded by a smaller, more tightly dimensioned body, the M45 offers stellar acceleration and nimble handling. And you better want a V-8 and an automatic transmission, as there are no other powertrain options.

Now, about that more tightly dimensioned body…if you're not overwhelmed by its styling, you're not alone. Especially considering the knockout looks of the smaller G35 sedan and sport coupes, the styling of the milquetoast M is somewhat disappointing. That said, styling is a subjective thing, and truthfully, with all that power available to your right foot, below-the-radar styling could be a good thing indeed.

Interior styling is better, with flair and substance akin to that of the larger Q45. A large LCD screen dominates the prominent center stack, and a Bose audio system with a 6-disc in-dash CD player provides the entertainment. A technology package adds surprise-and delight extras like voice-activated HVAC, navigation and audio controls, as well as laser-guided speed control.