Infiniti is still keeping to teasing its advanced sports car concept that’s set to debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The first two partials of the car in November have now been joined by another, and behind-the-scenes info videos have also come about.

The company says the as-yet-unnamed concept will be the first Infiniti to have a range-extender drivetrain, and willl also be the first to feature a midship mounted drivetrain for optimal weight distribution and handling.

Going the midship route means facilitating a change in vocabulary for the company’s design language, from a style and content point of view. The purpose of the Geneva concept then is to explore what might be the next stage in how to deliver a vivid, engaging and sophisticated driving experience from an electrically-propelled vehicle – Infiniti believes the midship mechanical layout could very well be a vital ingredient in making that magic happen.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has revealed the first two teaser images of what it calls a highly advanced, range-extending electric sports car concept, which it will unveil in Geneva next March.

The basis of its creation, Infiniti says, is to extend the potential for high performance, low emission electric cars, but the company isn’t saying anything else beyond that, so looks like it’ll have to wait until it gets closer to the Swiss show for more details on the new offering to come about.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Nissan says it will begin manufacturing Infiniti-brand vehicles in China as early as next year, according to a report, and in doing so, it will become the first Japanese automaker to produce luxury cars there. A Hubei Province factory owned by Nissan joint venture Dongfeng Motor is being considered as a candidate site for the plant.

The company is looking to take Infiniti, which sold about 146,000 units globally in 2010, to a new level in the next five years – it hopes to shift more than 500,000 units by 2016. By then, China will likely become the number one market for Infiniti, surpassing the US.

The brand is also locating its new global headquarters in Hong Kong; the new corporate facility is slated to begin operations in April next year. With the brand’s growth strategy expected to be driven partly by demand in China and other fast-growing Asian markets, it says that everything will be served more effectively by consolidating its global downstream functions in Hong Kong.

About 100 staff, currently handling market research, sales strategies and A&P, and located in Japan, the US and Europe, will be integrated in Hong Kong when the office opens. Nissan says it is also looking at gradually shifting product planning there, to reflect local preferences in its products.

Along with this transfer, the report adds that Nissan will abandon its practice of making all of its luxury vehicles in Japan. Infiniti vehicles are currently manufactured at plants in Tochigi and Fukuoka prefectures, with a combined capacity at slightly more than 200,000 units. Nissan says it will maintain its domestic capacity, but is set to launch overseas production to keep up with a growing demand.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti, which opened its second ASEAN outlet here in KL last week, announced at the Korean GP that it will expand its partnership with the Red Bull Racing F1 team for the 2012 season, seven months after the partnership began.

Next season will see more prominent Infiniti branding on the RBR F1 cars, with enhanced logos on the side of the chassis and cockpit top of the next generation car. Elsewhere, the Infiniti name and logo will also be expanded to new areas on the drivers’ overalls and team equipment.

Additionally, Infiniti and RBR is set to increase the global and market leverage of their partnership through more marketing and media activities throughout the year. The company will also continue to build on its personal agreement with Sebastian Vettel, who has already worked on several projects with it, including the launch of the Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel concept in Frankfurt in September.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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The Malaysian auto market welcomes a new brand today in Infiniti. Nissan’s luxury marque is distributed here by Inspired Motor Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) and Auto Dunia. ETCM is of course the company representing Nissan in Malaysia.

Malaysia becomes the second country in ASEAN to welcome Infiniti, the first being Indonesia. The brand, birthed in 1989 and focused on North America, is undergoing a major global expansion drive over the next two years. Infiniti cars are now sold in 15 countries. Their target is to capture 5% of Malaysia’s luxury segment by 2016.

Mr Toru Saito, Infiniti’s Corporate VP, along with ETCM bosses opened the 8,000 sq ft Infiniti Center this evening. Located at Chulan Square along Jalan Raja Chulan, the IREDI (Infiniti Retail Environment Design Initiative) showroom is at a high visibility junction opposite Porsche and Audi across the road. It’s hard to miss.

The brand greets Malaysia with a four-car range including two crossovers, a sedan and a coupe. The entry model is the EX crossover, priced at RM380,000. Next up is the sexy G Coupe at RM415,000, which is RM10k cheaper than the M saloon, which costs RM425,000. The range topper is of course the attention grabbing FX crossover at RM435,000. There’s a GT Premium optional pack for the EX and FX, costing RM15k and RM35k respectively.

All four models are in “37″ spec, meaning that they share the same 3.7-litre V6 engine with 320 hp and 360 Nm at 5,200 rpm. This 24-valve DOHC unit boasts low friction molybdenum coated pistons, microfinished camshafts, CVTC at both intake and exhaust and Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL).

The V6 is mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox with Adaptive Shift Control and Drive Sport mode. The manual mode has what Infiniti calls Downshift Rev Matching, DRM.

The fastest of the bunch is of course the G Coupe, which does 0-100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. Fellow rear-driven M saloon isn’t far behind at 6.2 seconds, so gung-ho Golf GTIs better not initiate traffic light GPs. Both top out at 250 km/h.

The two AWD crossovers are bulkier, and slower, but still duck under seven seconds. The EX’s figures are 6.4 seconds/240 km/h while the large FX does 6.8s and 235 km/h.

Equipment lists are very long across the board. The FX, for instance, comes with 20-inch wheels, HID with AFS, moonroof, intelligent key, powered tailgate, heated outside mirrors with reverse tilt down, scratch shield paint, quilted leather, 10-way power driver’s seat with memory, 2GB Music Box, Bluetooth audio streaming, Fine Vision gauges, 7-inch colour MID, rear view monitor, tyre pressure monitor (TPMS) and magnesium shift paddles, among other kit.

Sat in the M and was surprised to find Bose speakers integrated within the front seats!

Welcome to Malaysia, Infiniti. Full gallery after the jump.

Infiniti EX

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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It seems we have more news from Putrajaya. Reader Akmal spotted two Infiniti models at JPJ Putrajaya. As mentioned before, Nissan’s luxury brand will be making an entry into Malaysia by the fourth quarter of this year along with an Infiniti Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Auto Dunia is the franchise holder and the Infiniti Centre will be operated by Inspired Motor which is a joint venture between Auto Dunia and Edaran Tan Chong Motor.

The dark red model we have here is the Infiniti EX which is a compact crossover SUV that is positioned below the FX range. Several models are available including the EX37 and the EX25 which is sold in China only. There is also a diesel variant called the EX30d. From the images, we can’t really tell which variant this vehicle is but it could likely be the EX37.

The EX37 uses a 3.7 litre V6 petrol engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift or VVEL. It makes 316hp and comes with a 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode in the UK. Torque is set at 360Nm at 5,200 rpm. 0-100km/h takes 6.4 seconds while top speed is 240km/h.

The larger of the two is the Infiniti FX which is categorized as a mid-sized crossover SUV. This model is also available as an FX37, FX30d or as an FX50. Our guess would also be that the FX37 will be offered here. As the name suggests, it also uses the same 3.7 litre V6 and gearbox combo offered with the EX37. Power is also the same at 316hp and 360Nm of torque at 5,200 rpm. However 0-100km/h takes a little slower, 6.8 seconds to be exact and top speed is 233km/h.

Continue reading to view more images.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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You are looking at the Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel version, said to be designed by, and built for, the reigning Formula 1 world champion. It will make its debut in concept form at the upcoming Frankfurt show, and will be revealed by none other than Vettel himself, who is also Infiniti Global Brand Ambassador.

The Vettel-badged FX is the lightest, fastest and most aerodynamic FX yet, “reflecting the World Champion’s desire for a 300 km/h Crossover that he can drive on his home country’s derestricted Autobahn,” according to Infiniti.

Based on the recently facelifted range topping V8-powered FX50S Premium, the FX Sebastian Vettel features changes to engine, suspension and body, with key aerodynamic enhancements implemented with input from Red Bull Racing. The one-off model also has an interior personalised to Seb’s taste.

More pics after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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We’ve had few rounds of teasers already, so here’s the full monty. The Infiniti JX Concept has been revealed at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance by Nissan Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura. While it looks like one, this is not the production version – that one will debut at the LA show at the end of this year.

“The JX Concept advances the Infiniti design language, sharing design cues of the Infiniti Essence concept, yet interprets those elements in ways suitable to the needs of a family luxury crossover.

“From the dramatic front grille and headlight design to the crescent-cut D-pillar and greenhouse shape, the JX Concept shines as a fresh, bold alternative to the many flavors of vanilla currently dominating the three-row luxury crossover segment,” Nakamura san beamed.

The JX is a three-row seven-seater SUV slotting between Infiniti’s sporty FX crossover and the jumbo QX. Nissan’s luxury brand says that the production JX will offer class-leading roominess and “exceptionally easy” third row access.

“With the JX, you will even be able to leave a child seat latched to the second row while getting in or out of the third row – just one example of the vehicle’s inspired flexibility and versatility. The third row isn’t the typical penalty box either, with adult-sized room for all occupants and five-and-a-half inches of second row forward-back adjustability,” said Infiniti Americas VP Ben Poore.

It will be V6 powered, with a choice of FWD or AWD. The transmission will be a “sport tuned” CVT that mimics a stepped transmission when Sport mode is engaged. Specs and details will come later.

Feature wise, the JX will debut Backup Collision Intervention. With BCI, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing objects behind the vehicle and will automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision, if necessary. Sounds like Volvo’s Pedestrian Detection system in the S60, but for the rear.

Other niceties include a 14-speaker Bose Studio Surround sound system with Waveguide bass tech, Infiniti Connection Telematics system that can automatically synch the owner’s calendar and provide navigation guidance to appointments, as well as Infiniti Personal Assistant, the new personal concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants.

More pics after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has released the sixth (and we presume final) teaser image of its upcoming JX Concept, which will be fully unveiled three days from now at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It shows the front grill and headlamps.

The pic before this was a full shot of the rear, which is in line with the Infiniti look seen on the just facelifted FX. Previous images show partially the front three quarter view, revealing the headlights and profile lines. Another shows a distinctive kink at the D-pillar area. We’ve also seen a close up shot of the LED tail lamps.

The JX, which slots in between the five seater FX and jumbo sized QX, is set for production and will join the Infiniti range in Spring 2012. The production car will debut at the LA show at the end of this year.

Nissan’s luxury marque promises “a stunning interior” with “exceptional seating flexibility, easy access to the roomy third row, plus the latest in-vehicle technology – including next-generation telematics”. View the other pieces of the jigsaw puzzle after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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This is the fifth teaser image released by Infiniti of its upcoming luxury crossover. A seven seater called the JX Concept, it will be unveiled at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 18.

Previous images show partially the front three quarter view, revealing the long headlights and profile lines. Another shows a distinctive kink at the D-pillar area. We’ve also seen a close up shot of the LED tail lamps. This latest pic fully shows the JX’s rear end, which is in line with the Infiniti look seen on the FX, which has just been facelifted.

More than just a concept, the JX, which slots in between the five seater FX and jumbo sized QX, is set for production and will join the Infiniti range in Spring 2012. The production car will debut at the LA show at the end of this year.

Nissan’s luxury marque promises “a stunning interior” with “exceptional seating flexibility, easy access to the roomy third row, plus the latest in-vehicle technology – including next-generation telematics”.

View the previously released teasers after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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The Infiniti FX, one of the most bold looking cars on sale, gets a facelift. The most obvious change is up front, where the FX wears a new grille inspired by the Infiniti Essence Concept from Geneva 2009. There’s also newly designed alloy wheels. Inside the “command center-style cockpit”, heated seats are now standard across the range, while the Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges has a more pronounced white appearance.

Here’s one interesting feature we found – an automatic driving position system. This moves the steering wheel and wing mirrors adaptively into the correct position when the seat is adjusted, allowing the driver to change the seat position and keep the same mirror viewpoint and relationship between the steering column and driver’s shoulder position.

The FX comes with two engine options, a 5.0-litre V8 with 390 hp and 500 Nm and a 3.5-litre V6 with 303 hp and 355 Nm. Both are mated to a 7-speed auto with manual shift mode, Downshift Rev Matching and Adaptive Shift Control. Solid magnesium paddle are thrown in with the Sport Package.

Based upon the Infiniti FX35 AWD variant, the Limited Edition features an exclusive Iridium Blue exterior colour, 21-inch 10-spoke graphite finish wheels (with 265/45 V-rated all-season tyres), dark tinted headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) and auto-leveling, and dark tinted side air vents and lower door trim.

Other LE features include aluminum roof rails/roof rail crossbars with graphite finish, aluminum pedals, graphite floor mats with unique blue piping, Infiniti Hard Drive Navi and Around View Monitor.

Infiniti, which is coming to Malaysia later this year, will be debuting a new seven-seat crossover called JX soon, read about that one here.

Gallery after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has released a set of teaser images for an upcoming luxury crossover. Called the JX Concept, this crossover will have its global reveal at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 18. It’s set for production and will join the Infiniti range in Spring 2012. The production car will debut at the LA show at the end of this year.

“Families don’t have many luxury vehicle options today. The new Infiniti JX will be the 7-passenger antidote to the ho-hum luxury crossovers that are out there right now,” said Ben Poore, VP of Infiniti Americas.

It will have “a stunning interior” with “exceptional seating flexibility, easy access to the roomy third row, plus the latest in-vehicle technology – including next-generation telematics,” Nissan’s luxury marque adds.

The JX is bound to slot in between the current FX and mega sized QX SUV. View the rest of the teasers after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Nissan’s luxury brand Infiniti is the latest and most prominent sponsor of Red Bull Racing, and it is wasting no time in milking the potential. Infiniti has plans to collaborate with the F1 champions on a high performance road car project, it has been revealed.

“Our relationship with Red Bull is only five races old, but the trajectory for it is to move on and work more closely together. One way of doing that is on a road car project,” said Simon Sproule, Nissan’s Corporate VP for Global Motorsport.

The Brit cited the well regarded Renault Clio Williams as a “credible” and successful example of a collaboration between a road car maker and a race team. He said that whichever base car chosen will have to be substantially reworked and would have to be re-homologated before it can go on sale.

The Clio Williams was launched in 1992, but it was entirely engineered by Renault. This collaboration is likely to involve real F1 engineers from Red Bull. “There’s no reason not to be involved. We have proved that Red Bull can take on the likes of Mercedes in F1 despite their heritage and a natural evolution of that would be to use our expertise we have in [developing] road cars,” said RBR team boss Christian Horner.

Infiniti has a two-year sponsorship deal in place with Red Bull, and they expect the fruits of this collaboration to be on sale within 18 to 24 months from now.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has announced that it will be bringing the JX, an all-new three-row luxury crossover, into the market sometime in the second quarter of 2012. The company has released an exterior sketch of the JX, and states that the brand styling theme will continue with a “crescent cut” greenhouse design influenced by the Infiniti Essence concept car.

The seven-seater promises to have a stunning interior, offer exceptional seating flexibility and easy access to the roomy third row, as well as being equipped with the latest in-vehicle technology, including next-generation telematics.

More details will emerge when the JX concept is shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this August – the production version is slated to make its global debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Fresh from his win at the Malaysian Grand Prix, and ahead of this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix, Formula One World Champion Sebastian Vettel had a different type of cameo run on track, test driving two Infiniti vehicles around a test track in Shanghai.

Click to enlarge

The Red Bull Racing driver took to the wheel of a 5.0 litre V8 Infiniti FX50, followed by a 3.7 litre V6 Infiniti G37 sedan, and amazed onlookers by lapping the circuit at high speed and demonstrating the handling capabilities of the luxury road cars.

Click to enlarge

The 23 year-old world champ thought the whole thing was a blast. “It was great fun to drive these Infiniti cars today. I was impressed; they have good handling and plenty of power – which is always a good mix – it was fun out on the track. I have been driving an FX50 myself recently, they’re nice cars and it’s great that more dealerships are opening in China.”

Click to enlarge

After the drive session, Vettel visited an Infiniti Center in Shanghai where he met fans and senior Infiniti executives, plus toured the showroom to take a closer look at the full Infiniti range available there. Ah, yes, the benefits of signing on as a major partner with a F1 team – lots of great publicity and PR, from a world champ at that. The brand is due to make its debut in Malaysia late this year.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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An Infiniti G37 Coupe S has been designated as the Work Car Zero in the 2011 season of the Rallies Championship of Spain – the car, supplied by Infiniti to the Royal Spanish Motorsport Federation, began its duties on April 1 in the Rally of Villajoyosa.

The collaboration expands on Infiniti’s involvement with the GT Championship of Spain – it already supplies a Safety Car to work in all events there. The Zero Car will be driven by Marc Blázquez, World TT Champion driving for Nissan, with Salvador Belzunces alongside as co-pilot.

The model chosen to support the Spanish Rally Championship is a G37 Coupe with a six-speed manual gearbox, and mechanically continues with its 320 hp, 360 Nm all-aluminium six-cylinder block as well as the standard limited slip diff.

Essentially, the Infiniti Zero Car is running at near standard specification, with a few modifications. A roll bar by VIMESA, Bilstein dampers, Galfer brake pads and brake fluid, outdoor lights and siren as well as communications equipment and a GPS were added, all prepared by Meycom in its facilities in Madrid.

Elsewhere, Sparco donated the racing seats, seatbelts, a fire extinguishing system and equipment used by the drivers, and Michelin has fitted the car with high-performance Pilot SuperSport tyres. In addition to the sponsors of the RFEA, the car also wears the colours of the Royal Automobile Club of Catalonia.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti is coming to Malaysia – the company announced today that it plans to introduce its range of vehicles here in the fourth quarter of 2011.

The announcement of the marque’s Malaysian introduction follows on the launch of the brand in Indonesia. In the last couple of months, it has also announced Mexico, Australia and Singapore as forthcoming markets. By 2013, Infiniti will have entered 25 new markets worldwide.

Plans are afoot to open an Infiniti Centre, which will be strategically located in Kuala Lumpur, within the year. The centre will be operated by Inspired Motor, a joint venture between Edaran Tan Chong Motor and Auto Dunia. Inspired Motor will be responsible for the retailing of Infiniti vehicles, while Auto Dunia is the franchise holder.

“As part of our worldwide expansion, we are very excited to launch Infiniti in Malaysia and welcome newly established joint venture Inspired Motor to our luxury brand fold,” said Toru Saito, Infiniti’s corporate vice president.

“Within the year, the promise of luxury vehicles with a unique combination of inspired performance, attentive hospitality and unparalleled quality will become a reality for Malaysian customers, who we know are receptive to exclusive brands,” he said.

Datuk Dr Ang Bon Beng, ETCM’s executive director, said that the impending arrival of Infiniti in Malaysia comes at a time when the luxury automotive market in Malaysia is experiencing tremendous growth. “Last year, the segment grew by 40%. Suffice to say, we are thrilled to be in the position to offer luxury car buyers in Malaysia a distinctive brand that epitomizes luxury performance,” he said.

The model line-up hasn’t been confirmed, but the word on the grapevine is that the launch point could possibly see a somewhat similar number of models as that found in Indonesia. Four variants are currently being sold there, these being the FX50 and FX37 crossovers, the M37 sedan and the G37 coupe.

The news comes just weeks after Infiniti announced a major partnership with the Red Bull Racing F1 team. On February 28, the company announced a marketing agreement with the Formula One world champions – covering the 2011 and 2012 F1 seasons – focusing on high-profile marketing and technical activities, so it’s strategically timed, the news of the brand’s impending arrival here; the announcement was made earlier today in Sepang.

Formula One World Champion and Red Bull Racing driver Sebastian Vettel, who is looking forward to competing in Infiniti’s latest market, had this to say: “It’s great to see that Infiniti will be bringing its unique style and driving luxury to this country – I think they will prove very popular with the Malaysian people.”

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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According to a report in The Jakarta Post, the Indonesian operation aims to sell 200 cars in 2011, and in the process obtain a 5% market share of the premium segment, which was worth 5,327 units in 2010 (out of a total industry volume of 745,000 last year). It’s all going well, by the looks of it – the company has thus far sold between 40-50 examples of the three models since its arrival.

Indonesia is the first of 25 markets where the brand will be launched globally until next year, all part of the brand’s plan to expand its global presence. The report adds that the company is studying plans to introduce the Infiniti Performance Line in Indonesia, though there are no plans to launch diesel variants into the market.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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10. Infiniti EX Concept: future Infiniti EX35

Infiniti has released the first official images of its Etherea concept, which will make its debut in Geneva. Designed under the direction of Nissan’s design guru Shiro Nakamura, the Etherea blends elements of coupe, sedan, hatchback and even crossover in one highly sculptural, near-mono volume form.

Click to enlarge

Aimed at younger buyers, the Etherea – which rather funnily is one ‘l’ short of becoming intangible – is not just a smaller version of a typically conservative and traditional luxury car, says the company. The 4.4m offering is compact, but is space efficient and practical thanks to a new mechanical layout and innovative access arrangements.

Click to enlarge

Novel features include fresh interpretations of traditional Japanese materials and finishes, as well as several design cues set to make their mark on future production models, including the highly distinctive crescent-shaped C-pillar first seen on the Essence concept.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has teased its upcoming concept car, likely to be named the Etherea, that it will be launching in Geneva, but it’s just a graphic depicting the profile line. As is the usual, there are no details yet of the vehicle, but the concept looks to strongly suggest that a small production coupe or hatch from the company is inbound.

The company had already intimated the arrival of the car sometime late last year. “Infiniti is currently examining concepts for a luxury performance car that will fit below the current G Line,” said its senior vice president Andy Palmer. “Like every Infiniti, it will be completely different to anything currently offered by our rivals.”

The company adds that the design will take the Japanese performance brand down a new road, to a new future. The rumour mill has it that the car might wear a Mercedes 1.8 litre CGI pot, making it the first big outing resulting from the partnership between Nissan-Renault and Daimler.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti claims its new M35h set to go on sale in 6 months time is the world’s first production hybrid to feature an audible pedestrian warning system called the Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system.

As the M35h uses a hybrid drivetrain that consists of a 306 PS 3.5 litre V6 mated to a 68 PS electric motor that can run on the electric motor alone especially at low town driving speeds, the detectability of the car to visually impaired pedestrians is a cause for concern.

The VSP system is computer controlled and links an in-car sound synthesiser with a speaker built in to the front bumper. It works from a standstill up to 30km/h upon which it cuts off, and cuts back in at 25km/h as the vehicle slows down. The M35h can travel on electric-only mode at speeds of up to 80km/h but according to Infiniti, road noise past 30km/h was deemed sufficient for VSP to remain off.

A range of high-low sounds at different volume levels ranging from 2.5kHz at the high end to a low of 600Hz was chosen after an extensive research programme to find the most effective, but least intrusive, noise. It was also designed to be audible to all age groups. We wish we could hear how it sounds like on the Infiniti M35h but you can find an example of VSP working on the Nissan LEAF above.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Nissan’s luxury brand Infiniti has just released an official teaser sketch of its very own electric vehicle. According to Infiniti Senior VP, Andy Palmer, the EV is expected to have its market launch sometime in 2013. This was revealed at a special ceremony during the opening of the Infiniti Centre in London. At the moment not much is known about the EV, apart from the obvious power source and the fact that it will be able to seat five passengers.

As you can expect, the picture doesn’t even reveal if it is a sedan, hatchback or even a coupe. All they have said was that “the Infiniti EV will be a stylish, compact, high performance, five-seat luxury car with zero emissions technology”. No word on when we will get more info on this new EV, but sources speculate Paris as a good location for more beans to be spilled.

A high-res picture is available after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has introduced a performance vehicle collection called the Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) in the US. The first IPL car is the 2011 Infiniti Performance Line G Coupe.

“IPL was conceived to create a new premium performance envelope. IPL brings all the elements together, styling harmonised with performance, exhaust note with acceleration feel, ride comfort and confident handling. It’s the perfect formula for unmatched driving exhilaration,” said Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore.

The IPL G Coupe is based on the second-gen RWD G Coupe. Exterior changes include a dramatic front and rear bumper design with integrated fog lights, sculpted side sills, rear spoiler and chrome exhaust tips. Those new 19-inch IPL split 7-spoke graphite-finish wheels (wrapped with Bridgestone Potenza RE50A tyres) are really eye catching too. Just two exterior hues are offered: Graphite Shadow and Malbec Black.

The IPL G Coupe’s enhanced performance comes from three areas – engine tuning, dynamic tuning and sound quality/acceleration feel tuning. The IPL exhaust is a full dual exhaust design with independent left and right pipes. The muffler’s inner structure and materials have been tweaked to reduce pressure and provide an “appropriate performance exhaust note”. The result is a 30% reduction in exhaust pressure versus the standard Y-pipe design.

The VQ37HR 3.7-litre V6 engine management system has been recalibrated through air-fuel mixture and ignition timing optimisation, raising the max horsepower output point to 7,400 rpm (from 7,000). The torque curve has been tuned for linearity “to obtain a natural acceleration feel”. The IPL G Coupe makes 348 hp – 18 hp more than standard – and 374 Nm of torque (+8 Nm).

The much praised G Coupe handling should be even better here, thanks to revised spring rates – increased by 20% up front and 10% at the rear. The shocks have also been tuned. The IPL G Coupe also offers a “sport-tuned steering gear”, brakes with aluminum-alloy opposed calipers (4-piston front/2-piston rear) and a viscous limited-slip differential.

Very seductive. Check out the gallery after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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The automotive market is now clamouring with automaker trying to pump out electric sportscar such as Audi with their R8 and Mercedes with their SLS AMG. Nissan could be next as sources close to the company revealed the possibility of Nissan producing an electric sportscar.

Nothing else has been confirmed, thus we could see the Japanese company using body structures from its current line-up such as the 370Z. This would be a relatively good choice as it is a lightweight car but unfortunately lacks in size which has to house the unconfirmed amount of batteries.

We have to remember that Nissan would most likely use the platform of the Leaf with an electric motor producing slightly more juice. Thus anything in that size would do this new sports car well. We could also see the use of its premium brand Infiniti and some have been suggesting the use of cars like the hybrid concept Essence seen in 2009.

This could be pure speculation but as the old saying goes, where there’s smoke, there’s Nissan’s CEO Carlos Goshn trying to make Nissan a leader in the automotive industry.

Source

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has worked with Bell & Ross to produce this special 100 unit Limited Edition BR03-92 Instrument Phantom Infiniti wristwatch. You can only buy them at Infiniti Centres in Europe so American customers will be out of luck, unless they grab one through the grey market or buy one while on holiday in Europe.

The watch was launched in commemoration of the new Infiniti FX Limited Edition crossover, which like the watch has only 100 units available. Purchase of the watch is not restricted to Infiniti FX Limited Edition owners though. Anyone with £2,809.97 (RM13.3k) to cough up can buy one.

Look after the jump for the “specs” of the watch.

Movement: Automatic mechanical ETA 2982.

Functions: Hours, minutes and seconds (all central hands). Date with quick correction.

Case: Diameter 42mm, 316L glass bead blasted steel with black ‘carbon-powder coating’ finish, and winding crown.

Back: Screw-down, stainless steel with engraving of the Infiniti signature and adjacent personalised limited edition serial number (1–100). Bell & Ross insignia etched below.

Dial: Galvanic Black. Infiniti purple-coloured seconds hand. Numbers, indexes, and photoluminescent finish for optimal night reading. Circular window for date display.

Glass: Anti-reflection sapphire crystal.

Water-resistance: 100 metres (10 bar).

Straps: Heavy-duty synthetic black fabric or rubber.

Reference: BR03 PHANTOM

Price: €2,809.97

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Ghosn didn’t give any timeline or if the Mercedes engine will entirely phase out the current 328 bhp 3.7-litre V6 used in the G range, which most testers have given the thumbs up to. Sweet it may be, but carmakers are increasingly being pressured to lower emissions of their range, and putting a small four-pot in its volume seller will help Infiniti greatly in this matter. But it remains to be seen if US customers who are used to a minimum of six cylinders in this segment will bite – Mercedes itself doesn’t use four-cylinder engines in the US; the smallest engine in the C-Class is a 3.0-litre V6.

Even America is not spared from the downsizing wave. The big V8s will still be needed, but the V6s will be slowly replaced by high output four pots. Hyundai-Kia will also not have V6s in their latest Sonata and Optima/Magentis, using instead the 2.0-litre Theta II turbocharged GDI engine, which puts out 274 bhp and 375 Nm.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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The latest Patrol is powered by a 5.6-litre direct-injected V8 with 400 bhp and 550 Nm paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission, and it’s most likely that the QX56 will sport the same drivetrain. The Infiniti should also come with the Patrol’s Hydraulic Body Motion Control System, All Mode 4X4 system with four selectable presets, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. While the Patrol name conjures up images of UN peacekeeping forces in hostile terrain, the latest version is positioned upmarket – kit includes a new multi-screen DVD entertainment system and “curtain vents”.

Here, the designers fused Infiniti-style headlights, rear lights and the wavy rear window line into a big, boxy SUV. And while all these cues work well on the marque’s smaller “coupe style” crossovers, we think that this is one of the most awkward looking 4X4s on sale. The current QX isn’t pretty, but at least it looks consistent.

More images after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti has just released four new G Anniversary Editions, built in commemoration of the Nissan luxury division’s 20th anniversary. Just 350 G Sedans and 200 each for the Coupe and Convertible will be available, scheduled to go on sale in mid-April in the US.

The Anniversary Editions are based on the high-spec “Journey” or AWD variants of the cars, which comes with a 328 bhp/365 Nm 3.7-litre V6 engine and 7-speed automatic transmission, Sport Package and 4-Wheel Active Steer (except Sedan AWD). The Convertible is offered with climate-controlled seats.

Anniversary Edition cars come in a new Graphite Shadow exterior colour and cabins appointed with Monaco Red leather. Coupe and Convertible interiors are accented with special Red-toned Maple and the sedan gets a new “Shodo-finish” aluminum trim. Other added equipment include special aluminum-alloys, W-rated summer performance tyres, Midnight Black grille, unique front chin spoiler, sport side sills (Coupe and Convertible) and rear spoiler (except Convertible). The Coupe also receives an updated rear fascia. Prices range from $43,350 to $54,900 in the States.

Infiniti seems to be doing a better job as “the Asian BMW” than Lexus. Established in America but new to Europe, the former’s current cars are widely regarded as driver’s machines. I remember the G37 coupe beating the 3-Series Coupe in an Autocar UK shootout; a BMW coming in second best is a rare event.

Hi res images after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury marque, is a young brand in the European scene, and is currently still in the process of creating brand awareness and starting up operations. Infiniti’s current Euro range consists of its crossovers and the G family of cars, but to make proper inroads in Europe, one needs a diesel, and for a brand which counts America and the Middle East as main markets, Infiniti has none, until now.

Calling it “phase two of the quiet assault on the European luxury car market” Infiniti has developed a 3.0-litre V6 diesel, the first in the brand’s 20 year history. It will initially be available in both the EX and FX crossovers and the M large sedan, which will make its debut this year. “Although we did investigate the possibility of adapting an existing large capacity diesel for Infiniti, we quickly established that nothing on the market met our exacting requirements,” said Jim Wright, VP of Infiniti Europe.

Designated V9X, the new V6 diesel is built in France and will also be used in Renault and Nissan cars. The direct injection Euro 5 engine produces 235 bhp and class-leading torque output of 550 Nm. As a comparison, BMW’s 3.0d engine makes 245 bhp and 540 Nm. Peak torque is achieved from 1,750 rpm all the way to 2,500 rpm, while as much as 500 Nm is available from just 1,500 rpm. Infiniti says that idle speed is exceptionally low at 650 rpm “with none of the NVH usually associated with a diesel”. It will be paired to a seven-speed auto standard on both crossovers.

Interestingly, Infiniti did not use aluminium or cast iron for the engine block, but Compacted Graphite Iron. CGI is said to offer all the benefits of cast iron and more – it has higher levels of stiffness and noise absorption – but without the weight penalty. And while CGI is heavier than a pure aluminium block, Infiniti says there is no need to add stiffening ribs or extra sound deadening material so the weight gain is comparatively modest. The V9X has the lowest vibrations of all benchmarked engines, according to the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

To adapt the EX and FX to the diesel engine, they get new front subframes, different front bumper designs to enhance air flow as well as redesigned sheet metal within the engine bay to house additional radiators.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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The shapely Infiniti FX is one of the most distinctive looking crossovers around, with enough fire in the belly to challenge fast 4X4s such as the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X6. It’s an alternative rather than a default choice so it’s not easy to spot one in Europe (Nissan’s luxury brand was launched there in 2008) but the rare is about to get rarer still with this Limited Edition.

The FX Limited Edition will be limited to just 100 units across Western Europe, all individually numbered. Based on the already dramatic FX37S (316 bhp 3.7-litre V6) and FX50S (385 bhp 5.0-litre V8), the Limited Edition features Black Obsidian ‘Scratch Guard’ paintwork as standard, with the pictured Moonlight White pearl metallic available as an option. Specially commissioned 21 inch ‘Turbine’ alloys are finished in dark Graphite. The radiator grille, side air vents and roof rails are similarly coordinated.

The interior reveals illuminated entry guards and fine materials, including supple Graphite leather upholstered seats, upper door panels and dashboard with contrasting stitching and Alcantara headlining. Genuine carbon fibre is used extensively on the dashboard, centre console and door panels, replacing the standard maple wood veneer. Completing the kit list is Infiniti’s Connectiviti+ system which includes an 11-speaker Bose stereo, the Michelin Guide, full iPod connectivity and a 10GB music box with Gracenotes database. An option on the standard FX37S, Connectiviti+ is joined on by Infiniti’s trick Around View Monitor park assist.

Gallery after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:38:13 +0000.

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7. Limited-edition Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 GTS
8. Porsche Cayman S Sport limited edition
9. Limited edition 194hp Toyota Hilux in the UK
10. Subaru Liberty Blitzen Limited Edition