Infiniti M

Importing a used Infiniti M from the USA

The Infiniti M is Nissan's luxury division's answer to the 5 Series and E-Class, and because Infiniti was never a mainstream brand in Germany, these cars are rare and interesting here. A used Infiniti M brings smooth V6 or V8 power, a well-equipped cabin and a distinctive design that stands apart from the usual German saloons. If you want an under-the-radar executive sedan with American-market specification, importing a used Infiniti M from the USA makes a lot of sense. USCar Trader is an independent broker for used vehicles: we source the car, verify its history and origin, and manage freight and clearance without holding stock or adding a vehicle margin.

From launch to today

The name covers two closely related generations. The Y50 M (2006–2010, US) offered the M35 and M45, sharing the FM platform with the G-series and the Nissan 350Z. The second generation, the Y51 M (2011–2013 as the M line), introduced the M37, M56 and the petrol-electric M35h hybrid, with a more flowing design and a richer interior. From the 2014 model year Infiniti renamed the car the Q70, so "M" specifically denotes the 2006–2013 cars — the sweet spot for import buyers who want the classic Infiniti sedan before the naming change.

Engines and drivetrain in detail

The first generation paired the 3.5-litre VQ35 V6 (around 275 hp) in the M35 with the 4.5-litre VK45 V8 (around 325 hp) in the M45. The second generation moved to the 3.7-litre VQ37VHR V6 (around 330 hp) in the M37 and the 5.6-litre VK56VD V8 (around 420 hp) in the M56 — a genuinely quick, torque-rich engine. The M35h combined a 3.5-litre V6 with an electric motor for strong performance and better economy. All used a smooth 7-speed automatic, with rear-wheel drive standard and intelligent all-wheel drive (M37x/M56x) optional — the AWD cars are especially worth seeking for German winters.

Trim levels and variants

The M is a four-door executive saloon only. US trims centred on the base car plus option packages: Premium, Sport, Technology and Deluxe Touring. The Sport package brought bigger wheels, sport seats, paddle shifters and firmer suspension; the Technology package added adaptive cruise, lane-departure prevention and around-view cameras that were advanced for their time. Higher cars featured semi-aniline leather, a Bose surround system and forest-air climate control.

Used availability in the USA

Infiniti M sedans were sold in solid numbers across the US, so the used pool is healthy and varied. Typical import candidates are 2011–2013 M37 and M56 cars showing 60,000–130,000 miles (roughly 100,000–210,000 km), often well-equipped because American buyers favoured the option packages. Many were one- or two-owner cars serviced at Infiniti dealers. Southern and western examples are corrosion-free; salt-belt cars should be checked underneath. The V8 M56 is scarcer than the V6 M37 but rewards the search.

When importing makes sense

This suits the buyer who wants an executive saloon with real character and rarity value, away from the common German choices. The M37x AWD is a fine all-weather cruiser; the M56 is for those who want V8 pace and sound; the M35h appeals to buyers wanting hybrid efficiency in a full-size sedan. It rewards drivers who enjoy the VQ and VK engines and who value a comprehensively equipped, comfortable long-distance car.

Facts and figures

Reliability and common problems

Infiniti M reliability is generally strong, helped by proven Nissan engines. Known Infiniti M common problems include timing chain tensioner wear on high-mileage VQ engines (listen for rattle at cold start), and the VVEL system on the VQ37 can develop actuator noise and needs the correct oil. The VK56 V8 is robust but should have documented oil changes. The 7-speed automatic is durable if the fluid has been serviced. Watch the electronic dampers on Sport cars, the around-view cameras, and the brake actuator on the M35h hybrid. Interior trim and the Bose system are usually reliable. As with any used luxury sedan, a car with a full service history and clean history report is far preferable to a cheap, undocumented one.

How US versions differ

Because Infiniti barely existed in Germany, parts and dealer support differ from the US, though the underlying Nissan mechanicals ease servicing. US cars have mph speedometers, US-market lighting with amber rear indicators and no rear fog lamp, and US navigation data. Some driver-assistance features are calibrated for US roads. There is no European CoC, so an individual approval is required before registration.

From US purchase to registration

The sequence is clear. First, selection to your brief — engine, drive, trim and budget. Second, a VIN and origin check with a Carfax or AutoCheck history. Third, escrow payment so funds release only on clean documents. Fourth, inland transport to port and ocean freight to a European port such as Bremerhaven. Fifth, EU customs clearance. Sixth, a TÜV inspection and individual approval (Einzelabnahme) under §21 StVZO with the required emissions checks. Finally, registration at your local authority.

Costs, duty and taxes at a glance

Bottom line: what matters is the factory shown by the VIN – proven US origin unlocks 0% duty. The 19% import VAT always applies.

Two charges apply and are always shown separately. Import duty depends on the car's actual country of origin; the Infiniti M was built in Japan, so it would generally not qualify for the temporary 0% US-origin rate — that 0% under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 applies only to cars with provable US origin shipped directly between 1 July 2026 and 31 December 2029. A Japanese-built M is therefore assessed at the standard car duty rate on its customs value. In every case, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) is charged separately on the customs value. USCar Trader passes all official charges through at cost, adds no margin and never guarantees a duty outcome before the VIN is verified.

TÜV, approval and license plates

Typical work for German approval includes adding a red rear fog lamp, adjusting or converting the headlights for right-hand traffic, and confirming compliant indicators. The odometer reading in miles is documented. On the hybrid, the high-voltage system is checked. With no CoC, the individual approval covers the emissions and safety requirements before the car can be registered.

Pre-purchase checklist

Before buying, confirm: (1) VIN decode and country of origin — usually Japan — for correct customs treatment; (2) a Carfax or AutoCheck report free of salvage, flood or accident flags; (3) underbody inspection for salt-belt rust; (4) full service history, especially timing chain and VVEL condition on the V6; (5) transmission fluid service records; (6) electronic dampers and cameras working on optioned cars; (7) clean, transferable title with no lien.

Import FAQ

Is the Infiniti M the same as the Q70?

Yes in lineage — Infiniti renamed the M as the Q70 from 2014, so the M badge covers the 2006–2013 cars.

Which engine should I choose?

The M37 V6 is the balanced everyday choice; the M56 V8 offers strong performance; the M35h suits buyers wanting hybrid economy.

Is all-wheel drive available?

Yes — M37x and M56x cars have intelligent AWD, which is well worth seeking for winter use.

Will it qualify for 0% import duty?

Usually not, because the M was built in Japan; the standard duty rate applies, and the 19% import VAT always applies.

How reliable is the Infiniti M?

Generally reliable thanks to proven Nissan engines; watch timing chain and VVEL condition on the V6 and keep the automatic serviced.

Are parts hard to get in Germany?

Infiniti-specific parts can take longer, but the shared Nissan mechanicals make routine servicing manageable.

What mileage is sensible to import?

Most good candidates sit between 60,000 and 130,000 miles with documented maintenance.

What has to change for TÜV?

Primarily the rear fog lamp, headlight conversion for right-hand traffic and compliant indicators.

USCar Trader can source and import one for you. See Infiniti in the Carhub, compare related models such as the Q50, the Q60 Coupe and the FX, or view current Infiniti M listings.