Autoblog

REPORT: Infiniti still mulling production Essence coupe

Chris Shunk — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Hybrid, Geneva Motor Show, Infiniti, Luxury

Infiniti Essence Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

When we first laid eyes on Infiniti's Essence concept at this year's Geneva Motor Show, we were, quite frankly, smitten by its voluptuous lines. We apparently weren't alone, as Infiniti exec Ben Poore has reportedly told Motor Trend that reaction to the concept was "phenomenal." When the Essence was unveiled, Infiniti told the audience at Geneva that the vehicle was concept-only and that future vehicles would be influenced by its stunning design. We were a bit disappointed by that news, because, of course, the world can never have too many stunning twin-turbo V6 hybrid coupes capable of a combined 592 brake horsepower.

But while we were let down by Infiniti's initial decision on Essence, we're at least encouraged by the fact that Poore recently told MT that that the concept is "only a show piece... for now." Could that mean that we could have a production vehicle based off of the Essence in the future? We hope so. Will it have a twin-turbo 3.7-liter V6 with a lithium-ion backed disc-shaped electric motor? Perhaps not, but we wouldn't exactly be disappointed if it did.

Gallery: Infiniti Essence Concept

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Infiniti Essence

[Source: Motor Trend]

REPORT: Infiniti still mulling production Essence coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Infiniti prepares special FX Millionaire Edition exclusively for Europe

Noah Joseph — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:40:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Europe, Crossover, Infiniti, Misc. Auto Shows, Luxury

Kudos to Infiniti. With seemingly every special edition model being blinged-up and chrome frosted inside and out, you'd figure something called the Millionaire Edition would be the most ostentatious thing on four wheels. But Nissan's luxury division has taken an entirely more understated approach with the 2010 Infiniti FX Millionaire Edition.

Instead of chrome or gold plating, the FX Millionaire gets dark graphite trim on the exterior, including the grille, air dam, 21-inch wheels and roof rails - as well as the window surrounds, from the look of it - complementing the Obsidian Black or White Moonlight paint schemes. Inside, it's all Alcantara micro-suede with brown stitching offset by carbon fiber, plus all the advanced features from the catalog, including sat-nav, Infiniti's excellent Around View Monitor system and Bose audio.

The package is available on either the FX37 or FX50, but only in Europe, with no more than 100 examples to be built. Equipped with the 390-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8, the FX50 Millionaire Edition sells in the price-inflated UK market for a princely €95,450 - about $144k in 'merican greenbacks, or more than twice the base price for us non-millionaires. On second thought, maybe we'll save those kudos for another time. The FX Millionaire Edition is being unveiled next week, appropriately enough, at Amsterdam's Millionaire Fair.

[Source: AutoWeek.nl]

Infiniti prepares special FX Millionaire Edition exclusively for Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2009: 2010 Infiniti G37 unveiled, 2011 QX coming and EV re-confirmed

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:27:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Infiniti, Electric

2010 Infiniti G37 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although the 2011 Infiniti M was the star of last night's show, as suspected, the wraps came off the 2010 Infiniti G37, a mid-cycle refresh of the automaker's bread-and-butter model.

It's far from a radical redesign, but as previously spied, the fog lamp clusters moved further down the reworked fascia, a new grille sits front and center and a tweaked rear bumper joins a new set of 17-inch, five-spoke wheels.

Inside, it's more of the same, with a nip here and a tuck there. White gauges and an LCD screen are the most obvious changes, along with a new center console, aluminum trim and available Maple accents. Real-time traffic and weather are included in the navigation system (XM subscription required), and everything's accessed through a seven-inch touch screen monitor that carries forward for 2010.

While we didn't see the new QX, Infiniti announced that its redesigned SUV is due to hit the U.S. early in 2010 and execs re-confirmed Infiniti's plans to offer a fully-electric vehicle in the future. They were mum on details, only saying that the EV would be ideal for a "dual vehicle family." Expect to see the all-new EV within the next year or two, but in the meantime, you can check out the 2010 Infiniti M at dealers in a few weeks after you've gotten an eyeful in the galleries below and read up on the details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Infiniti G37

Gallery: 2010 Infiniti G37

Continue reading LA 2009: 2010 Infiniti G37 unveiled, 2011 QX coming and EV re-confirmed

LA 2009: 2010 Infiniti G37 unveiled, 2011 QX coming and EV re-confirmed originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Infiniti M wraps tons of tech in an attractive wrapper, hybrid coming in mid-2010

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Infiniti, Luxury

2011 Infiniti M - Click above for high-res image gallery

Take a look over Infiniti's current line-up and two vehicles stand out: The M and the QX. Both vehicles have been soldiering on while the brand's volume models (G and FX) have undergone major redesigns, leaving Infiniti's flagship sedan and hulking SUV toiling away unchanged since 2003 and 2004, respectively.

Tonight, that changes.

We'll probably see a mildly tweaked G in So. Cal. while covering the LA Auto Show (an updated QX full-size SUV won't appear until later), but the star of the party is the 2011 Infiniti M. Due to go on sale next spring, the M will be available with two powerplants -- Infiniti's ubiquitous 3.7-liter V6 and a new 5.6-liter V8 -- each available with rear- or all-wheel drive and both packing enough electronic gizmos to make even the most hardened NASA engineer's head spin.

UPDATE: A hybrid version of the M will debut sometime in the middle of 2010. A live image gallery of the M56 has been added below, along with more high-res pics of both the Sport and Touring models. Also, scope out the sexiest door handles you'll see this week here.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Infiniti M

Gallery: 2011 Infiniti M

Continue reading 2011 Infiniti M wraps tons of tech in an attractive wrapper, hybrid coming in mid-2010

2011 Infiniti M wraps tons of tech in an attractive wrapper, hybrid coming in mid-2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #154

Dan Roth — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:10:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Podcasts, Etc., Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Episode #154 of the Autoblog Podcast is here for your tryptophan-addled pleasure. Chris, Sam, and Dan kick it, starting with the BMW 5 Series, then move on to such appetite supressants as the Lexus GX, Acura ZDX and its pricing, and Infiniti's re-style of the massive QX56 rig. Before we become an emetic, we move on to the pretty new Infiniti M, the ongoing anticipation for a US-bound Chevrolet Spark, and Hyundai's new 2.4 liter direct-injection 4 cylinder for the next Sonata. We hit some questions, and wrap it up in time for pie.

If you're looking to bulk up on podcast excellence over the Thanksgiving holiday, check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #154

Autoblog Podcast #154 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2009 Infiniti G37X Sport makes no excuses

Dan Roth — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Infiniti, Reviews, Luxury

2009 Infiniti G37X Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

"Being close" matters with horseshoes, hand grenades and misguided arithmetic. In past years, the Infiniti G sedan has been close, but compared to the Kaiser of the Klasse, BMW's 3 Series, the G35 was near the stake, but not a ringer. "Almost as good," we'd all nod, "but its biggest strength is that it's a bargain."

When the G37 arrived, our initial thought was it was simply an amplified G35, a car that's delighted our socks off in the past. But same car, bigger engine isn't the whole of the story. Just as gourmet chefs tinker with recipes, Infiniti has made adjustments. Embracing the spirit of Kaizen, Infiniti refuses to leave well enough alone, and the G37XS doesn't need to trade as heavily on its value proposition anymore. The G line has always driven well, but there's always been compromise, too. Cheap interiors, choppy ride - a history of "not quite." Has the G improved to the point of full greatness? And what happens when you add all-wheel drive to the mix? We hit the road to find out.

Gallery: Review: 2009 Infiniti G37x S Sedan

Continue reading Review: 2009 Infiniti G37X Sport makes no excuses

Review: 2009 Infiniti G37X Sport makes no excuses originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Electric Infiniti will stay true to brand's performance roots?

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Infiniti, Electric

After spending a product cycle honing its image, Infiniti doesn't want to to compromise it's standing in the luxury automobile set -- not even for its electric vehicles. That is why the "compact, high-performance, four-seat luxury Infiniti with zero emissions" that Carlos Ghosn announced at the Tokyo Auto Show will not alter what people have come to expect from Nissan's upmarket brand. If a VP in Infiniti's Business Unit, Ben Poore, is to be believed, it will enhance it.

"The model will fit perfectly with the performance standards that we've set for the brand," Poore said. We don't imagine it will be too difficult for Infiniti to simply electrify one of their vehicles and make it worthy -- we'd hop in an electric G37 in a second. The real challenge will be livability and longevity. Those challenges could be what Infiniti has in mind in not giving its electric car a release date, because they'll want to get it right... and maybe they want that time to perfect a four-door, electric Essence. Let the dreaming begin in three, two...

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: Electric Infiniti will stay true to brand's performance roots? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redesigned 2010 Infiniti G and 2011 QX joining M in LA

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Spy Photos, Coupe, Sedan, SUV, Infiniti, Luxury

Although Nissan and Infiniti won't have an official presence at next week's LA Auto Show, the luxury marque will unveil its 2011 M sedan at an event the night before the show and plans to webcast the proceedings at 7:00 pm PST on December 1.

Joining the thoroughly redesigned M on stage will be the updated 2010 Infiniti G and the oft-spied the 2011 Infiniti QX. Although official details haven't been released for either model, a set of promo shots have already leaked out, showing a slightly reworked fascia equipped with a few organic creases, new foglamp surrounds and a tweaked grille. The QX receives a similar, although much more elaborate redesign, with a bulging hood, acres of chrome and a canted D-pillar.

Powertrain and equipment details haven't been released yet, but expect all the information to be revealed in one week's time.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Next-gen Infiniti QX

[Source: Infiniti, The Infiniti Source]

Redesigned 2010 Infiniti G and 2011 QX joining M in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Nissan Fuga officially, silently takes to the road

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Japan, Videos, Nissan, Luxury

Nissan Fuga - Click above to watch the video after the break

You will soon be watching video of the Nissan Fuga running around a glorious rode somewhere empty and scenic. What's a Fuga? Well, here in the United States we'd call the Fuga the 2011 Infiniti M with tiny wheels. Regardless, the video gives you a 98% complete glimpse of what the new 5-Series fighter from Infiniti will look like in motion. And we think you'll agree, it looks good. Even with that Nissan badge and no sound whatsoever.

In fact, we could see Nissan bringing the Fuga over our way with a Maxima badge slapped on the trunk. Not only won't "Fuga" translate well in America, but ever since the Altima got all grown up (i.e. VQ'd), the once mighty Maxima has become sort of a directionless afterthought. But with both the mountain-leaping GT-R and iconic Z giving the Nissan brand oodles of performance credibility, wouldn't a rear-wheel drive flag(ish)ship sedan make some sense? Anyhow, that ain't happening - ever - so enjoy a preview of the all-new Infiniti M after the jump.

Continue reading VIDEO: Nissan Fuga officially, silently takes to the road

VIDEO: Nissan Fuga officially, silently takes to the road originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tokyo 2009: Nissan Fuga hybrid to arrive in Japan late 2010, U.S. in 2011

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Technology, Tokyo Motor Show, Infiniti

2010 Nissan Fuga Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

After several years of selling small volumes of its Altima sedan using Toyota's hybrid drive system, Nissan is finally ready to roll out its first gas-electric model using technology developed in-house. The first model to be so equipped will be the new Fuga sedan, a car sold in North America as the Infiniti M.

Unlike the electronic CVT systems used by Toyota, Ford and General Motors, Nissan has opted to configure its system using a conventional automatic transmission - in this case, a seven-speed unit. The electric drive is provided by a single motor sandwiched between the engine and the transmission. A pair of electronically controlled clutches sit on either side of the motor allowing the engine or the engine/motor combination to be completely de-coupled from the transmission.

According to Nissan, the motor has an output of 50 kW (67 horsepower) and 270 Nm (200 pound-feet) of torque, and the system is able to propel the Fuga/M electrically at speeds of up 62 mph. The engine is a 3.5-liter version of Nissan's renowned VQ V6 modified to run with an Atkinson cycle for greater efficiency.

Koichi Hayasaki, senior manager of Nissan's hybrid program, tells us that the final numbers on the engine output as well as the net combined output won't be released until sometime in 2010. As is the way these days, energy storage needs are handled by a lithium ion battery pack using the same kind of modules that are going into the LEAF EV.

The Infiniti M hybrid is expected to arrive in the U.S. sometime in 2011 as a 2012 model.

Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 2010 Nissan Fuga Hybrid

Tokyo 2009: Nissan Fuga hybrid to arrive in Japan late 2010, U.S. in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tokyo 2009: Nissan confirms three EVs for production, including Infiniti

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:44:00 EST

Filed under: Tokyo Motor Show, Infiniti, Nissan, Electric

Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn with Leaf EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're here at the Tokyo Motor Show, where CEO Carlos Ghosn has just confirmed that Nissan, Renault's Japanese alliance partner, will boast a lineup of at least three electric vehicles in the next few years - and a fourth vehicle is also possible. We already know about the Leaf hatchback (above) that was unveiled back in August. In addition, Nissan will build an electric version of the NV200 light commercial van that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show. For the first time, Ghosn also confirmed that Infiniti will get a compact four-passenger sedan powered only by batteries.

No other information was available on this car, but Ghosn did say that it would be unveiled in the near future. In all likelihood, the Infiniti will be based on the Leaf platform that is designed for purely electric drive. The fourth model that is being considered for production is the Land Glider concept that was shown publicly for the first time here this morning.

Gallery: 2010 Nissan Leaf EV

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Nissan confirms three EVs for production, including Infiniti

Tokyo 2009: Nissan confirms three EVs for production, including Infiniti originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Infiniti working on premium compact electric car?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Infiniti, Rumormill, Electric, Luxury

According to British auto mag Auto Express, Infiniti is in the midst of designing a new small car that would potentially go up against the BMW 1 Series, Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz B-Class. Soon, we'll likely be adding a small hybrid hatchback to that mix from Lexus in the vein of the LF-Ch concept shown last month at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

If there's any truth to this rumor, Infiniti is joining Lexus in going green, but instead of adopting a hybrid drivetrain, Nissan's premium brand will reportedly use a fully electric platform. Logic would seemingly dictate that the entry-level Infiniti would be based on the Nissan Leaf electric car, which is slated to begin sales late in 2010.

While we're not convinced the electric Infiniti hatchback is indeed in the offing, it's certainly possible Nissan would extend its small electric platform to its premium nameplate in order to recoup a bit more of its sizable investment into the electric car's technology. If so, expect to see the battery-powered Infiniti hit the market around 2012.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: Infiniti working on premium compact electric car? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Infiniti QX getting the FX treatment

Noah Joseph — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 12:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Infiniti, Luxury

Next-gen Infiniti Qx - Click above for high-res image gallery of spy shots

Based on the gargantuan Nissan Armada, the Infiniti QX56 is one big beast of an SUV. Especially next to the svelte FX, and even more so now that the EX has joined the line-up. Keeping such a goliath of a truck looking fresh is a challenge unto itself, but Nissan's luxury division is apparently working on it.

The biggest thing to hit Tempe since Super Bowl XXX, this QX test mule was spied by one of our intrepid readers while apparently undergoing hot weather testing around the Phoenix suburb. The vehicle in question, as you can see, is wearing heavy camo, but appears to carry the same pronounced grille as the current model, albeit with more angular headlights to mimic its little brothers. The rear end appears to be undergoing a restyling as well, while the C-pillar-mounted rear door handle - a hallmark of Nissan sport-utes in the Pathfinder family - have apparently moved to the more conventional position. That's about all we can surmise about the behemoth hiding underneath that Michelin Man suit, but you can have a look for yourself in the exclusive gallery of spy shots below. Thanks for sending these in, Justin!

Gallery: Spy Shots: Next-gen Infiniti QX

Spy Shots: Infiniti QX getting the FX treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Nissan Land Glider could come to the States as an Infiniti

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:32:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan, Motorcycle, Specialty, Electric

Nissan Land Glider Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Concept cars tend to push the boundaries of what is and isn't possible with a four-wheeled vehicle. Such is the case with the Nissan Land Glider -- a 47-inch cross between a motorcycle and a car, with an enclosed cabin, a glass canopy and passenger compartment that leans into turns for added stability -- going on display this week at the Tokyo Motor Show. Usually, such far-out-there concepts make the auto show circuit before being abandoned somewhere in the corner of a dark, dingy warehouse, but perhaps not this one.

According to Automotive News, there are some inside the Japanese automaker that suggest the fully electric car could slot into the company's upmarket Infiniti lineup, possibly even making it to the United States. If that happens, the Land Glider may be a single-seater, as the concept's single rear passenger perch may not make it through safety testing.

We'd be pretty surprised to see a production Infiniti Land Glider that keeps the concept's unique layout, but it certainly wouldn't be the only strange-looking eco-friendly automobile to hit the market. We'll see...

Gallery: Nissan Land Glider Concept

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Nissan Land Glider could come to the States as an Infiniti originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Infiniti confirms production of 2012 M35 Hybrid

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:18:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Performance, Japan, Technology, Tokyo Motor Show, Infiniti, Luxury

2010 Nissan Fuga/Infiniti M35 Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Looks like Infiniti is getting more serious about taking on Lexus. Back in August we saw the M get "virtually revealed" at Pebble Beach. We've also been following the tale of the upcoming JDM-only new Nissan Fuga, a car which is virtually identical to Infiniti's M. Then of course Inside Line dropped the M-bomb when they published pics of both the M56 and M37x after their secret pre-production test drive. Meaning we know there's going to be a 400+ hp 5.6-liter V8 M56, a VQ engined M37 (with around 330 hp -- as much or more than the V8 in the outgoing M45 makes) and M37x (x = AWD). There's also a diesel M aimed at Europe. But today we learn there is another.

Specifically, there will be a M35 Hybrid. This will be the first hybrid Infiniti and it's aimed squarely at slow selling Lexus GS400h. Infiniti claims that the hybrid parts will "add to" and not "take away from" the driving experience. As such, there's a Nissan-developed single motor and a twin clutch hooked up to the same output shaft as the engine. This should result in an uninterrupted power flow to the transmission no matter which mode the hybrid system is in. There's also a "laminated" lithium-ion battery that not only stores twice as much power as nickel-metal hydride units, but cools more quickly because of the "lamination." Look for the M35 Hybrid to hit dealers around this time next year as a 2012 model, and a full reveal of the car later this month at the Tokyo Motor Show. And now, where's the new Q?

Gallery: Nissan Fuga Hybrid (Infiniti M35 Hybrid)

[Source: Nissan]

Infiniti confirms production of 2012 M35 Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hand-painted G37 Coupe inspired by Cirque du Soleil commemorates Infiniti's 20th Anniversary [w/VIDEO]

Frank Filipponio — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:56:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Etc., Infiniti, Specialty, Design/Style

Infiniti G37 Anniversary Art Project Vehicle by Montreal artist Heidi Taillefer - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW, eat your art out - Infiniti can do art cars too! At the 14th Annual Canadian Art Gallery Hop Gala in Toronto, Infiniti of Canada unveiled their G37 Anniversary Art Project Vehicle. It's a Infiniti G37 Sport Coupe that has been painted by Montreal artist Heidi Taillefer. The car was decorated to celebrate Infiniti's 20th anniversary, but the Japanese automaker worked with Cirque du Soleil on the project.

So, how does the artistic Canadian entertainment company fit into the picture? Cirque du Soleil is also celebrating an important anniversary, their 25th, and the paintwork adorning the car (which took over 300 hours to complete) was inspired by the offbeat circus. The car is also going to appear at select Cirque events in Canada in the future, and the ultimate plan is to auction the car off for charity.

Follow the jump and you can see a video of Taillefer performing her magic during the month-long project she calls "Ligozzi." Look for the Anniversary Infiniti at future Cirque du Soleil shows. If you can't make it, you can check out the high-res gallery below - and don't forget to click through to the video and to read the full press release from Infiniti Canada.

Gallery: G37 Anniversary Art Project Vehicle

[Source: Infiniti]

Continue reading Hand-painted G37 Coupe inspired by Cirque du Soleil commemorates Infiniti's 20th Anniversary [w/VIDEO]

Hand-painted G37 Coupe inspired by Cirque du Soleil commemorates Infiniti's 20th Anniversary [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Infiniti M35 and M56 get a special reveal

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Infiniti, Luxury

Infiniti's "swoopy anger" design language has made it to the M line, and InsideLine got some seat time in the V8-powered, rear-wheel drive, M56 and the six-cylinder, all-wheel-drive M37x. The M56 is, of course, the monster of the two and kinda looks it. The black hue and 20-inch wheels makes all the difference on the outside, giving the 400+ horsepower V8 sedan the sporting chops to make you go "Hmmm." The interior continues the curves, and the contrasting color scheme appears to create a very rewarding three-dimensional cabin.

The M37x is reportedly worth about 325 hp, and will end up being the middle in the range, just above a rear-wheel-drive model below it. Seven-speed autos will get the power to the ground in every model. Edmunds wasn't allowed to give driving impressions, but they did get lots of photos, so head on over to get a good look at the next M.

[Source: Straight Line]

2011 Infiniti M35 and M56 get a special reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Detroit Auto Show main floor is full, recession officially OVER

Chris Shunk — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 09:13:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Infiniti, Nissan, Porsche

The 2009 North American International Auto Show was a bit of a disaster. The very difficult and uncertain economic conditions resulted in several high-profile automakers dropping out of the exhibition. Among the absent automakers were Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi and Porsche, and a quick jaunt around Cobo's main floor revealed the empty spaces left by those big-time players. The future of the Detroit Auto Show is already looking brighter, however, with the approval of a much-needed overhaul of Cobo Hall, and more good news is coming in the way of a full main floor.

Detroit show organizers aren't yet ready to tip their hand as to which automakers will be attending the show, but among those likely to return are Nissan and Infiniti, as Japan's number three automaker is just too big to stay out of the North American International Auto Show two years in a row. The Detroit Free Press reports that Porsche has been unhappy with the lack of major media coverage at the L.A. Auto Show, and the German automaker could turn to Detroit to get its media fix. Porsche could also find itself sharing space with its new parent, Volkswagen.

While Detroit looks bring back some automakers that were lost last year, North America's biggest auto show could also bring in some newcomers. Fiat's partnership/ownership of Chrysler could mean that Fiat and Alfa Romeo models wind up parked near the Chrysler booth. India's Mahindra group, which is looking to sell trucks and SUVs here in the States, could be another option, as could China's BYD. We're really looking forward to this year's NAIAS, and it will be nice to once again see a full main floor. Another Detroit January, on the other hand, is something we can do without.

[Source: The Detroit Free Press]

2010 Detroit Auto Show main floor is full, recession officially OVER originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 Sep 2009 09:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 Infiniti QX56 caught on show

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Infiniti, Off-Road

2011 Infiniti QX56 - Click either image for a gallery

The 2011 Infiniti QX56 went on display in the Middle East and some stealthy soul caught a couple of close-up pics from the front and rear three-quarter. It's a much smoother vehicle than the one it replaces, ditching the arcs for hard angles. It also sheds finicky styling cues like the current vehicle's slightly contorted C-pillar arrangement, going for an uninterrupted window line rimmed by a chrome strip. Head on, though, it's grille-tastic.

Body elements like flaring arches are more integrated, and the chrome strip running down the side has been omitted. The rear is an FX-ified version of the new Nissan Patrol, and the package rides on anice set of Infiniti's trademark wheels. We aren't sure if it will turn the QX56's sales numbers around, but stranger things have happened... Hat tip to Drew

[Source: VW Vortex]

Spy Shots: 2011 Infiniti QX56 caught on show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan reportedly readying Quest minivan and Infiniti QX56 replacements for next year

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, SUV, Infiniti, Nissan

Infiniti QX56 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last we heard, Nissan was rumored to be dumping its Quest minivan along with the Armada large SUV and its platform-mate from Infiniti, the QX56. Conventional wisdom suggested that the Japanese automaker may source its next SUV platform from Dodge since the two automakers had planned to tie up on their next fullsize pickups.

As you probably know, the previously-announced relationship between Nissan and the Pentastar is no longer in the works. As such, if Nissan's going to put out another large SUV, it's going to need its own platform. Somewhat surprisingly given the overall state of the SUV market in America - sales of Infiniti's oversize 'ute are down 41.2 percent so far this year - Wards Auto is reporting that Nissan is indeed readying a new QX56 for next year.

Also in the offing will reportedly be a new generation of the largely unloved Quest minivan. If you thought the QX56 was underperforming in its market, the Quest is even worse - down 56.8 percent though August - and that's from a not-terribly-impressive baseline in a shrinking segment. Still, it seems Nissan wants to compete on equal footing against the Honda Odyssey and the Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country twins, so we're interested to see what they come up with the next time 'round.

Gallery: 2008 Infiniti QX56

[Source: Wards Auto]

Nissan reportedly readying Quest minivan and Infiniti QX56 replacements for next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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