- Filed under: Infiniti
Infiniti Essence Concept
- Click above for a high-res image gallery
When Infiniti decides to tackle a new market, it sure knows how to make an entrance. At the Geneva Motor Show in March, the gas-electric hybrid Essence made jaws drop with its commanding size, beautiful lines, and green-inspired 592-hp soul. Unfortunately for every man, woman and child on the face of the earth, the Essence won't make its way to production -- ever -- but it's actually going to be driven in the UK... briefly.
Infiniti's voluptuous concept will make an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it'll make the run the hill climb and be joined at the FoS-TECH pavilion by the world's first right-hand-drive G37 convertible . While we're more than a little disappointed that the Essence will never hit production, if the concept's handsome design makes its way into other Infinitis, it'd be a good start. Press release below the fold.
[Source: Infiniti]Continue reading Infiniti Essence concept to run the Goodwood Hillclimb
Infiniti Essence concept to run the Goodwood Hillclimb originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Jun 2009 17:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Trends, Etc., Plants/Manufacturing, Cadillac, Honda, Infiniti, Lexus, Porsche, Suzuki
Click above for a gallery of the graphtastic images from J.D. Power and Associates
J.D. Power and Associates has released its 2009 Initial Quality Study (IQS) and Lexus has taken the top spot away from Porsche, the initial quality leader for the past three years. The annual J.D. Power study measures IQS based on problems reported per 100 vehicles (PP100) -- a lower score means a lower rate of problem incidences and higher quality.
This year, the industry average is 108 PP100, demonstrating a steady improvement from 118 PP100 in 2008, and 125 PP100 in 2007.
In addition to the marked improvement by the industry overall, many brands continued to perform well in 2009. Following Lexus and Porsche is Cadillac (which moves from 10th rank position in 2008 to third in 2009), Hyundai (jumping from 13th rank position in 2008 to 4th in 2009) and Honda (up from 7th in 2008 to 5th in 2009). Infiniti, second in last year's study, drops to 11th overall, while Suzuki posts the largest improvement in ranking, moving from 32nd place in 2008 to 9th in 2009. The complete J.D. Power press release and charts can be found after the jump and in the gallery below.
[Source: J.D. Power and Associates]Continue reading Lexus leads, Hyundai improves, while Infiniti drops in J.D. Power 2009 Initial Quality Study
Lexus leads, Hyundai improves, while Infiniti drops in J.D. Power 2009 Initial Quality Study originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Japan, Tokyo Motor Show, Infiniti, Nissan
The JDM Nissan Fuga is due for a comprehensive overhaul, and according to a report by Japan's Holiday Auto, we can expect to see the redesigned sedan at this fall's Tokyo Motor Show.
The sketches above were inspired by a recent batch of spy shots and as expected, the Fuga - which serves as the basis for the Infiniti M in the States - will undergo a thorough exterior makeover, taking cues from the Essence concept shown at the Geneva Motor Show. The headlamps will continue to be stretched further over the fenders, while the taillights and bumper will be more smoothly integrated into the bulbous rump. We're hoping the most interesting element of the Essence - the curved, creased and indented C-pillar - will make a successful transition from concept to production. Expect the Fuga to go on sale in Japan early next year, with the fully-redesigned Infiniti M to debut soon thereafter.
[Source: Holiday Auto via 7Tune]REPORT: Next Nissan Fuga to debut in Tokyo, foretells Infiniti M's future originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Car Buying, Convertibles, Infiniti
2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery
As our First Drive revealed, Infiniti's first folding tin-top is a decent performer and markedly more attractive in appearance than its Germanic competition. And now that pricing has been revealed, the 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible just got a bit more desirable. The seven-speed, automatic-equipped model starts at $43,850, while the six-speed manual model (6MT in Infiniti parlance) with its standard Sport package comes in at $43,900 (both excludes $865 destination and handling). Just for comparison's sake, the BMW 328i starts at $44,550, while the hotter, twin-turbocharged 335i commands $50,700 for the privilege.
Package pricing is listed in detail below the fold, but for $3,250, the automatic model can be outfitted with the Premium setup, while opting for the Sport 6MT saves you $200 on the same package. Navigation and Technology packages will set you back $1,850 and $1,150, respectively, but if it came time to use our money, we'd just tick the box for the Sport ($1,350 with Premium, $1,550 without) and Performance Tire and Package for $650, along with the "R Spec High Friction" brake pads ($370). Make the jump to start specing your G37 Convertible before it goes on sale June 19th.
Continue reading 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible starting at $43,850
2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible starting at $43,850 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Car Buying, SUVs, Infiniti
2008 (2009, and 2010) Infiniti QX56 - Click above for a high-res image gallery
Infiniti has announced pricing on the 2010 QX56 full-size luxury SUV. Essentially a carry-over of the model that was last updated in 2008, the base MSRP for the 2WD model is $56,050 (*plus destination and handling of $865), while the 4WD model arrives at $59,150. Loyalists of the brand will recognize this as a $1,000 bump in pricing when compared to last year's model.
All QX56 models share a 320-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. As has always been the case, the flagship truck arrives heavily laden with technology and creature comforts, leaving just a few items on the options list. These include a Technology Package ($1,150), Mobile Entertainment Package ($1,700), and the Tow Package ($350). A split bench seat package is a no-cost option. Infiniti dealers will also gladly sell you splash guards, wind deflectors, and chrome lashes for everything but the front windshield. Check out the press release after the jump.
[Source: Nissan]Continue reading Nissan slaps $56,915* Monroney on 2010 QX56
Nissan slaps $56,915* Monroney on 2010 QX56 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 May 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Japan, Crossovers/CUVs, Infiniti, Nissan
Nissan Skyline Crossover - Click above for a hi-res gallery
Enthusiasts couldn't help but be disappointed when Nissan let slip that plans for a new Infiniti flagship sedan based on the all-conquering GT-R wouldn't see the light of day. What you see here is just the opposite: an Infiniti re-labeled as a Skyline.
Truth be told, although the previous Skyline GT-R was one model, the two nameplates have been separated for years now in the Japanese domestic market: The Japanese domestic market Skyline is what we know as the Infiniti G37 coupe and sedan (like the G35 before it). What you see here, then, is just more of the same: the Nissan Skyline Crossover, an exercise in badge engineering to bring the niche model Infiniti EX crossover back home.
Nissan has released little in the way of details, but don't expect any big changes over the Euro-spec EX37, with the latest VQ37VHR version of the company's highly-rated V6 offering up 310 horsepower. So if you've ever woken up in a cold sweat wondering what an Infiniti EX would look like with a Nissan badge on its grille, check out the pair of images below, along with the press release after the jump.
Gallery: Nissan Skyline Crossover (JDM)
[Source: Nissan]Continue reading EX Phone Home: Nissan rebadges Infiniti EX as Skyline Crossover for JDM
EX Phone Home: Nissan rebadges Infiniti EX as Skyline Crossover for JDM originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Convertibles, Infiniti, First Drive
2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery
As enthusiasts, many of us are quick to dismiss convertibles as the preferred conveyance for hapless poseurs (BMW M3 cabrio) or fake-bake hairdressers (Toyota Solara). And with good reason. When you lop the top off a coupe, the result is often a floppy, overweight chassis that provides all the dynamic delights of a rubber nine-iron and a granite golf ball. Such executions fail to please on almost every level, and that's before you start dealing with complex roof mechanisms, awkwardly styled rumps and abysmal trunk space.
As a whole, convertibles aren't for everyone, but they do fill a need and a niche. And they sell. Almost half of all two-door BMW 3 series models are purchased with a retractable roof, and it's a segment that Infiniti hasn't played in for years (anyone remember the M30 convertible?). As Nissan's luxury arm continues to push into the European market, it's back in the game with the 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible. But who is it for? Someone who's simultaneously sultry yet demure; assertive yet relaxed; commanding yet delicate. Someone compelling. Someone like Moneypenny.
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible, MI6's sultry secretary has a new ride
First Drive: 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible, MI6's sultry secretary has a new ride originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Japan, Infiniti, Nissan
Any hope of a Nissan GT-R-powered flagship from Infiniti have been officially dashed. According to Brian Carolin, Nissan's Senior Veep of Sales and Marketing, "It's fair to say that there's nothing in the product plan for a flagship right now. It's just not a priority in today's climate."
Rumors of a new sedan packing the GT-R's twin-turbocharged V6 and all-wheel drive system have been circulating for over a year, and when the Infiniti Essence concept debuted at the Geneva Motor Show this year, speculation began anew. The initial thought was Infiniti would bring a flagship coupe to market in favor of a sedan, but now, both plans have been shelved due to the current economic crisis and the subsequent downward spiral of luxury vehicle sales.
Carolin told Inside Line that dealers would have fallen all over each other for a new flagship last year, but "now it's way down on their wish list."
[Source: InsideLine | Image: Holiday Auto]GT-R-powered Infiniti flagship officially canned originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Infiniti
Infiniti Essence Concept - Click above for a high-res gallery
Some concept cars are design studies, while others closely preview production models. But as much as we may have hoped, the gorgeous Essence concept unveiled by Infiniti earlier this month at the Geneva Motor Show will remain firmly in the former, as company spokesmen have reportedly verified that the show-stopping show car will not be entering production.
Alright, so that may be no big surprise, but we're allowed to dream, aren't we? That doesn't mean elements previewed by the Essence won't be trickling down to production models. We certainly hope some of the breathtaking design will find its way into production sheetmetal, and reports suggest that the quirky kink in the C pillar could appear on future products from the premium Nissan division. The long-awaited successor to the flagship Q45, if produced, is tipped to borrow heavily from the Essence's design, while its concept drivetrain is expected to lead the way for a hybrid M as well. So while the show car itself will remain a glimmering memory, its bits and pieces will, in essence, resurface in future Infiniti products.
[Source: AutoWeek.nl]Infiniti will not produce show car, but its Essence will live on originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Sedans/Saloons, Green, Infiniti, Nissan
Nissan and Infiniti have been lagging when it comes to bringing gas-electric models to market, with the exception of the Altima Hybrid which relies on a system borrowed from Toyota. According to a report by the Nikkei business daily in Japan, that's set to change when Infiniti begins offering a hybrid version of the M sedan in 2010.
As previewed in August, the system differs from "conventional" hybrids on the market by using advanced lithium-ion batteries that boast more power and quicker recharge times. Additionally, the parallel hybrid system is equipped with one electric motor and two clutches to allow the gas engine and electric motor to drive the rear wheels simultaneously. Acceleration and response is expected to be more performance oriented - previewed in the Essence concept at the Geneva Motor Show - while a trio of driving modes will allow the M to run on electric power at low speeds, a combination of electric and gas propulsion when under load and gas-only when traveling at speed. Direct injection is also rumored for the next generation of models, bringing Infiniti on par - and beyond - its competitors.
[Source: Nikkei via BusinessWeek]REPORT: Infiniti M hybrid coming in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, SUVs, Infiniti
Infiniti Essence Concept - Click above for a high-res gallery
According to Car and Driver, Infiniti is readying a direct-injection system for its 3.7-liter V6 and plans to implement it on the refreshed G37 coupe and sedan before the redesigned G arrives in the next three years. A variant of the twin-turbocharged, 3.7-liter direct-injected V6 originally shown in the Essence concept will likely appear in the redesigned M - due in 2010 - and will reportedly put out between 340 and 350 horsepower, but it will not be fitted with the duo of turbos.
While Infiniti recognizes that it could use a successor to the Q45 (the company's slow-selling full-size sedan last roamed U.S. showrooms in 2006) to compete with the likes of Audi, BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz, the project may be stifled by the floundering economy. Infiniti dealers were evidently shown a concept in Japan earlier this year, assumed to be the next Q, which was essentially a four-door version of the Essence concept that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show. At this point, its future is uncertain.
Larry Dominique, Infiniti's veep of product planning in the U.S., wants to make sure that the automaker's resources are focused on its core products - namely the G and M series - but admitted that a QX56 replacement is in the works and will likely debut after 2010 once the redesigned Armada is released.
[Source: Car and Driver]Direct-injected VQ engines coming from Infiniti, Q45 successor on the ropes? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupes, Hybrids/Alternative, Geneva Motor Show, Green, Tech, Videos, Infiniti
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Infiniti Essence Concept
Infiniti is looking to make a big splash as it enters the European market at an unfortunate economic moment, and not much can tug at the heartstrings of the continent's populace like a high-powered, sexy coupe with a green soul. With the Essence concept, Nissan's upscale brand has delivered in a big way. The sultry cab-backwards coupe is nothing if not dramatically indulgent in its scale (it's a commanding 4.7-meters long), and the rear-drive, gas-electric hybrid is something to behold in the metal, with elements that recall other coupes (the Fisker Karma comes to mind), but a look all its own.
Powered by a twin-turbo, direct-injection 3.7-liter V6 and a new electric drive design dubbed "3D Motor", the Essence yields a combined 592 brake horsepower (434 via internal-combustion, 158 brake horsepower via the lithium-ion backed disc-shaped electric motor).
The very unjapanese scale of the Essence yields a more Nippon-influenced interior for two, including an attractive driver-oriented "cocoon" that features a flat-bottomed steering wheel, hand-painted wood designed to look like Japanese laquerware and eccentricities like asymmetrical seat seams that mimic the way 'Japanese men and women tie their kimonos." Presumably, said kimonos fit nicely in the bespoke Louis Vuitton luggage (made more accessible via a powered trunk shelf).
Click on the jump to watch a video of the Essence in motion, as well specs and a press release including details on the coupe's next-generation Safety Shield side collision prevention and back-up collision prevention technology.
Continue reading Geneva 2009: Consider The Show Stopped - Infiniti rolls out its Essence on a grand scale
Geneva 2009: Consider The Show Stopped - Infiniti rolls out its Essence on a grand scale originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 06:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Coupes, Sports/GTs, Hyundai, Infiniti
While we're working on our own shoot-out between the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and a yet-to-be-named contender, the crew at Inside Line put Hyundai's new rear-wheel-drive two-door against one of its strongest opponents: the Infiniti G37.
IL's 3.8-liter V6 Genesis Coupe tester came equipped with the Track pack, which includes a stiffer suspension, limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes and 19-inch wheels, along with the standard six-speed manual. The sticker? $30,375, or $6,625 less than a base model Infiniti G37. For the extra scratch, the Infiniti is a more luxurious package and carries a bit of badge snobbery, but performance and driver engagement are the metrics we're interested in and the Hyundai proved to be a serious contender.
The G is packing more power from less displacement (330 vs. 306 hp), a bit more torque (270 vs. 266 lb-ft) and revs higher (7,600 vs. 6,800 rpm). But it's also packing the pounds. The Infiniti tips the scales at 3,709 pounds, while the Genesis Coupe comes in just under 3,500 pounds.
IL performed its usual battery of tests, along with a dyno run, and deemed the G37 a better vehicle on the road from both a driving and livability standpoint, but gave props to the Genesis for its competence on the track and predictable handling characteristics. Both cars were remarkably close in the performance department, with the Hyundai taking the win on the skid-pad, while falling short on the sprint to 60, quarter-mile time and slalom run.
IL's conclusion: For two-thirds the cost of the Infiniti G37, the Genesis Coupe 3.8 gives you more bang for the buck and deserves a place on any enthusiast's short-list. Look out for our own review - including the 2.0T model - soon, but in the meantime, read IL's full comparo here.Hyundai Genesis Coupe V6 beats out Infiniti G37 in first comparison test originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Sedans/Saloons, Infiniti
Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2009 Infiniti M35
The traditional definition of a Q-ship is a vessel that appears harmless, yet harbors deadly weaponry. Infiniti's M-series fits that description rather well. Around since 2006, the M35 isn't new to the scene, but for 2009, the M has emerged from dry-dock with a series of upgrades to help lure buyers away from its Germanic competition. Previous battles have proven that The New doesn't always emerge victorious when undertaking sneak attacks, and the M35 ambushed us straightaway.
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Dan Roth / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Infiniti M35
In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Infiniti M35 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Infiniti
Infiniti's aiming to make a big splash with its foray into the European market, but it's going to be an uphill battle against the continent's established native luxury brands. That's why the premium Nissan brand has teamed up with one of Europe's most renowned names in luxury products, Louis Vuitton, to produce a new concept car to be unveiled at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.
So far, all we know is that Louis Vuitton has created a special set of luggage for the concept, but Infiniti has now revealed its name - Essence - and released the teaser image you see above. And wow, is that one sick...um, A-pillar, maybe? Hard to say, but we'll know more over the course of the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned, or follow the jump for the press release.
[Source: Infiniti]Continue reading The Essence of Infiniti: new teaser emerges of Geneva show car
The Essence of Infiniti: new teaser emerges of Geneva show car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Archive for the 'INFINITI' Category
Tuesday, February 27th, 2007
 
Complaint: The lane-departure warning system is an option that should be avoided. It is more annoying than it is protective with its incessant chirping. It becomes maddening on roads under repair or reconstruction where lane markings are redundant or poorly drawn.
Ride, acceleration and handling: Excellent in all three categories. The M45 Sport is one of the hottest dark horses in the luxury-car race –wonderfully quick off the mark, steady as all get-out at highway speeds, and nimble and responsive in curves and accident-avoidance maneuvers. In short, it’s remarkably graceful for a car weighing 4,032 pounds.
Head-turning quotient: Bold, deliberately masculine and sinewy.
Body style/layout: The Infiniti M45 Sport is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, mid-size luxury sport sedan that sits at the top of Infiniti’s M-series line. Other models include the M45 Base, M35 Base, M35 Sport and the all-wheel-drive M3 X. There is no all-wheel-drive version of the M45 at this writing.
Engine/transmission: The M45 Sport comes with a 4.5-liter (thus the “M45′ moniker) V-8 engine that develops 325 horsepower at 6,400 revolutions per minute and 336 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is linked to a five-speed automatic transmission that also can be shifted manually.
Capacities: There is seating for five. Maximum cargo capacity is 15 cubic feet. The fuel tank holds 20 gallons of required premium unleaded gasoline.
Mileage: We averaged 23 miles per gallon in highway travel–not exactly award-winning fuel economy, especially at premium gasoline prices.
Safety: Electronic stability and traction control are standard, as are four-wheel antilock brakes, side and head air bags.
Price: Base price on the 2007 Infiniti M45 Sport is $50,500. Dealer’s invoice price on base model is $36,438. Price as tested is $53,570, including $2,500 in options (navigation system, backup camera, lane departure warning system and XM Satellite Radio) and a $700 destination charge. Prices sourced from Infiniti and www.edmunds.com.
Purse-strings note: It’s cheaper than a long-term relationship with a shrink. Compare with Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Lexus GS 430, Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Automotive News, INFINITI | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 21st, 2004
Details info: Alternative names:
Infiniti FX-series SUV 5d
Sales Company:
Available version:
FX35 - 3.5 V6 24v 4wd aut.
FX35 - 3.5 V6 24v aut.
FX45 - 4.5 V8 32v 4wd aut.
Previous version:
Variation:
SUV 5d
(2002 - )
Info:
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
Posted in INFINITI | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 21st, 2004
Details info: Alternative names:
Infiniti QX56 SUV 5d
Sales Company:
Available version:
QX56 - 5.6 V8 32v 4wd
QX56 - 5.6 V8 32v
Previous version:
Variation:
SUV 5d
(2004 - )
Nissan (United States of America) Armada
Info:
Luxury version of the Nissan Pathfinder Armada
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
Nissan - Armada SUV 5d
Posted in INFINITI | No Comments »
Monday, December 20th, 2004
Details info: Alternative names:
Infiniti Q45 (Infiniti - United States of America)
Cima (2004-) (Nissan - People\’s Republic of China)
Nissan Cima (F50) Limousine 4d
Sales Company:
Infiniti (United States of America)
Nissan (People\’s Republic of China)
Available version:
3.0 V6 24v Turbo aut.
4.5 V8 32v aut.
4.5 V8 32v aut. 4WD
Previous version:
Variation:
Limousine 4d
Info:
This is Nissan’s highest-end luxury sedan. The company introduced the redesigned Cima in January 2001. The current model is the fourth-generation model. The Cima, known as Infiniti Q45 in the USA, is powered by a 4.5-liter V8, or 3.0-liter V6 engine, featuring dynamic yet elegant driving. Multi-projector headlamps highlight the inspiring mask.
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
Posted in INFINITI | No Comments »
Monday, December 20th, 2004
Posted in INFINITI | No Comments »
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