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Showing posts with label Infiniti. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Infiniti. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

New Infiniti FX Concept Performance engine

New Infiniti FX Concept Performance engineNew Infiniti FX Concept Performance engine, At the awards ceremony contest «Car of the Year 2009» flagship Infiniti FX model line has been recognized as the best SUVs-SUV in 2009.

For the first time submitted to the world public at the Geneva Motor 2008 he won the hearts of connoisseurs of the brand Infiniti through stylish sports design, unrestrained dynamics and impeccable technical characteristics.

Under the elegant appearance of aggressive FX hides no less than a perfect technical toppings: along with the new 5-liter engine (400 hp) and 7-speed Automatic in the new Infiniti FX presents the revolutionary development of the company in the area of comfort and security.

New Infiniti FX Concept Performance engine
The top layer of paint «Protection from scratches»

The body of the new model is covered with special FX «self-recovering» transparent layer of paint to protect the glossy shine. This paint «restore» paintwork scratches the surface after the light to almost original condition.

Around the monitor (Around View Monitor)
In the monitor around the Infiniti FX uses ultra low-carbon cell, set by the front, rear and sides to create FX around the potential sites on all sides of the vehicle, which eliminates the dead zone in the parking lot. The system applies advanced image processing technology to produce a unique type of vehicle with a bird's-eye view.

New Infiniti FX Concept Performance engine

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Crossover Infiniti FX represents a unique driving of aggressive design

Crossover Infiniti FX represents a unique driving of aggressive designCrossover Infiniti FX represents a unique driving of aggressive design, Grass-snake 2DAY, thanks to high technologies, engineers of the company managed to create one of the most dynamical and indicative a distributing frame-overov of the premium-class, existing on the up-to-date automobile market. Crossover Infiniti FX represents a unique driving of aggressive design, dazzling performances and comfort of the passenger car.

"From the moment of the emergence in American market FX has occupied a leading position on such indexes as style, power, a multifunction and technical innovations", - Mark Ajgo (Mark Igo), the Vice-president and general manager Infiniti Division SPK. - "In 2006 And it is real, versions FX of 2007 are an example perfection of design, technics and constructing.

The sample piece is offered in two alternatives: FX45 and FX35.
All-wheel drive FX45 it is riged with standard 4,5-litre propeller DOHC V8 W ultimate output of 328 h.p., new 20-inch wheels and tyres, leather interior, and also the updated "sports" independent suspender of all four wheels W new absorbers.
FX35 It is equipped with propeller V6 W a displacement 3,5 l. The propeller develops ultimate output of 280 h.p. and the max twisting moment of 363 Nanometers.

Crossover Infiniti FX represents a unique driving of aggressive design
All FX45 and FX35 are riged with up-to-date electronic system of reconstituting of a twisting moment (ATTESA E-TS?). This system grounded on an innovative guidance system, automatically pitchs 2 wheels an optimum twisting moment depending on a status of road and driving conditions. ATTESA E-TS? Ensures to the car outstanding performances at driving in turning movement thanks to an optimum ratio of the twisting moment passed to the front and rear bridge (from 50:50 B4 0:100).

The design of the car does not yield to its technical characteristics.
Outside FX looks wide and aggressive: such appearance is created by the long low drag cowl, a plain roof and a transparent top hatch.

Five-seater interior FX is a synthesis of fabricability, comfortability and elegance. The hide covering, heating up of front seats, function of storage of resettings, lumbar support, and a steering wheel electrically driven resettings on altitude and a slope - are normal equipment FX. All sample pieces differ an unusual multifunction thanks to a large baggage compartment W friend access 4 loading/discharge; to harmonious pillion seats W friend crandles of clampers.

As, the rear-view camera which one pitchs the plotting of room behind the car to the display goes into the standard complete equipment of all versions Infiniti FX. Infiniti FX not only is bright outbreak in the field of design, it is practicality SUV W character of a sports car, and this car is capable to meet the requirements the most exacting user.

Crossover Infiniti FX represents a unique driving of aggressive design

Premium-brand Infiniti-19 years already sells products in different countries

Premium-brand Infiniti-19 years already sells products in different countriesPremium-brand Infiniti-19 years already sells products in different countries, Premium-brand Infiniti, a member of the Japanese auto group Nissan, 19 years already sells its products in the markets of different countries, among which appear even China, Ukraine and Mexico. However, so far mark is not made in Europe. The first country where cars appear Infiniti, will be Spain. Sales start here in October this year, so the company has already identified with prices for some models. For example, the G37 sedan in base instrument will cost Spaniards in the 42 500 euros.

Premium-brand Infiniti-19 years already sells products in different countriesPremium-brand Infiniti-19 years already sells products in different countries, Note that the entire European model lineup, except for the FX50, equipped with a 3.7 - liter V6 engine with a system of adjusting the height of recovery valves VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift). And for Europe FX50 crossover completed 5 - liter V8.

Premium-brand Infiniti-19 years already sells products in different countries

New Infiniti EX35 Price

New  Infiniti EX35 PriceNew Infiniti EX35 Price, Infiniti Mark was always associated me with the words «high», «beautiful» and the «comfortable». It was interesting, whether it is true, because to the train on them, I could not. Appeared before me crossover Infiniti EX35 Elite for a few seconds brought me into a state of passion - apparently he was so good that, in addition to «vauuu», in the head does no longer occur.

EX35 hatchback
looks a little more, so call it a crossover as it does not rotate the language:). Beautiful smoothed bodywork, sporty and taut appearance, zauzhennye the headlights, neformatnaya looks - all these details make the car a very attractive and ambitious. I even thought that such a machine should be like all, especially the female sex, it is for us it was created!

Affected the appearance of a small crossover, I do not know what to think about its internal equipment. Here I will focus more in detail. ... Open the door of the driver's seat presented to me his chocolate leather trim. Having opened his mouth, I slowly popolzla on the driver's seat, where I had to spend 20 minutes to inspect the internal sites. They have a lot of Infiniti EX35.

The interior of the crossover looks lush and expensive. Amazing beautiful leather trim colors «chocolate», in conjunction with high-quality soft plastics in black, thick and comfortable seats with lateral support, beautiful analog clock «Infiniti», combined with wood front panel, elegant aluminum border - all are done with taste and at the highest level . The quality is even through the olfactory system, because the air entering the cabin from the street, cleaned the filter with a built-ionizer. In the dark, you can even be dissolved in the visual pleasure - so impressive, high volume scatters light-violet illumination devices!

It is gratifying that the mirrors mounted lanterns, lit area near the front door, pleased that the pendant does not need to get out of his pocket - start the engine with the button Start, and am pleased that someone would not be sitting in your car before you, electric with memory automatically lead "job" in the driver's desired position.

To complete the picture is not enough just to ride on the dynamic «baby». The machine we received the V6 engine with a volume of 3.5 liters (302 hp) and the five-«machine». Settings seats, mirrors, steering with the help of electronics took me a few seconds.

«Well, in the way» - I thought and revom motor vehicle accelerated at a meeting of twilight. EX35 goes simply amazing. To place the machine speed for 6.9 seconds, leaving all competitors at the traffic light beyond the horizon. Roar of the engine when «waggery» almost inaudible. Machine vgryzaetsya confidently on the road, well kept straight, the wheel does not knock out of the hands and tyazheleet with fast driving. «Poshahmatit» on such a machine is easy to manage, the car is clearly responding to the rapid reconstruction of, and excellent brakes if necessary. Even at the speed of the machine is clearly in the turns, and the squeal of tires, only adding in one. But do not get carried away, because the system Stability VSC instantly put you in place.

New  Infiniti EX35 Price
Yes, and even the security company Infiniti did not forget. In standard equipment includes a full set of airbags, ABS, EBD, BA, VDC, TCS, TPMS. If you fail all of these abbreviations? I, too, but the main thing - all this is done, to the maximum to secure your stay at the wheel.

And about the views of the neighboring cars and say no - any girl in this elegant car looks playfully and confidently.

At the holes, and hole country roads EX35 cease to be comfortable, and the heart stops to think that any of these pits can bring excellent «baby» at the bottom. No, this so-called crossover created exclusively for the city. Why rape the car and experience the unpleasant feeling when you can enjoy fully the wonderful ride through the city?

Places in the EX35 is not too much, but not enough. In the trunk is quite vlezut all the supplies for children or a trip to the store. If you want to translate bulky cargo, the rear seats can be folded by pressing the button in the wall of the luggage. And to raise the back seat can not got out of the driver's seat - the buttons are duplicated on the central panel. Rear seats last couple of girlfriends or children, but adults tall men do not advise - nizkovat ceiling.

When I was troubled a large parking «nose» machines, but by the order, the entire perimeter of the machine is monitored by four cameras. Two of them are hidden in the external mirrors, and two more - in the vicinity of the front and rear emblems. Obtained from the computer converts the data into a single volumetric image. You can also separately view the image from the side chambers, which will help not scratch expensive disks on curbs.

Another «fishechka» Infiniti EX35 - paint coating that can "live" minor scratches, ie if you erased the top layer of lacquer - a special resin will fill the damaged area and «voila» - as a new machine:).

Competitors in the class of small crossovers «deluxe» Infiniti have a lot - Volvo XC60, Mercedes-Benz GLK, Audi Q5, but the prices are different.

Price Infiniti EX35 nothing less - 2 million rubles. For example: when buying a Volvo or Audi, you can meet the 1.5 million If you have a priority, practicality and functionality, this machine is hardly priglyanetsya you, but if you are young and willing soul «poschegolyat», with a few extra million reserve, the this machine - what is needed. After all, it is excellent expensive shoes, which at the foot did not even feel it - it just carries you.

Yegor Dobrovol'skii: «Infiniti EX - Crossover-egoist!» Infiniti EX is made on the same philosophy as the «starshenky» FX: fashion, boldly, without regard to practicality and for quality athletic. To do this, do not even have to sit behind the wheel and drive: one looks only confirms this view. Why? The proportions of all matter in the same proportions ...

Outwardly, the car and really, let's say, a compact, even a little. Against the background of any competitor whether Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60 "Japanese» looks too tiny and, most importantly, no harmony in the external style: the long hood and small cabin with a heavy stern. But like with like Infiniti EX glamor public. And it happens in part because of the dear image of the brand Infiniti, and then tastes in people, as we know different. However, Infiniti EX mostly like girls accounted for, namely «devchachey» part of it though otbavlyay: soft, dutye sides, stretched wings headlights head light plus the weight bizhyuterii of chromium in the lattice falshradiatornoy and luggage linings, and of how to resist to fashion the rear lights with the LEDs.

EX outwardly seem uncomfortable, and this impression is reinforced when you try to quickly and easily get onto the driver's seat not to mention the process of landing on the second row. The door opening is wide, but the low roof, and front desk too overwhelmed, and the seat is set low, so that prolezt inside comfortably either lady, or subtilny dyadenka.

New  Infiniti EX35 Price
Of course, claims to the quality of car interior decoration of this level can not be that proper and podverzhdaet experience with Infiniti EX: soft plastic coffee-colored skin and gently creates a special atmosphere that only the inherent luxurious «Japanese». And massive insertion of a tree here in the topic, they are not dull, that reinforces the sense of the high cost of the car.

Sitting at the driver's seat, it becomes clear that the rear passengers are not to be envied. Even the man behind the average growth space for the legs to be butt, shizkaya roof appreciable pressure on the head, and shoulders at once zhmet. But the front seats with power-have a wide range of adjustments. In addition, ergonomics of the EX really good: it's a lot of buttons, but they are convenient and offer sound symbolism. Using an interactive menu system may not be as easy as when dealing with analog technology at the German machines, and all the same: to get to a section, you can not removing attention from driving.

If, however, behind the wheel started strapping the driver, then behind him would not be able to sit down, even a child. Back of the front seat cushions from the rear will be separated in this case, ten centimeters - the word, Infiniti of four cars turned into a triple.

Perturbation is the sham trunk, which is enough in the best case for a couple of small bags. 309 L - it is very little crossover, but vpihnut here even more difficult case, and because of the narrow aperture luggage. Moreover, it does not have Infiniti electric rear door.

But what pleasant emotions gives dynamics Infiniti and its 302-strong 3,5-liter V-shaped «Six». This evil character of teddy EX just not waiting: motor is still a transmission is engaged, whether dispersal from their seats or with speed, he does not care: a wave of hurricane strength narkryvaet immediately and continued unabated with increasing speed. Overtaking are simple, but with a rhythm of the engine consumes fuel by 20 liters and above.

Stiff suspension, minimum heel in turns and precise steering tuned - more than a dream man who prefers an active style of driving. By the way, the behavior of Infiniti and asphalt, and ice is beyond praise. The car is understandable and predictable. But the suspension is tight and costs - a low driving comfort. Even small defects in the pavement suspension reacts badly.

Naturally Infiniti EX is equipped with a full drive, like most crossovers in general. In an Infiniti electronically controlled clutch. In normal mode, rear wheel drive car, but on a signal ESP connects the front axle. This is a small and almost imperceptible delay, but these settings require a rear wheel drive behavior in the fast turn: EX willingly fails to skid, then gently connects the front axle, but still more than a moment ago. As a result, you can even pass in turn controlled by the gas and wheel slip, because ESP can be completely disabled.

In general, if you're interested in a car full of contradictions weaving, but at a price that, on average, for topovouyu version of Elite is more than 2 100 000 rub. It is close to the best models for business-class, which, believe me, they can go no worse than, the this is your personal choice that nobody has the right to challenge.

New Infiniti Plan For festival of Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California

New Infiniti Plan For festival of Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in CaliforniaNew Infiniti Plan For festival of Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California, In mid-August, the company Infiniti is planning a "virtual" presentation medium-size sedan M next generation of the annual festival of Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California.

The car did not demonstrate to the auto, its image would be projected to the full-size model. Samou car show, only in December this year, while its sales start in the spring of 2010, writes Japancar.ru.

New Infiniti Plan For festival of Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in CaliforniaInfiniti M equip six-cylinder engine volume of 3.7 liters and the turbo-diesel trehlitrovoy "six." Also, you may receive a hybrid version of the gasoline-electric power plant. But not known whether a hybrid of the European market.

New Infiniti Plan For festival of Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California

New Infiniti Essence Concept Design And Performance

New Infiniti Essence Concept Design And PerformanceNew Infiniti Essence Concept Design And Performance, Infiniti Essence - it is a conceptual model that embodied the quintessence of the brand Infiniti, the essence of which lies in an effort to meet the demands of the most demanding automotive enthusiast.

The model, created to celebrate the 20 th anniversary of brand Infiniti, first presented at the 79m International Motor Show in Geneva. She became not only a reminder of the successes of the covered way, but at the same time - audacious attempt to look at the future of the brand.

This is a hybrid rear wheel drive coupe with power of 600 hp with a gasoline engine and electric motor, a unique design and a set of emerging technologies. Essence What exactly is not - this is the usual gift Infiniti brand to your own birthday.

New Infiniti Essence Concept Design And Performance
The concept embodies the fusion core brand values, priotkryvaya future and absorbed all the best achievements of the past. In Essence debuted a number of innovative technologies, including hybrid (petrol plus electric), as well as design features that will distinguish future models of Infiniti.

This concept is embodied the main postulate of philosophy Infiniti - "Inspired Performance" (The power of inspiration), which will become the driving force for the release of this model in the luxury segment of the super-coupe. It will also help strengthen the position of Infiniti in the most exclusive and emotional world of automobile brands.

Essence began his life is not in the design studio, a product planning department at Infiniti. Francois Bankon, General Manager of Product Planning the future, and his team may not even be anticipated at the outset of development, as will appear Essence, but they knew how it should be, and why it is so, and knew who he might like .

New Infiniti Essence Concept Design And Performance
Concept demonstrates, who may become future owners of this super-luxurious coupe. Bankon and his team of developers to build a picture of a typical scrupulous owner of Essence. The result was a loving portrait of a risk, uncompromising connoisseur the very best in life at the age of 42 years. «He did not need to flaunt their acquisition», said Bankon. «He is already on the next level of success, which is valued above all, to bring pleasure to yourself».

Francois Bankon continues: «We are looking for a new way of mixing different ingredients to create a car that reflects what is fashionable today, but it gives an opportunity to see the trends of the future. We wanted to create a car that is meant to be a cult. It must be exclusive, thoughtful and charming. For the driver, he must embody the essence of Essence (ie, the essence of Essence), expressed by the words: «All that I want and nothing that I do not want».

In terms of design and Essence is simple and surprisingly complex, and it looks like a classic car, and extremely dynamic at the same time. He radiates a strength and elegance. This car is one of those who saw one, you will not forget.

Infiniti designers are confident that the functionality of the car must be invisible, and will be used only when necessary. They call it a «hidden appliances». This name is reflected in functional minimalism, prevailing in the design of instruments and controls. Essence is not the driver makes mess of buttons and not to overload him with information and creates a pleasant atmosphere, allowing you to concentrate on getting the pleasure of driving.

The car had a feeling of luxury and warm hospitality thanks to the materials used, such as leather, Alcantara, wood, painted by hand by traditional Japanese lacquer products. Attention to detail is so great that even the skin on the backside of the right and left seats look different. Why? This is a reflection of the different methods used by Japanese men and women in kimono zapahivaya.

Essence Engine and transmission are designed to conform to the highest level of expectations of potential owners of this model. And they would like to get the absolute pleasure of driving. In Essence this pleasure raised to new heights, so this model debuted an innovative hybrid technology.

At Essence debuted a new type of electric motor, which is called 3D Motor, developed by taking into account the stringent requirements for size and power. As a result, the only engine in the form of a thin disk has twice as much torque as compared to conventional electric motors. Its design was created as a result of the analysis of three-dimensional magnetic field for the optimization of electromagnetic and permanent magnet rings.

Globally, the Infiniti brand has pledged to create a reliable car, equipped with the most advanced security systems.

At the Essence the first time presents the innovative technology in this field, guaranteeing that Infiniti cars remain one of the safest on the road. Foremost among them is the technology, called «The Shield Security» (Safety Shield), the appearance of which require long years of development aimed at creating an accident-free vehicle, which engineers have dreamed of Infiniti.

«Shield Security» complements two other new technologies to the already available at Infiniti of modern technology: the system of assistance to keep a distance Distance Control Assist (DCA) and the system designed to prevent escape lanes Lane Departure Prevention (LDP). The other two systems - system designed to prevent the side collision Side Collision Prevention (SCP) and the collision prevention system at the rear of Back-up Collision Prevention (BCP) extend to the «shield» around the machine, to prevent accidents.

If you change lanes Sensors System SCP, incorporated on the sides of the car, activate the alert system, if in the band, which intends to change the driver, identified approaching vehicle. Then, through an individual control system activates the braking of each wheel turning mechanism to prevent collisions. System Back-up Collision Prevention works the same way, identifying the location of another vehicle from behind, warning the driver, and then, if the warning is ignored, will use the brakes automatically.

At the creation of Essence lasted 20 years. This means the time it took to make the essence - its very existence, the quintessence of everything that embodies the Infiniti - was able to reach the current level of perfection. The idea of creating Infiniti first appeared in 1985, but its real birth was only in November 1989 when Infiniti first car was sold in North America. Today it is the fastest growing luxury brand in the United States.

New Infiniti Essence Concept Design And Performance
But Infiniti - it is more than the American brand. Today, Infiniti has more than 230 dealerships in 15 countries with global sales of 150 000 vehicles per year.

The success Infiniti brand obliged a number of factors, but one of the most important is the "Dynamic Adeyaka", the ideology behind each car Infiniti. The combination of ideology and of the privileged Adeyaka Customer Service Total Ownership Experience in the result becomes the basis for the three basic concepts that distinguish Infiniti: driving pleasure, the hospitality and tranquility at the wheel.

New Infiniti Essence Concept Design And Performance
These three values of the brand found its perfect reflection in the conceptual model of Essence, debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009. Her debut, not only coincides with the anniversary of twenty marks, but is a response to the question of how to achieve success in the European market.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Infiniti G37 convertible will be available in November


The company Infiniti plans to launch the Infiniti series production G37 coupe versions open early next year. This is stated in an official communication companies, circulated on Thursday.

World debut of new items planned for November this year and will take place in the showroom in Los Angeles, and in that car sales will appear in mid-2009. The public version Infiniti G37 will get tough emerging roof, consisting of three parts, and its main competitor will be BMW 3-Series with the same type of body. The engine for the coupe-cabriolet pozaimstvuyut from the same compartment Infiniti - it will be 330 - a strong volume of 3.7 liter V6.

In addition, next year at the Infiniti G37 coupe version will appear with a system full of drive ATTESA E-TS, and instead of six "machine" for all cars Series G (including sedan) will be fitted seven-speed transmissions.

Infiniti M has exposed to severe finishings


Infiniti M became even more perfect: the sample piece of 2008 has exposed to severe finishings. It has received intellectual all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS and propeller V8 in size of 4,5 litres. Now buyers will choose from two sample pieces: new M45 and previous M35.

In M45 the interior has varied - the interior became more magnificent and friend. Safety Infiniti M above all praises: the vehicle have equipped with hi-tech system LDP. Among pleasant options 2 the updated navigation, the drive in size 9,3 ??, Bluetooth and the 7-inch LCD-shield.

Outside the front bumper, a crate, rear head lamps and other parts of a basket have exposed to finishing. The vehicle has received new 18-inch and 19-inch sports wheels from an aluminium alloy, writes Topspeed.

Test-drive 2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan

Recently, Infiniti persistently tries to ensure that its cars have become popular in Western Europe. The powerful diesel engine for its cars still under development, the company equips all of its European car series G is also quite good petrol V6. Recent advances in this area - 3.7 liters. VQ37VHR V6, which works under the hood 2008 G37 Coupe. And it is obvious that the new G37 Sedan engine is not worse.

So, we finally get the long-awaited 2009 Infiniti G37 Sedan. Another technical innovation, which can boast of this car - the seven-speed automatic transmission, which replaced a six-speed machining (it was last year's model is equipped with a machine)

However, none of these improvements do not make the new G37 is much faster than its predecessor. However, progress is clearly - Infinity has established a really good sports sedan.

Infiniti G37 Sedan
Infiniti G37 Sedan

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Reviewing the 2010 Infiniti EX35

Reviewing the 2010 Infiniti EX35
Reviewing the 2010 Infiniti EX3, Why have car-based "crossover" wagons becoming so popular? That's simple enough. They're roomy like SUVs, usually look rugged like an SUV - and do about as well in the rain and snow as a truck-based SUV does - but without the truck-based SUV's typically clunky handling and hearty thirst for fuel. Almost all of them have one big downside, however.


That downside - if you're an enthusiast driver - is that nearly all current crossover wagons are based on front-wheel-drive layouts, usually with an all-wheel-drive system of some kind available optionally. If you want rear wheel drive (with a RWD-based AWD system) and the superior high-speed handling/balance that comes with it, you're pretty much out of luck. One of the handful of exceptions to this rule is Infiniti's rear-drive-based EX35

WHAT IT IS

The EX35 is a compact, 5-door hatchback sportwagon - aka, a "crossover" - that differs from most crossovers currently on the market in that it's built around a rear-wheel-drive (instead of front-wheel-drive) passenger car drivetrain and chassis. As such, it offers performance/handling characteristics very much like a RWD sport sedan's. Main competition is the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK - both of which are also based on RWD layouts, but which lean more toward the SUV-like side of the aisle than the sport sedan side of the aisle.

WHAT'S NEW for 2010

The EX35 was introduced last year as an all-new model, so changes for 2010 are incremental. All trims now come standard with USB ports for the audio system and the optional GPS system has been updated with Real Time Traffic and Weather assistance.

Also new is a noticeably higher sticker price. The base 2010 model with rear-wheel-drive starts out at $33,800 vs. $31,900 in 2009. The range-topping Journey model with AWD is priced at $37,400 - vs. $36,850 in 2009.

WHAT'S GOOD

Runs - and corners - like the G-series sport sedan it's based on. Brawny (297 hp) V-6 is standard equipment. RWD versions can do burnouts; AWD versions won't get stuck in the snow. Ingot-like solidity outside; beautifully crafted on the inside. Still a deal compared to the $38,850 BMW X3. Stronger than the 268 hp $35,500 Benz GLK.

WHAT'S NOT SO GOOD

The major uptick in price. Where's the six-speed on the floor? Drinks gas like a '76 Eldorado.

UNDER THE HOOD

One of the EX's standout features is its high-powered (and standard equipment) 3.5 liter V-6. It is the same basic engine as used in the current G-series sport sedan, as well as the Nissan 370-Z. It's just slightly smaller in displacement and tuned-down a tad to just under 300 hp. Still, that's power enough to launch the EX from zero to 60 mph in about 6.3-6.5 seconds seconds (RWD versions are quickest), which makes the EX one of the fastest things going in its segment.

The EX's main competition - the 260 hp BMW X3 and the 268 hp Benz GLK - are significantly less powerful, much heavier - and not nearly as quick. The X3, for example, needs about 7.2 seconds to make it to 60 mph. However, you can get a manual transmission in the BMW (a feature not offered with the Infiniti). BMW also has an updated version of the X3 on deck for 2011 that will likely have more power, too.

Still, the EX is near the top of the pile as far as muscularity goes. Several FWD-based competitors like the Acura RDX and VW Tiguan don't even offer V-6 engines and their fours max out around 240 hp - not even in the same ballpark as the EX35's close-to-300-hp V-6.

A five-speed automatic is standard in the EX. It features "sport" programming that can be accessed by pushing a button on the console. This allows driver-control of up and down gear changes. There's also a "Snow" mode that starts the transmission out in second gear (and reduces the aggressiveness of throttle tip-in) to improve grip on slick surfaces.

The EX's optional AWD system differs from the more common (in crossovers) set-up in that, being based on a rear-wheel-drive layout, most of the engine's power goes to the rear wheels, most of the time. As the rear wheels begin to slip, some of the engine's power is automatically routed to the front wheels, to maximize traction. In front-wheel-drive-based systems, most of the engine's output normally goes to the front wheels, until they begin to slip - at which point the system kicks back power to the rear wheels.

What's the difference - and why does it matter? The RWD-based system (with most of the engine's power going to the rear wheels most of the time - and with the weight of the powertrain more evenly spread out from front to rear) gives better handling dynamics on dry, paved roads. A FWD-based system (with most of the engine's power going to the front wheels most of the time - and with most of the powertrain's weight on top of the front wheels) will give better grip on wet/slick roads, along with handling characteristics that are more forgiving of non-expert driver mistakes, such as carryinf too much speed into a decreasing radius turn. The RWD-based vehicle will tend to kick its tail out when this happens, which can be dealt with by applying more throttle and counter-steering. But this is a technique many average drivers haven't mastered. Which is why a FWD-based vehicle - which will typically understeer, or "plow" toward the inside of the turn taken with too much speed - is more controllable and thus safer for the average driver.

But there's a price to be paid - at the pump - for all this high-performance goodness. The EX wants premium fuel only and it wants it often. EPA rates this hawg at an impressively gas-guzzly 17 MPGs in the city and 24 MPGs on the highway. AWD versions knock it down to a suck-a-licious 16 MPGs in city driving and 23 on the highway. In the EX's defense, the X3 and GLK are about as bad, fuel-efficiency-wise. And they're not nearly as powerful - nor as fun to drive (see below). Still, Exxon-Mobil will just love you if you buy this ride.

ON THE ROAD

The EX may be the best handling vehicle of its type on the road. RWD versions behave very much like a RWD sport sedan, which shouldn't be surprising given the EX's heritage. It is basically a wagonized version of Infiniti's excellent G-series sport sedan - and rides and drives very much like it.

Most crossovers are either SUVs in drag - or wanna-be SUVs based on FWD passenger cars. This forces compromises in driving dynamics for the sake of off-road/poor weather bona fides. For example, the BMW X3 - which, being based on a rear-drive layout is closest to the EX in concept - is available only with full-time AWD and is set up to be more of a sporty all-weather SUV than an out and out sport wagon like the EX35. The Benz GLK (based on the C-Class sport sedan) comes in both RWD and AWD versions, but the 30-something horsepower deficit gives the EX an obvious edge over the Benz sportwagon.

Further evidence of the EX's tilt toward the sport side of the balance sheet is its standard/available wheel and tire packages, which include dry road-biased and very high-performance "W" (up to 168 mph) speed rated 18-inch performance tires. The BMW X3's standard tire is only "H" (up to 130 mph) rated.

Other factors that affect handling feel/cornering prowess are ride height and weight. The EX35 sits much lower to the pavement, with only 6.5 inches of clearance vs. the X3's 8 inches (and nearly the same for the GLK, which has 7.9 inches of ground clearance). That is a significant difference you really can feel in a high-speed turn.

The 3,757 lb. EX35 is also much lighter than the downright fatty 4,012 lb. X3 and the nearly two-ton (3,979 lb.) GLK. The lower unsprung mass - and the higher output engine - endow the EX35 with a much more athletic feel.

If only Infiniti offered a manual transmission, this thing would really rock. Even so, the standard five-speed automatic gives the operator much more control over gear changes (when in Sport mode) than most other automatics - which frequently won't let you move down a gear (or up) until the computer decides you're at an acceptable road speed or RPM.

In the EX, you can drop down to (and hold) a lower gear sooner - and for longer - which almost makes up for the absence of a clutch.

AT THE CURB

The EX looks like what it is - a wagonized version of the G-series sedan. It's much more restrained-looking than the wild-child FX (the EX's big brother) which is even more wild-looking for 2010. The EX's look is less dramatic, but it's also less polarizing than the FX.

The interior layout of the EX is also similar to the way the G-series sedan's laid out. It is much less SUV (or even crossover) like and more sport sedan-like, with a curving "double wave" dash that flows into the door panels and recessed LCD display for the GPS in the center stack. It is finished with black lacquer and aluminum trim plates or - optionally - wood veneer inserts.

One area where the EX is lacking relative to competitors like the BMW X3 and Benz GLK is cargo capacity. Behind the rear seats, there's only about 19 cubic feet of space vs. the BMW's 30 cubic feet and the Benz GLK's 23.3 cubic feet. Also, the back seat area is noticeably tighter, too. There's just 28.5 inches of legroom for rear seat passengers vs. 35.8 in the X3 and 35.1 inches in the GLK. Max tow rating is 3,500 lbs. - same as the GLK and X3.

THE REST

Though several Infiniti models are either based on or share major components such as platforms and engines with less prestigious Nissan-branded models, Infiniti does a very effective job of putting distance between them - and not just price-wise.

The base EX, for example, comes with a high level of standard amenities, including automatic climate control, electric sunroof, premium stereo with factory satellite radio hook-up, 17 inch alloy wheels and Infiniti's unique self-healing paint. The finish has high-elastic resins that let it expand to fill in small scratches without ever needing to visit a body shop - or get out the buffing compound. With a starting price point of $33,800 the EX is also considerably less expensive than its most direct competitor, the BMW X3 ($38,850 to start), even factoring in the not-small uptick in MSRP for 2010.

Lots of safety equipment - both built-in crashworthiness and active accident-avoidance features - is a given on a vehicle such as the EX35. But in addition to the things you'd find in ay other similar in price vehicle, such as high-capacity disc brakes with ABS, side-impact and curtain air bags, traction and stability control, the EX35 goes up another notch with an available full perimeter Around View camera system that gives you a 360 degree bird's eye look around the entire vehicle, as if you were floating 10 feet above it. It works when you're moving forward as well as backing up, too - and makes it almost impossible to not notice something that you might otherwise bump into or drive over.

The EX also offers an optional Lane Departure Warning that beeps at you if you wander too near the double yellow line in the road. And this system does more than just beep at you, too. If the driver doesn't make a steering correction to get the vehicle back on track, the system will do that for him - automatically.

THE BOTTOM LINE

The EX may look like a crossover SUV but it's really a sportwagon, with more power than most - and better reflexes than any (in its price range, at least). And that puts it in a class by itself.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

2011 Infiniti QX56


The 2011 QX provides 400hp and 413lb-ft of torque from its direct-injected 5.6l V-8. Customers have the option of rear-wheel drive, or Infiniti’s All-Mode 4WD. The QX is packed full of standard tech, including Infiniti’s hard-drive based navigation, Bose Stereo, USB Connectivity, Intelligent Cruise Control, Frontal Collision Warning, and Intelligent Brake Assist. Rather impressively, Infiniti is offering a majorly improved QX for the same price as last year’s model. The range starts at $56.7K for rear-wheel drive, and $59.8K for four-wheel drive.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Reviewing the 2010 Infiniti G37 convertible


Reviewing the 2010 Infiniti G37 convertible

Glacier Blue metallic was just the right color for the G37 retractable hardtop convertible that got dropped off in my driveway for evaluation one day before we got pummeled by two feet of early December snow. Rear wheel drive, summer tires - and a drop-top roof. It's the equivalent of taking a rubber knife to a gunfight.

But I managed to get one good day's drive in before the G was entombed for the duration.

WHAT IT IS

The G37 is a mid-sized luxury-performance sport sedan/coupe/retractable hardtop coupe. The retractable hardtop convertible was introduced to the lineup in the summer of '09. Prices start at $43,850 for the base rear-drive version with automatic transmission and run to $43,900 for the Sport version with six-speed manual transmission.

WHAT'S NEW

In addition to the new three-piece retractable hardtop, the G37 retractable hardtop has slightly different exterior bodywork (compared with the coupe) and there are some subtle changes to the rear track/suspension. The optional GPS navigation system now has DVD playback capability - and there's an updated gauge cluster, center stack and console.

All-wheel-drive will reportedly be offered later in 2010 (it's already available with the G37 coupe and sedan).

WHAT'S GOOD

Brilliant retractable hardtop; 370Z levels of power/performance/handling (same basic engine/drivetrain and a similar chassis layout) with more space inside (four seats vs. the 370Z's two). Supermodel good looks with the top up or down. Costs a lot less than a BMW 335i soft-top convertible ($50,700). Stronger standard V-6 than the just-launched retractable hardtop Lexus IS350C (306 hp) and has a manual transmission - which you can't get in the automatic-only Lexus.

WHAT'S NOT SO GOOD

Brilliant retractable hardtop adds about $9k to base price vs. G37 hardtop coupe. Also adds nearly 500 pounds of curb weight.

As helpless in the snow as a supermodel in an evening dress and high heels.

ENGINES & PERFORMANCE

The G's standard 3.7 liter V-6 engine is basically the same as the 3.7 liter V-6 used in the Nissan 370Z sports car - with posted horsepower (325) just slightly down from the Z-car's rated output (332 hp).

Another similarity the G shares with its Z-car cousin is the availability of a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission or seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

The big difference, drivetrain-wise, is that the G37 can be ordered with a full-time all-wheel-drive system (the Z-car is rear-drive only).

Adding the retractable hardtop - and the extra chassis bracing needed to maintain the structural rigidity of the body - also added some 460 pounds to the car's curb weight, bulking it up to 4,095 lbs. vs. 3,633 for the G37 coupe. The extra poundage subtracts some performance as well as some fuel economy. The G37 retractable hardtop clears 60 mph in about six seconds flat with rear-wheel-drive and six-speed stick - which is about half a second slower than the coupe. Gas mileage drops slightly from the coupe's 18 city, 26 highway to 17 city, 25 highway.

AWD will likely add about another 200 pounds.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS

If you test drive the hardtop coupe and retractable hardtop convertible back to back - with the roof up, for the convertible - it's hard to tell the difference between the two, despite the retractable hardtop's considerably higher curb weight. The hardtop coupe is quicker, of course - but that quarter to half-second difference is something you need a stopwatch to notice. And when you factor in such things as driver reaction time/ability (for stickshift versions) it's pretty much a wash.

The 3.7 liter V-6 has power to spare - and easily copes with the G's two-ton curb weight. Same with the handling.

On a track - or if you're driving like you would if you were on a track - the retractable hardtop's additional bulk will cause you to lose a step relative to the hardtop coupe. But we are talking fractions of a second's difference, like winning (or losing) the Kentucky Derby by a nose. Both versions have grip thresholds that will satisfy all but the truly maniacal (and high-skilled). Though it's a high-performance two-door, the relatively long wheelbase (112.2 inches) imparts a less darty feel than its short-wheelbase (100.4 inch) Z-car cousin, but with similar steering precision and overall balance. This probably means the average driver will be able to drive the G more aggressively with a higher confidence level than the more expert-oriented Z-car. Take two average drivers, give one a G and the other a Z and it'll be a pretty even race.

But the really impressive thing about the retractable hardtop is how little you notice it is a retractable hardtop - when the top is up. It's just as quiet, just as secure-felling as the coupe. If you have access to a series of railroad ties or "Belgian blocks," you can abuse the car and summon forth some rooftop and A-pillar movement. But again, it's something that's all-but-unnoticeable on the street, in real-world driving.

The car's big functional limitation is the same limitation that applies to all low-slung sporty rear-wheel-drive cars equipped with high-performance tires: It sucks in the snow. And don't think all-wheel-drive will help much. In a car like the G, all-wheel-drive is intended mainly to improve handling on dry and wet roads. Snow is a no-go. The car still sits low, it still has tires that have no business leaving the driveway when the flakes begin to fall. Bum a ride.

STYLING & UTILITY

The retractable hardtop's body is slightly different here and there relative to the coupe - but as with the extra weight, it's something you notice more on paper than in real life. For example, the retractable hardtop is about 1/4 inch longer overall. It's not something you can tell by just looking. Overall, the lines are very similar - and it's easy to mistake the retractable hardtop for the standard coupe - until the top goes down.

That process takes less than 30 seconds - with the works disappearing gracefully into a storage area behind the rear seats. Of course, all that stuff doesn't actually disappear. It ends up folding into the trunk/cargo area - leaving only about 5 cubic feet of capacity vs. 7.4 for the hardtop coupe. But, again, this is a fact of life with any retractable hardtop (and most soft-top convertibles, too).

The main thing I'd worry about is what happens when, down the road (and after the warranty expires) something goes wrong with the hugely complex (and thus, expensive) retractable hardtop mechanism. The rich people who buy a car like this new probably don't worry about it since they're rich - and besides, they don't keep cars longer than five or six years anyhow. The second owner may feel differently... .

As a two-plus-two, the G37 has a set of small but at least conceivably usable rear seats - maybe not for people (a low roofline and minimal legroom ensure that) but for the stuff that you'd otherwise have to leave behind if all you had available was the trunk.

QUALITY & SAFETY

It is becoming more and more difficult to objectively distinguish between what are considered "entry luxury" cars (with opening prices in the mid-high $30k range) and full-on "luxury" cars - as far as the look and feel of the materials, the features in the car and so on. Increasingly, the chief differentiator is price rather than content. The "luxury" cars simply cost more than the "entry luxury" cars. That's ok, I guess, if you're paying more just so you can say you own a more expensive car than Bob next door has. But if you blind-tested a car like the G37 against something that cost another $20k more, it'd be a real challenge to tell which car carried the higher price tag, just by what you get. Stuff like the G's standard self-healing paint (it's flexible enough that minor scratches are gradually absorbed), Bose Open Air sound system with headrest mounted speakers that modulates the sound output to compensate for outside noise, adaptive climate control that adjust fan speed in relation to top position and vehicle speed, Intelligent Cruise Control that maintains your set speed even on downhill grades, radar-based automatic braking, heated and cooled front seats, hard-drive GPS navigation - the proverbial "works."

Some of this stuff you have to buy in a package - which not only bumps up the price but also forces you to buy some items you may not especially want in order to get the things you do. But there's no finding fault with the state-of-the-artness, opulence or put-togetherness of the G.

Convertible-specific safety upgrades include pop-up rollbars (they deploy if sensors detect a possibly imminent rollover) and a wind deflector to mute buffeting at high road speeds. The rest - ABS, traction and stability control, a full complement of air bags - are givens for a car in this class.

THE BOTTOM LINE

A perfect ride for Pacific Coast Highway - but not the hot ticket for the Appalachian mountains in the middle of a bad winter.