between the I30 and the Nissan Maxima. This is no coincidence. The I30 is built from

the same platform as the Nissan Maxima and shares some of its electricals, mechanicals

and a fair share of its sheetmetal. This is not a negative because the Maxima is a

wonderful vehicle in its own right. However, the Maxima, option for option, will leave

a similar taste in your mouth for less money than the I30.

That aside, the I30 is an excellent vehicle with thoughtful luxury touches that

set it apart from its more pedestrian cousin. For example, its security system, which

comes standard, responds quietly and with a welcoming glow of interior cabin lights to

signal unlocking, or the polite flash of headlamps to confirm it has locked itself.No

honking horns for this car. If that's not enough, all the I30's security functions

are directed by the keyfob, which also has a built-in panic mode should you wish to

draw attention to yourself in a potentially troublesome situation. And on those

really hot days, you can even lower the front windows with the fob, permitting hot air

to escape from your vehicle. A nice touch.

The I30 comes in three trim levels: The Standard, the Leather Appointed and the

Touring, which we had the pleasure of sampling. If the base I30 is well appointed -

which it is - then the I30t is downright loaded. The I30t includes leather interior,

HomeLink, power everything and a CD player, and adds a Traction Enhancement System,

handsome 15" crosslace alloy wheels, meatier tires and a sleek spoiler. The I30t also

rewards the driver with upgrades underneath the car. The suspension has tuned a bit

firmer in order to respond to the demands of the more aggressive driver.

Safety equipment for the I30, no matter what trim level, is on par with the

segment and include crumple zones, side door beams, dual airbags and antilock brakes.

All I30s come standard with attractive, but rather bland exterior styling. The

Japanese have mastered the art of creating soothing and clean automobile lines without

offending anyone. The problem is they don't excite anyone either. While it may not

excite, the I30 does have classy, understated looks which come off elegant without

being ostentatious. The front end grillework echoes the Q45's, contributing to a

family resemblance while adding some luxury cachet.

A big part of the Infiniti mystique is the relationship they have their potential

and current customers. This approach to sales and service is embodied in a program

called The Total Ownership Experience. The showroom and service staffs act like hosts

and hostesses sporting gracious, low-key manners. Once you become an Infiniti owner,

the experience extends to 24-hour roadside assistance, which is free for 48 months,

even if your warranty has reached its mileage limitation.

When your car needs to be serviced or repaired, a loaner car will be made

available to you with little fuss. When your car is done, whether it be an oil change

or tune-up, it will be washed and vacuumed. A look at recent JD Power customer

satisfaction ratings will show that Infiniti's Total Ownership Program is producing

enviable results. If being treated like a king or queen is important to you, look no

further.