Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Vettel and Coulthard drive Russia's very unfinished Sochi Circuit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/vettel-and-coulthard-drive-russias-very-unfinished-sochi-circui/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/vettel-and-coulthard-drive-russias-very-unfinished-sochi-circui/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/vettel-and-coulthard-drive-russias-very-unfinished-sochi-circui/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Coulthard and Vettel drive Infiniti M sedans on the site of Russia's future grand prix circuit

The next Winter Olympics will happen in Sochi, Russia from February 7-23, 2014. Sometime after that, barring any delays, a portion of the Sochi Olympic Park will be turned into the Sochi Olympic Park Circuit, a 3.65-mile track for the first Russian Grand Prix in 100 years (the last of two Formula One grands prix were held in St. Petersburg).

As we've come to expect from the Infiniti Red Bull team, it recently sent Sebastian Vettel and brand ambassador David Coulthard to the unfinished venue to run the route in Infiniti M sedans and offer some impressions. With average cornering speeds above 62 miles an hour, Coulthard called it a fast street circuit in the Monaco vein. You can watch them try it out - yes, that's Vettel gone airborne above - and avoid a "White Van Man" in the video below.

Continue reading Vettel and Coulthard drive Russia's very unfinished Sochi Circuit

Vettel and Coulthard drive Russia's very unfinished Sochi Circuit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david coulthardf1formula 1formula oneinfinitiinfiniti mrussian grand prixsebastian vettelsochisochi olympic park circuitvettelvideoThu, 16 May 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569418/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/vettel-and-coulthard-drive-russias-very-unfinished-sochi-circui/20569418/article-detail.xml 20569418 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vettel-coulthard-infiniti-sochi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vettel-coulthard-infiniti-sochi.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti hybrid sports car coming by 2016 after all?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/infiniti-hybrid-sports-car-coming-by-2016-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/infiniti-hybrid-sports-car-coming-by-2016-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/infiniti-hybrid-sports-car-coming-by-2016-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Infiniti Emerg-E Concept

Infiniti makes plenty of good cars, crossovers and SUVs. The premium Japanese brand also has a well-defined presence in racing on the world's largest stage in the form of a partnership with Red Bull in Formula 1. What Infiniti doesn't have, though, is a range-topping halo car.

A report from Autocar in the UK suggests that Infiniti's gaping top-shelf hole may soon be plugged by 2016 with a new hybrid sports car along the lines of the well-received Emerg-E and Essence concepts. This report is contrary to news we heard from Autocar late last year, when company officials reportedly told the publication that a swoopy and fuel-efficient machine like the Emerg-E wouldn't be produced.

Interestingly, Infiniti is said to sense strong demand from so-called "little emperors ... who are used to getting what they want," many of whom live in Asian countries, who are also environmentally conscious. Infiniti exec Andy Palmer told Autocar to expect something "like the Tesla sports car option, but with more flexibility in terms of range."

Reading between the lines, we picture a luxurious coupe with some combination of electric motors and gasoline engines providing power levels between 400 and 500 horsepower. We may not qualify as "little emperors" ourselves, but we certainly welcome the notion of high-performance machines that also happen to be fuel efficient.

Infiniti hybrid sports car coming by 2016 after all? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emerg-eessencehalo carhybrid sports carinfinitiinfiniti emerg-einfiniti hybridTue, 14 May 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567319/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/infiniti-hybrid-sports-car-coming-by-2016-after-all/20567319/article-detail.xml 20567319 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/infiniti-emerg-e_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/infiniti-emerg-e.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti's new Design Director is American Alfonso Albaisa]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/infiniti-design-director-american-alfonso-albaisa/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/infiniti-design-director-american-alfonso-albaisa/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/infiniti-design-director-american-alfonso-albaisa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The man responsible for creating the sleek 2010 Nissan Ellure Concept you see above is now the design director for Infiniti. Alfonso Albaisa (shown at right) has been a member of the Nissan design team for 25 years, but was recently promoted to executive design director for the Infiniti brand.

His past roles at Nissan have included design director for Nissan from 2004 to 2007, vice president of Nissan Design Europe from 2007 to 2011, vice president of Nissan Design America in 2011 and, most recently, he held the title of Nissan's global design director. Aside from Ellure, Albaisa was also responsible for designing the 2012 Nissan Xtrem Concept, "key strategic production vehicles soon to be launched" and he's even contributed to a handful of Infiniti designs. Scroll down for the official press release.

Continue reading Infiniti's new Design Director is American Alfonso Albaisa

Infiniti's new Design Director is American Alfonso Albaisa originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alfonso Albaisadesign directorInfinitinissanvehicle designFri, 10 May 2013 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562580/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/infiniti-design-director-american-alfonso-albaisa/20562580/article-detail.xml 20562580 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/01-nissan-ellure-la-2010-1290024144_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/01-nissan-ellure-la-2010-1290024144.jpg <![CDATA[Race Recap: 2013 Bahrain Grand Prix follows the template of this year and last [spoilers]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/race-recap-2013-bahrain-grand-prix-follows-the-template-of-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/race-recap-2013-bahrain-grand-prix-follows-the-template-of-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/race-recap-2013-bahrain-grand-prix-follows-the-template-of-this/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



The sand, the wind, the penalties, the contact and the one crash - all of them collided to make the Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix a surprise affair from day to day and lap to lap. Oh, and did we mention the tires? Pirelli made a last-minute swap after the amusement park ride that the Chinese Grand Prix turned into with the soft compound tire, and brought medium and hard compounds to the desert. That didn't stop things from falling apart for some teams - literally - and that didn't stop the one team that seems to love the hard compound Pirelli tire.

Continue reading Race Recap: 2013 Bahrain Grand Prix follows the template of this year and last [spoilers]

Race Recap: 2013 Bahrain Grand Prix follows the template of this year and last [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bahrain grand prixbahrain grand prixf1fernando alonsoferrariformula onegrand prixinfinitiinfiniti red bull racingkimi raikkonenlewis hamiltonlotusred bullromain grosjeansebastian vettelMon, 22 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546744/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/race-recap-2013-bahrain-grand-prix-follows-the-template-of-this/20546744/article-detail.xml 20546744 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/bgp1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/bgp1.jpg <![CDATA[About 20k Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti JX models recalled for potentially faulty brakes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall for the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder and 2013 Infiniti JX due to a problem with the front brakes. The problem is a result of the brake torque member (a part that attaches the brake caliper to the front suspension), which was cast improperly with a structural weakness that could possibly lead to "reduced braking, increasing the risk of a crash," according to NHTSA. How, you ask? If the part breaks, the brake caliper could move position and possibly make contact with the wheel.

Around 20,000 of these sister crossovers are being recalled, but it doesn't sound like all were equipped with the faulty component. Dealers will inspect vehicles built between December 3, 2012 and January 29, 2013, and replace components from the defective batch. The recall goes into effect next month, but until then, the official recall notice is posted below with information for how owners can contact Nissan.

Continue reading About 20k Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti JX models recalled for potentially faulty brakes

About 20k Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti JX models recalled for potentially faulty brakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 19:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 infiniti jx2013 nissan pathfinderinfinitiinfiniti jxinfiniti recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanissannissan pathfindernissan recallrecallFri, 19 Apr 2013 19:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545768/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/19/about-20k-nissan-pathfinder-infiniti-jx-models-recalled-for-pot/20545768/article-detail.xml 20545768 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/13-2013-nissan-pathfinder-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/13-2013-nissan-pathfinder-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Infiniti Red Bull Racing set a world record pitstop time in Malaysia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/watch-infiniti-red-bull-racing-set-a-world-record-pitstop-time-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/watch-infiniti-red-bull-racing-set-a-world-record-pitstop-time-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/04/watch-infiniti-red-bull-racing-set-a-world-record-pitstop-time-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Infiniti Red Bull Racing conducts a world-record pitstop in Malaysia - video screencap

How quickly can you change a tire? The pit crew for Infiniti Red Bull Racing can do it in 2.05 seconds. Actually, they can change four tires in 2.05 seconds, and they did just that at the Grand Prix of Malaysia two weeks ago, setting a new world record for the quickest pitstop in the process.

There must've been something in the water over there in Malaysia, as the old pitstop record of 2.31 seconds set by McLaren in Germany last year fell six times during the course of the race. Five of those record-beating pitstops were performed by Infiniti Red Bull Racing, one for Sebastian Vettel on his first stop, which took 2.13 seconds, and four for fellow driver Mark Webber, who brought his car in on Lap 19 for what would be the quickest pitstop of the day and the new world record. Three other Webber pitstops were under the old record's time, and even team McLaren apparently beat its old record in Malaysia with a best time of 2.28 seconds.

What does a 2.05-second pitstop look like? Scroll down to watch these expert car handlers reshoe an entire car in less time than it takes you to find a tire iron. We've also included a video of the previous record-setting pitstop by McLaren that stood for about a year.

Continue reading Watch Infiniti Red Bull Racing set a world record pitstop time in Malaysia

Watch Infiniti Red Bull Racing set a world record pitstop time in Malaysia originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinitiinfiniti red bull racingmark webbermclarenpit stoppitstoprecord pitstopsebastian vetteltire changevideoworld recordworlds fastest pitstopworlds quickest pitstopThu, 04 Apr 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530068/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/04/watch-infiniti-red-bull-racing-set-a-world-record-pitstop-time-i/20530068/article-detail.xml 20530068 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/infiniti-red-bull-record-pitstop_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/infiniti-red-bull-record-pitstop.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Infiniti Q50 configurator comes alive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/2014-infiniti-q50-configurator-comes-alive/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/2014-infiniti-q50-configurator-comes-alive/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/2014-infiniti-q50-configurator-comes-alive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Infiniti Q50 online configurator

The G37-replacing 2014 Infiniti Q50 sport sedan launches in the not-too-distant future, and for those curious about how pricing and packages will shake out, the car's official online configurator has been launched. Here, you can build the Q50 or Q50 Hybrid of your dreams, with the cost of entry starting at $36,450 (plus $905 for destination).

Selecting the hybrid model adds $7,250 to that bottom line - mostly because the gasoline-electric version is only available in the Premium trim and higher, while the gas-only Q50 comes in a base guise. Adding all-wheel drive, which Infiniti has made available with either engine and on all trims, will set you back $1,800.

There are a number of packages available across the trims, including a $1,400 navigation pack that includes a spare tire kit, a deluxe touring pack that costs $4,700 (and includes the navigation goodies), and the upper-crust $7,900 technology package which gets you, well, everything. Put that all together on a Venetian Ruby Q50 RWD Sport like we did, and you're looking at $51,755 when destination has been added.

To recap, the Q50 is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 that produces 328 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. The Q50 Hybrid uses a smaller 3.5-liter V6 coupled to a 50-kilowatt electric motor. In the hybrid, the gas engine produces 296 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, and the total output with the hybrid motor brings that first number up to 354.

Head over to Infiniti's build-your-own site to see all of the color and package combinations for the Q50, and scroll through our gallery below to see many more shots of the car live from its Detroit Auto Show debut.

2014 Infiniti Q50 configurator comes alive originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 infiniti q502014 infiniti q50 hybridconfiguratorinfinitiinfiniti q50infiniti q50 hybridTue, 02 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20525114/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/02/2014-infiniti-q50-configurator-comes-alive/20525114/article-detail.xml 20525114 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/q50config_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/q50config.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid gives us déjà vu]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-qx60-hybrid-new-york-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-qx60-hybrid-new-york-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-qx60-hybrid-new-york-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid

If we were totally lazy, we'd just copy and paste the text from our Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid post into this one. Why? Because the Infiniti JX35 QX60 Hybrid you see here is pretty much identical to its Nissan-badged sibling. At least, in terms of mechanicals.

But we aren't lazy... completely. Instead, let's have a quick recap. Engine: Supercharged 2.5-liter mill mated to a 15-kilowatt electric motor. Fuel economy: 26 miles per gallon combined. Interior changes: None - the battery does not compromise any sort of cargo or passenger volume. Price: Roughly $3,000 more than the standard QX60.

If you feel like the nitty-gritty details are necessary, have a look at the official press release below for all the goods. Otherwise, peruse the images in our high-res image gallery and tell us if you can spot the difference between the Q-by-60 and its Nissan twin.

Continue reading 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid gives us déjà vu

2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid gives us déjà vu originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 new york auto show2014 infiniti qx60 hybridinfinitiinfiniti qx60infiniti qx60 hybridnew yorknew york auto showWed, 27 Mar 2013 21:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20520720/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-qx60-hybrid-new-york-2013/20520720/article-detail.xml 20520720 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-infiniti-qx60-hybrid-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-infiniti-qx60-hybrid-ny.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti hires Sebastian Vettel as Director of Performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/infiniti-hires-sebastian-vettel-as-director-of-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/infiniti-hires-sebastian-vettel-as-director-of-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/infiniti-hires-sebastian-vettel-as-director-of-performance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Remember when, during the Grand Prix of the Americas weekend last November, we told you that Sebastian Vettel had worked with Infiniti on the new G Coupe and that there'd be more of that kind of involvement on the way? It's been made official with the three-time Formula One World Champion being named Infiniti's Director of Performance.

Although the announcement is fresh, Vettel's time on the job isn't, Infiniti saying that Vettel went to Japan, the Nürburgring and the Circuit de Catalunya to assist in the development of the Q50 sedan.

When we spoke to Andreas Sigl, the man in charge of Infiniti's F1 collaboration with Red Bull, about the tie-up he had also said, "Like Mercedes has AMG and BMW has M - whether it's called IPL or not - we want to have something in that space." If the brand is still serious about that, Vettel's chops could help them deliver the kind of performance they'd need as upstarts to challenge the ringleaders of that particular hi-po circus.

We might find out soon enough if Vettel's s better at taking team orders from Infiniti than Red Bull. There's a press release below with the officially sanctioned paragraphs outlining his new role.

Continue reading Infiniti hires Sebastian Vettel as Director of Performance

Infiniti hires Sebastian Vettel as Director of Performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>director of performancef1infinitiinfiniti q50sebastian vettelWed, 27 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20520565/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/infiniti-hires-sebastian-vettel-as-director-of-performance/20520565/article-detail.xml 20520565 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/sebastianvettelinfinitiperf_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/sebastianvettelinfinitiperf.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Infiniti Q50 priced from $36,450*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-q50-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-q50-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-q50-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



With the 2014 Infiniti Q50 going on sale this summer, Infiniti has finally released pricing for its all-new and newly named sedan. In base form, the Q50 will start at $36,450 (*including $905 for destination and handling), which represents a drop of $900 compared to the current G37 Sedan.

In standard form, the Q50 is available in base, Premium and Sport trim levels with each offering the option of all-wheel drive for an additional $1,800. All gas-only Q50s come with the automaker's excellent 3.7-liter V6 engine, but stepping over to the Q50 Hybrid gets you a smaller 3.5-liter V6 paired with an electric motor. The Q50 Hybrid, which is available in Premium and Sport trim levels only, will begin at $43,700 for a rear-wheel-drive Sport model.

Potential buyers who preorder and ultimately purchase a Q50 during the unspecified "program period" will also get a free iPad mini. Scroll down for the official press release breaking down all trim levels and price points.

Continue reading 2014 Infiniti Q50 priced from $36,450*

2014 Infiniti Q50 priced from $36,450* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 infiniti q502014 infiniti q50 pricinginfinitiinfiniti q50infiniti q50 pricingWed, 27 Mar 2013 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20519793/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-infiniti-q50-pricing/20519793/article-detail.xml 20519793 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/002-2014-infiniti-q50-1358178420-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/002-2014-infiniti-q50-1358178420-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti <strike>JX35</strike> QX60 Hybrid confirmed for New York debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid crossover - rear three-quarter view

The next Q-ified Infiniti will be making its debut at the New York Auto Show later this month, the QX60 - the crossover formerly known as JX35. And while there aren't many changes to the crossover in terms of design or function, the big news is that Infiniti will be revealing a production hybrid powertrain option for its seven-passenger luxury/utility vehicle.

Unlike the hybrid powertrain in Infiniti's M35h gasoline-electric sedan, the QX60 will use a new system which couples a 2.5-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine with a 15-kilowatt electric motor, running to the wheels via continuously variable transmission. Both front- and all-wheel-drive versions of the QX60 Hybrid will be available, and Infiniti says that the more efficient CUV should be good for around 26 miles per gallon combined - an improvement of five mpg over the current JX35 with its 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. And because the compact lithium-ion battery will be housed underneath the third row seat, we're told that the hybrid model will still have the same passenger and cargo capacity of the non-hybrid crossover.

This will be the first three-row hybrid CUV (from a premium brand, anyway) offered in the US market, and wrapping it up in a luxury package makes a lot of sense to us, since it could be a good way of cajoling customers into absorbing the extra cost of the more expensive powertrain. (Keyword in that sentence: CUV. After all, the Cadillac Escalade is still currently available as a two-mode hybrid for the 2013 model year.) Infiniti has not released official pricing figures, but says that the hybrid model will represent a roughly $3,000 premium over the standard QX60.

We'll have the full details in just a few weeks. For now, take a glance below for Infiniti's official press release.

Continue reading Infiniti JX35 QX60 Hybrid confirmed for New York debut

Infiniti JX35 QX60 Hybrid confirmed for New York debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 infiniti qx60 hybridhybridinfinitijx 35 hybridjx hybridjx35jx35 hybridnew yorknew york 2013new york auto showqxqx60Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/infiniti-jx35-qx60-hybrid-confirmed-for-new-yor/20494964/article-detail.xml 20494964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/qx60628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/qx60628.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti-Red Bull Racing will seek a fourth title with the RB9 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/infiniti-red-bull-racing-will-seek-a-fourth-title-with-the-rb9/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/infiniti-red-bull-racing-will-seek-a-fourth-title-with-the-rb9/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/infiniti-red-bull-racing-will-seek-a-fourth-title-with-the-rb9/#commentsFiled under: , ,



This is the car and the team that everyone wants to dethrone. The stability of this year's regulations means that the Infiniti Red Bull RB9 is a seriously honed RB8; however, that's a situation probably no other team would complain about seeing that the RB8 recovered from early stumbles and reliability issues last year to carry Sebastian Vettel to a third consecutive driver's title and the team to a third consecutive constructor's trophy.

The most noteworthy revisions to the car are the partial vanity panel that omits the driver cooling slot, the even narrower rear end - a feature of just about every car launched so far - and purple sidepods to showcase new title sponsor Infiniti. Adrian Newey, perhaps the most feared designer on the pit lane, said the nose and front wing could be changed relatively easily throughout the season, but he wanted to make sure to get the middle of the car - everything from the sidepods, back - as good as possible since they're more difficult to re-engineer. His track record leads us to believe he did just that.

Below are two videos, one of the making of the RB9, the other the launch at team headquarters in Milton Keynes.

Continue reading Infiniti-Red Bull Racing will seek a fourth title with the RB9 [w/video]

Infiniti-Red Bull Racing will seek a fourth title with the RB9 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Johann De Nysschen with Infiniti Q50 sedan reveal in Detroit

We've known since mid-December that Infiniti's new global model naming convention would turn the current-generation G37 Coupe into the Q60 Coupe starting next year, but we haven't been clear on whether the model-range-formerly-known-as-G would get a successor, especially as its volume has traditionally been a lot lower than its sedan counterpart.

Thankfully, Infiniti president Johann De Nysschen (above) has stepped up to confirm that the newly revealed Q50 sedan will receive a two-door counterpart, though perhaps not as quickly as some would like. According to an interview with Australia's CarAdvice.com, De Nysschen says "the coupe we can probably expect two-and-a-half to three years down the road." That news also suggests that if there's an eventual convertible version, that it's a long way off, too. Why so long? Infiniti has "a lot of priorities" - priorities that undoubtedly include an already-confirmed front-wheel-drive small hatchback/crossover.

The report also indicates that Infiniti has some aspirations for stretching its new Q50/Q60 range in a higher-performance direction to take on competitors like BMW and Audi, the latter being De Nysschen's former employer. There's far from a firm timetable offered, of course, with De Nysschen saying "someday in the future we will be able to offer more high performance versions [of Q50] than we have today... the dynamic capabilities of this platform are very significant. It can handle far higher power than the engines we are using at launch."

Infiniti has long envisioned itself as Japan's answer to BMW, and from where we sit, high-performance models would likely help keep the brand focused as it branches out into new segments like that of the JX, a three-row crossover with few sporting pretensions. In addition, its nascent Infiniti Performance Line [IPL] franchise could use the help - we've been underwhelmed with the pricy IPL G Coupe and Convertible to this point, and Infiniti will need to work harder if it truly wants to align its products with its growing Formula One marketing efforts.

Infiniti boss De Nysschen confirms next-gen Q60 Coupe, ponders high-performance variants originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gg37 coupeg37 sedaninfinitiipljohan de nysschenq50q60Tue, 22 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20435040/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/22/infiniti-boss-de-nysschen-confirms-next-gen-q60-coupe-ponders-h/20435040/article-detail.xml 20435040 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/denysschen-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/denysschen-2.jpg <![CDATA[Analyzing De Nyscchen's 25-year comeback plan for Infiniti]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/19/analyzing-de-nyscchens-25-year-comeback-plan-for-infiniti/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/19/analyzing-de-nyscchens-25-year-comeback-plan-for-infiniti/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/19/analyzing-de-nyscchens-25-year-comeback-plan-for-infiniti/#commentsFiled under: ,



"It took us 25 years to bring Audi back in the US. This kind of thing takes a long time."

When Johan De Nysschen left his post at Audi of America last year to take the seemingly thankless job of leading Infiniti's global operations, it seemed like a familiar scenario. Like Michael Dukakis going from one of two men that could have won the White House to teaching political science at an obscure Florida college.

De Nysschen was a key architect in rebuilding Audi in the US, from a punchline about "sudden acceleration" in the 1980s, to being a truly hot brand and legitimately vying with BMW and Mercedes-Benz for one-percenters' German car bucks. In talking about his task at Infiniti with me, he repeated a line that I wonder if he mentioned to Nissan-Renault honcho Carlos Ghosn at the hiring meeting: "It took us 25 years to bring Audi back in the US. This kind of thing takes a long time."

Continue reading Analyzing De Nyscchen's 25-year comeback plan for Infiniti

Analyzing De Nyscchen's 25-year comeback plan for Infiniti originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25-year planinfinitijohan de nysschenopinionq50Sat, 19 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20429613/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/19/analyzing-de-nyscchens-25-year-comeback-plan-for-infiniti/20429613/article-detail.xml 20429613 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/denysschen-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/denysschen-2.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Infiniti Q50 debuts G-replacing design, new hybrid model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/2014-infinti-q50-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/2014-infinti-q50-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/2014-infinti-q50-detroit-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Feast your eyes upon the all-new 2014 Infiniti Q50. Say what you will about Infiniti's new Q and QX naming system, but after looking at the new Q50 unveiled today at the Detroit Auto Show and checking out its feature list, we're having a hard time coming up with any additional criticisms. The highlights of the Q50, which goes on sale this summer in the US, include the eye-catching design, innovative cabin technology and a fuel-efficient hybrid model.

The Infiniti G has always had a focus on leading-edge styling, and its replacement is no different. We can easily see that the basic theme of the Q50 was inspired by the Infiniti LE Concept we saw earlier in the year. The edges are a little toned down for the production design, but the overall look is there with the fluidic lines, crescent-shaped C-pillar, the now-signature grille and the horizontal headlights and taillights. Compared to the current G Sedan, the Q50 is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, and it's also more aerodynamic with a drag coefficient of just 0.26, putting in between the Chevrolet Volt (0.28) and the Toyota Prius (0.25).

Continue reading 2014 Infiniti Q50 debuts G-replacing design, new hybrid model

2014 Infiniti Q50 debuts G-replacing design, new hybrid model originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2014 Infiniti Q50 leaked image

Well, what do we have here? It seems that Infiniti.ca, the official Canadian website of the Japanese automaker, accidentally published a load of 2014 Q50 images ahead of its official debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

As you can see in our high-res image gallery of screen shots above, the 2014 Infiniti Q50 carries along in the footsteps of the marque's current curvy design language. There's the requisite pinched chrome grille, upswept headlight clusters, and a hood with multiple flowing ridges, peaks and valleys.

As confusing as the newly Q-infused lineup may be on paper, there's simply no mistaking the new Q50 for anything but an Infiniti. You can expect a whole slew of images, facts, figures and commentary on the new luxury sedan on Monday, but until then, feel free to let us know what you think in the Comments.

2014 Infiniti Q50 hits the web early, courtesy of... Infiniti originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jan 2013 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 infiniti q50detroitdetroit 2013gg35g37infinitiq50Sun, 13 Jan 2013 10:50:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20427386/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/13/infiniti-q50-hits-the-web-early-courtesy-of-infiniti/20427386/article-detail.xml 20427386 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/q502-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/q502-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/2013-infiniti-ipl-g-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/2013-infiniti-ipl-g-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/2013-infiniti-ipl-g-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible - front three-quarter, white

Infiniti rolled out the IPL version of its G37 Convertible at the Los Angeles Auto Show more than a year ago. The Infiniti Performance Line treatment logically mirrors that of the IPL G Coupe, meaning it receives both cosmetic and mechanical tweaks designed to raise the pulse of driving enthusiasts. Aside from the overstated aerodynamic styling components and huge exhaust tips, the cabin features special leather upholstery, aluminum trim and IPL badging to distinguish it from lesser siblings. Under the hood, the 3.7-liter V6 (VQ37VHR) has been recalibrated to deliver 343 horsepower - 18 more than the standard coupe - and 273 pound-feet of torque. The suspension has been upgraded with firmer spring and stabilizer bar rates, multi-piston sport brakes are fitted and 19-inch graphite-finish wheels wrapped with summer rubber are bolted on. There are only two exterior color choices (Moonlight White and Malbec Black) and two upholstery choices (Stone and IPL-exclusive Monaco Red). Everything sounds marvelous until someone reveals its as-tested $62,415 window sticker.

DRIVING NOTES
  • The three-section steel roof raises and lowers in a leisurely manner - give it about 30 seconds each way. While it is marvel to watch, the operation seems clunky, not fluid. Buttoned up, with all four windows closed, the cabin is comfortable. Wind noise is minimal and the front buckets coddle passengers in all the right places. While tight, those of smaller stature will find the two rear seats tolerable for short journeys (my kids never complained). Outward visibility is also very good for a convertible - no impeding B-pillar.
  • Top down driving is pleasant, with wind buffeting minimal even without the optional rear wind deflector (on the window sticker, but missing from my tester). I rolled up the windows, turned the climate-controlled front seats on high, cranked the heater and blasted the impressive 13-speaker Bose audio system. Roofless driving in low 50-degree temperatures was bearable. (Note: When the convertible top is stowed away, the already small trunk is basically nonexistent)
  • Infiniti's IPL-tweaked V6 looks great on paper, but it struggles to move the droptop with real authority. Blame a curb weight of 4,189 pounds - a whopping 400 pounds more than the IPL G Coupe - and a very uncooperative seven-speed automatic transmission. Peak horsepower and torque come late in the power band, yet the slushbox wants to shift early. While things are slightly better in Sport mode, or with the manual magnesium column-mounted paddle shifters, it doesn't feel nearly as quick in real-world driving as its published acceleration times would indicate. My overall average fuel economy was also a less-than-impressive 16.8 mpg.
  • Those goofy cannon-size exhaust tips (each is 4.75-inches across) deliver a drone that becomes downright annoying at some speeds. Even more frustrating, there is noticeable body flex - this is not a very stiff convertible - and minor squeaks and groans become evident when the road turns rough.
  • The upgraded suspension provides a harsh ride, but little else. The Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires are capable, but when pushed, their narrow front contact patches - only 225/60YR19 - quickly scrubbed in protest of the two-plus tons of mass abusing them. The brakes calipers are beefy, but the street-compound pads don't instill confidence.
  • A high sticker price, middling performance and other small annoyances really work against the Infiniti IPL G Convertible, especially when you consider that the same money will put a base BMW 335is Convertible, Audi S5 Cabriolet or even a Shelby GT500 Convertible in the driveway.

2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Preparing for the introduction of its new naming system and redesigned entry-level sedan, Infiniti has released a brief teaser video for the 2014 Q50. As a refresher, the Q50 is the replacement for the G37 sedan, and while we've seen spy shots of this car before, this video is our first detailed look at the production car.

All we get to see in the video is a shot of the headlight, but we get to see key elements like the stylish daytime running lights, crescent-shaped parking lights and adaptive low beams. The overall shape of the headlight is very close to what we saw earlier this year on the LE Concept. We have to wait until the Detroit Auto Show kicks off in a couple weeks to see the Q50's full design (although we're sure there will be some leaks before that point), but until then, check out the short video posted after the jump.

Continue reading Infiniti teases G-replacing Q50 ahead of Detroit debut

Infiniti teases G-replacing Q50 ahead of Detroit debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aside from certain naming-related news, Infiniti has actually had some decent product news to announce this week. The company's president, Johan de Nysschen, alluded to a new 550-horsepower performance sedan, and now the automaker has confirmed that a new "premium compact" will go into production in 2015. Based on the fact that this new model will be built alongside the Nissan Leaf at the automaker's Sunderland, UK assembly plant, we could only hope that it's a production version of the LE Concept (shown above).

Sunderland already produces Nissan products like the Qashqai, Juke and Note, and as a part of an investment of 250 million British pounds (around $406 million USD) for the new model, the plant would add an extra 280 jobs with the capacity to build 60,000 of the new Infinitis annually. Adding the premium compact at Sunderland means that Infiniti will have to change its plans for another new model, a bigger "C-segment hatchback," which could very well be a production version of the Etherea Concept.

Continue reading Infiniti confirms new "premium compact" to be built in UK

Infiniti confirms new "premium compact" to be built in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Infiniti caused quite a stir this week when it announced that it would be changing its vehicle names so that all of its cars start with Q and all of its crossovers and SUVs start with QX. Many displeased fans and owners took to social media to voice their opinions, and Johan de Nysschen, the new Infiniti boss, responded today with a Facebook post of his own.

In the note, de Nysschen talks about the challenge of product expansions with alphanumeric names that allow for flexibility without encroaching on the trademarked names of other automakers, although we're sure de Nysschen's former colleagues at Audi aren't looking forward to a Q30 or Q50. He also says that as Infiniti grows to become a global brand, the new naming structure - which closely mimics Volvo - is also designed to reduce confusion (just don't tell that to current owners). One thing that de Nysschen assured wouldn't happen is a confusing "X" added to the end of all-wheel-drive model names that would result in names like the Q60X or, even worse, the QX50X.

While we are not looking forward to relearning Infiniti's product lineup, de Nysschen has given us something to look forward to courtesy of a new performance sedan. From the brief explanation of this car, which was used as a key example in explaining the validity of the new names, we learned that the new model will be a performance version of what is now the M sedan, and it will be powered by a "charged induction" 3.0-liter V6 producing more than 550 horsepower. The M's name will become the Q70, but as of right now, it isn't clear if this will be an IPL model or something else.

Scroll down to read de Nysschen's response.

Continue reading Infiniti takes to Facebook to explain model names, mentions 550-hp flagship

Infiniti takes to Facebook to explain model names, mentions 550-hp flagship originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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