Don't let the name fool you. This is a first look at the 2005 Infiniti M45, which is bigger, roomier and arguably better looking than the car its replaces. Built on the new FM-L (front midship, large) rear-drive platform, it is to the G35 what the Audi A6 is to the A4. All-wheel-drive will be an option and the 4.5-liter V-8 should be standard. The Fuga demonstrated several emerging Nissan technologies, such as Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), a lane-keeping support system, Intelligent Brake Assist, Brake-operated Pre-crash Seatbelts, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). The interior features proposals for new information technology and controls, as well as seat-integrated stereo speakers. Nissan says the next Infiniti flagship might not be a Q45 sedan replacement, and hints that the Skyline GT-R supercar that appeared as a concept in '01 could be the next flagship. And now the bad news: the GT-R won't launch until calendar year 2007.
