Infiniti will be adding more firepower in its attempt to muscle into the premium market, and the weapons will be a ‘revolutionary’ new petrol engine that combines V6 power with diesel economy. There will also be a new mid-size global crossover that will replace the long in the tooth QX50, Autocar reports.
Also in the works are greater levels of driver assistance and autonomy on its full range of vehicles between now and 2020. The company lays claim to be the first to launch Lane Keep Assist (in 2001) and Lane Departure Warning (in 2004), as well as the autonomy-friendly ‘steer by wire’ system from 2014.
Not much is known about the new engine for now, but the UK mag understands that it will feature a potentially world’s first variable compression ratio technology, and the motor is close to production. The new engine, which is said to offer high levels of refinement, will power the new crossover.
The ‘new QX50’ was previewed by the QX Sport Inspiration concept that was revealed earlier this year at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show. The production car is expected to surface late 2017 or early 2018.
Nissan’s premium brand has just completed its best ever first half in Europe, with 9,535 vehicles sold, 177% up year-on-year. Both the new Q30 hatchback and QX30 small crossover, based on the Mercedes-Benz A-Class’ platform, are spearheading sales. Both are built in Sunderland, UK, but a new Daimler-Infiniti JV factory in Mexico will begin producing the models next year for tariff-free export to the US.
GALLERY: Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration Concept
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HCCI technology incoming?