Since there is a lot of confusion on what the snow mode does and what the sport does and etc... etc... I thought I would post this useful information for reference, since it is well explained on the M's Infiniti Drive Mode Selector. *Note, the references of Steering, Throttle and Shifts, there is no reference of locking differentials.

2011 Infiniti M introduces a technology that lets drivers vary the vehicle’s responsiveness to suit their preference.


The Infiniti Drive Mode Selector allows drivers to select a driving experience that fits the needs and desires of the moment, whether it is to accommodate everyday driving needs, to drive in snowy conditions, to enhance fuel efficiency, or to create a sportier driving experience.


Drivers can adjust the vehicle’s performance behavior to suit their desired driving preference.

Drivers use a 4-position switch located on the center console that can adjust throttle sensitivity, transmission shift schedule, and, in some cases, steering response. Here’s how it works.

Standard Mode

Standard mode sets throttle sensitivity and the transmission shift schedule to provide the balance of responsiveness and fuel efficiency appropriate for everyday driving conditions.

Eco Mode

Eco — or economy — mode helps increase fuel efficiency by reducing throttle sensitivity and scheduling the transmission shift points at lower engine rpm. An Eco light in the instrument gauges provides visual feedback on whether the driver is driving in a fuel-efficient manner. Green indicates economical driving. If the driver applies more throttle, the light starts to blink and then turns amber to indicate less economical driving.

The optional Eco pedal enhances the Eco mode by providing feedback that drivers can feel. This special accelerator pedal provides feedback to encourage more fuel-efficient driving. Pushing harder on the pedal overrides the system. Drivers can change the firmness of the pedal or turn the feature off using the Settings menu in the Vehicle Information System.

Sport Mode

Sport mode allows for sportier acceleration and shifting by increasing throttle sensitivity and scheduling the transmission shift points at higher engine rpm. Sport mode also adjusts the available 4-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS) for a more nimble feel, and it reduces the amount of braking provided by the available Active Trace Control.

Snow Mode

Snow mode reduces throttle sensitivity to help the driver control power output to avoid spinning the wheels when accelerating in snowy conditions.

Using Infiniti Drive

When a mode is selected, its name appears briefly in the LCD screen in the instrument panel. Drivers can determine which mode they’re in by looking at the selector on the center console. When the ignition is turned on, the system activates the last mode selected.

 

Thanks for the info, they may come in handy someday .....

 

its only on the 2011-2012 M's

 

I have used snow mode over the weekend - did pretty well on my 2011 M37s but was only 1 inch of snow.

Also went to sport mode for a roll on - dry road - it allows for the rear wheels spinning and seems to disable traction control.