Infiniti gave a virtual sneak peak into the third-generation M luxury sedan. The vehicle shown was not the physical car, but a 3D rendition of it. The actual vehicle will debut later this year.

The M56 will be powered by a V8 engine that is expected to offer more than 400 hp. The M37 with be fitted with a V6. Infiniti claims fuel consumption will be reduced even with the increase in engine performance. The current generation M gets 19 mpg overall.

The M is completely redesigned for 2011 with a lower front end and sports sedan proportions. In addition, the vehicle will now offer a blind spot intervention system. Available on other upscale sedans like the Volvo S80, Buick Lucerne, and Cadillac DTS and STS, the safety system will alert drivers of the presence of adjacent vehicles if they are intending to change lanes.

In our tests, the M is a top performer in its class. The current generation M35, with its 3.5-liter V6, is quick, strong and agile with a roomy and well designed interior. We’ll see if the next generation M will stay at the top of the class when we put it through our tests.

The 2011 Infiniti M will arrive at dealerships in the spring of 2010. More details will be announced in December.

—Liza Barth