<![CDATA[Infiniti Forums - All Forums]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/ Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:49:03 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Hi everyone!]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Hi-everyone Fri, 30 Jul 2010 00:11:04 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Hi-everyone <![CDATA[Nissan Patrol recalled overseas but kissing-cousin Infiniti QX56 not affected <i>[*UPDATED]</i>]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Nissan-Patrol-recalled-overseas-but-kissing-cousin-Infiniti-QX56-not-affected-i-UPDATED-i Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:45:14 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Nissan-Patrol-recalled-overseas-but-kissing-cousin-Infiniti-QX56-not-affected-i-UPDATED-i Filed under: , , , , , ,


2010 Nissan Patrol - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has issued a recall for more than a thousand Nissan Patrol models in the Middle East, citing electrical problems that could affect the engine's fuel supply leading to engine stalls. According to Monal Zeidan, the general manager of marketing and communications for Nissan Middle East, there are problems with an integrated circuit inside the vehicle's electronic control module (ECM). Zeidan goes on to say that if the ECM fails the fuel injectors could stop working and the engine may stop. Owners of the 1,250 affected vehicles in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are being asked to visit their dealerships to have a revised ECM installed.

While the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX56 is heavily based on the Nissan Patrol, our sources at Infiniti say the two models run different ECMs. That's a bit of good news for owners of Infiniti's latest flagship SUV, as it means they won't need to worry about the recall.

*UPDATE: Nissan has issued a clarifying statement that notes while U.S. Infiniti QX56 models are unaffected by this action, Middle Eastern market QX56 are indeed being recalled alongside their Patrol cousins.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Patrol

[Source: TheNational]

Nissan Patrol recalled overseas but kissing-cousin Infiniti QX56 not affected [*UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , , , , ,


2010 Nissan Patrol - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has issued a recall for more than a thousand Nissan Patrol models in the Middle East, citing electrical problems that could affect the engine's fuel supply leading to engine stalls. According to Monal Zeidan, the general manager of marketing and communications for Nissan Middle East, there are problems with an integrated circuit inside the vehicle's electronic control module (ECM). Zeidan goes on to say that if the ECM fails the fuel injectors could stop working and the engine may stop. Owners of the 1,250 affected vehicles in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are being asked to visit their dealerships to have a revised ECM installed.

While the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX56 is heavily based on the Nissan Patrol, our sources at Infiniti say the two models run different ECMs. That's a bit of good news for owners of Infiniti's latest flagship SUV, as it means they won't need to worry about the recall.

*UPDATE: Nissan has issued a clarifying statement that notes while U.S. Infiniti QX56 models are unaffected by this action, Middle Eastern market QX56 are indeed being recalled alongside their Patrol cousins.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Patrol

[Source: TheNational]

Nissan Patrol recalled overseas but kissing-cousin Infiniti QX56 not affected [*UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> <![CDATA[Nissan Patrol recalled overseas but kissing-cousin Infiniti QX56 not affected]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Nissan-Patrol-recalled-overseas-but-kissing-cousin-Infiniti-QX56-not-affected Tue, 27 Jul 2010 15:41:01 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Nissan-Patrol-recalled-overseas-but-kissing-cousin-Infiniti-QX56-not-affected Filed under: , , , , , ,


2010 Nissan Patrol - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has issued a recall for more than a thousand Nissan Patrol models in the Middle East, citing electrical problems that could affect the engine's fuel supply leading to engine stalls. According to Monal Zeidan, the general manager of marketing and communications for Nissan Middle East, there are problems with an integrated circuit inside the vehicle's electronic control module (ECM). Zeidan goes on to say that if the ECM fails the fuel injectors could stop working and the engine may stop. Owners of the 1,250 affected vehicles in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are being asked to visit their dealerships to have a revised ECM installed.

While the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX56 is heavily based on the Nissan Patrol, our sources at Infiniti say the two models run different ECMs. That's a bit of good news for owners of Infiniti's latest flagship SUV, as it means they won't need to worry about the recall.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Patrol

[Source: TheNational]

Nissan Patrol recalled overseas but kissing-cousin Infiniti QX56 not affected originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , , , , ,


2010 Nissan Patrol - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has issued a recall for more than a thousand Nissan Patrol models in the Middle East, citing electrical problems that could affect the engine's fuel supply leading to engine stalls. According to Monal Zeidan, the general manager of marketing and communications for Nissan Middle East, there are problems with an integrated circuit inside the vehicle's electronic control module (ECM). Zeidan goes on to say that if the ECM fails the fuel injectors could stop working and the engine may stop. Owners of the 1,250 affected vehicles in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are being asked to visit their dealerships to have a revised ECM installed.

While the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX56 is heavily based on the Nissan Patrol, our sources at Infiniti say the two models run different ECMs. That's a bit of good news for owners of Infiniti's latest flagship SUV, as it means they won't need to worry about the recall.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Patrol

[Source: TheNational]

Nissan Patrol recalled overseas but kissing-cousin Infiniti QX56 not affected originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> <![CDATA[2010 Infiniti FX35 / FX50 Owner's Manual]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-2010-Infiniti-FX35-FX50-Owner-s-Manual Fri, 23 Jul 2010 14:19:55 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-2010-Infiniti-FX35-FX50-Owner-s-Manual
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http://www.megaupload.com/?d=LEDMFPGB
]]> <![CDATA[Hello!]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Hello--217 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 06:46:58 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Hello--217 <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #184 - IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi horsepower]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Autoblog-Podcast-184-IPOs-Manly-Minivans-City-Cars-and-Hemi-horsepower Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Autoblog-Podcast-184-IPOs-Manly-Minivans-City-Cars-and-Hemi-horsepower Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


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

Chris Shunk rejoins Sam, Alex and Dan for Episode #184 of the Autoblog Podcast. Topics we mull are Tesla's actual IPO and General Motors' apparently impending public offering. Gordon Murray's T.25 city car makes the cut before we do a 180 and talk about the possibility of a 480-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT8 and a manlier minivan. It ends with your feedback, a tidy hour and ten minutes. See you next week!

Autoblog Podcast #184 - IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi Horsepower



In the Autoblog Garage:

Infiniti G37x Coupe
Honda CR-Z
Nissan Altima V6

News:

 Hosts:
Dan Roth, Sam Abuelsamid, Alex Nunez, Chris Shunk

Runtime: 71:22

 Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Joystiq Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Autoblog Podcast #184 - IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


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

Chris Shunk rejoins Sam, Alex and Dan for Episode #184 of the Autoblog Podcast. Topics we mull are Tesla's actual IPO and General Motors' apparently impending public offering. Gordon Murray's T.25 city car makes the cut before we do a 180 and talk about the possibility of a 480-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT8 and a manlier minivan. It ends with your feedback, a tidy hour and ten minutes. See you next week!

Autoblog Podcast #184 - IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi Horsepower



In the Autoblog Garage:

Infiniti G37x Coupe
Honda CR-Z
Nissan Altima V6

News:

 Hosts:
Dan Roth, Sam Abuelsamid, Alex Nunez, Chris Shunk

Runtime: 71:22

 Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Joystiq Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Autoblog Podcast #184 - IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) is coming this year]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-Performance-Line-IPL-is-coming-this-year Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-Performance-Line-IPL-is-coming-this-year Filed under: , , , , ,


Infiniti Performance Line teaser - Click above for high-res image

Hot on the heels of the recent revelation that Infiniti is working on a duo of new G-based vehicles slated to debut at this year's Pebble Beach extravaganza, we've come across a trademark filing by Nissan North America for "IPL." What's IPL you ask? Infiniti Performance Line, a new catalog of in-house developed upgrades which - according to the filing - will include everything from air filters to cat-back exhaust systems, and - more intriguingly - "automotive engine parts, namely turbochargers and superchargers."

The approach is likely to be similar to how NISMO develops and markets parts for Nissan or, more accurately, Lexus' launch of its F-Sport performance line.

This new line of performance parts will likely be unveiled this August in Pebble Beach and be fitted to the G37 coupe. How extensive the modifications are remains to be seen, but as previously reported, one of the models set to debut will be "performance oriented," and if forced induction is part of the package, we're anxiously awaiting our rendezvous with the modded coupe this summer.

Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) is coming this year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , , , ,


Infiniti Performance Line teaser - Click above for high-res image

Hot on the heels of the recent revelation that Infiniti is working on a duo of new G-based vehicles slated to debut at this year's Pebble Beach extravaganza, we've come across a trademark filing by Nissan North America for "IPL." What's IPL you ask? Infiniti Performance Line, a new catalog of in-house developed upgrades which - according to the filing - will include everything from air filters to cat-back exhaust systems, and - more intriguingly - "automotive engine parts, namely turbochargers and superchargers."

The approach is likely to be similar to how NISMO develops and markets parts for Nissan or, more accurately, Lexus' launch of its F-Sport performance line.

This new line of performance parts will likely be unveiled this August in Pebble Beach and be fitted to the G37 coupe. How extensive the modifications are remains to be seen, but as previously reported, one of the models set to debut will be "performance oriented," and if forced induction is part of the package, we're anxiously awaiting our rendezvous with the modded coupe this summer.

Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) is coming this year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> <![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Infiniti QX56 overcomes the odds]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-First-Drive-2011-Infiniti-QX56-overcomes-the-odds Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-First-Drive-2011-Infiniti-QX56-overcomes-the-odds Filed under: , , ,


2011 Infiniti QX56 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ask any braniac elementary school student what happened to the dinosaurs, and they'll tell you they turned into birds. While the mechanics are a bit more complicated than a momma T-Rex hatching a brood of yellow finches, modern science would seem to agree with the concept. When we were in school, the common perception was that those massive lizards parted ways with terra firma courtesy of a jumbo-sized meteor smack. Our Earth Science books called it a mass extinction, and they accompanied the definition with helpful illustrations that depicted contemplative Brontosaurus and Triceratops herds looking off into the distance as a chunk of orange sky plummeted toward the horizon.

So you can't really blame us for thinking that the SUV would follow a similar natural path. When fuel prices shot up, many rejoiced at the thought of global body-on-frame extinction. This was the event some had been patiently waiting for since the high-riding people movers first supplanted the minivan as the family cruiser of choice. And while we've certainly seen weaker species succumb to the heat of pressure from more efficient breeds, the strong continue to soldier on, slowly adapting to a world grown hostile to anything big and thirsty. If you believe Infiniti, that's exactly what the 2011 QX56 has done - evolved.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Infiniti QX56

Photos by Zach Bowman / Copyright ©2009 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Infiniti QX56 overcomes the odds

First Drive: 2011 Infiniti QX56 overcomes the odds originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 May 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , ,


2011 Infiniti QX56 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ask any braniac elementary school student what happened to the dinosaurs, and they'll tell you they turned into birds. While the mechanics are a bit more complicated than a momma T-Rex hatching a brood of yellow finches, modern science would seem to agree with the concept. When we were in school, the common perception was that those massive lizards parted ways with terra firma courtesy of a jumbo-sized meteor smack. Our Earth Science books called it a mass extinction, and they accompanied the definition with helpful illustrations that depicted contemplative Brontosaurus and Triceratops herds looking off into the distance as a chunk of orange sky plummeted toward the horizon.

So you can't really blame us for thinking that the SUV would follow a similar natural path. When fuel prices shot up, many rejoiced at the thought of global body-on-frame extinction. This was the event some had been patiently waiting for since the high-riding people movers first supplanted the minivan as the family cruiser of choice. And while we've certainly seen weaker species succumb to the heat of pressure from more efficient breeds, the strong continue to soldier on, slowly adapting to a world grown hostile to anything big and thirsty. If you believe Infiniti, that's exactly what the 2011 QX56 has done - evolved.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Infiniti QX56

Photos by Zach Bowman / Copyright ©2009 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Infiniti QX56 overcomes the odds

First Drive: 2011 Infiniti QX56 overcomes the odds originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 May 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> <![CDATA[AP: Nissan to recall 48k trucks, SUVs over potential suspension issue]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-AP-Nissan-to-recall-48k-trucks-SUVs-over-potential-suspension-issue Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-AP-Nissan-to-recall-48k-trucks-SUVs-over-potential-suspension-issue Filed under: , , , , ,



The Associated Press is reporting that Nissan will recall 48,700 trucks and SUVs for a suspension problem that could lead to an unforgiving ride. The recall, which could officially begin as early as this week, involves the 2010 Nissan Titan, Pathfinder, Armada and Xterra, along with the Infiniti QX56. The recall is related to a suspension control link that may not have been welded properly. If the weld is insufficient, the bushing collar could crack, leading to the kind of ride that bruises kidneys and rattles fillings.

Nissan spokesman Colin Price reported to the AP that the company is working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to get the recall processed as quickly as possible. Once a recall is officially announced, Nissan will provide a fix at no cost to the customer. No accidents have been reported as a result of this potential issue.

[Source: The Associated Press]

AP: Nissan to recall 48k trucks, SUVs over potential suspension issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 May 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , , , ,



The Associated Press is reporting that Nissan will recall 48,700 trucks and SUVs for a suspension problem that could lead to an unforgiving ride. The recall, which could officially begin as early as this week, involves the 2010 Nissan Titan, Pathfinder, Armada and Xterra, along with the Infiniti QX56. The recall is related to a suspension control link that may not have been welded properly. If the weld is insufficient, the bushing collar could crack, leading to the kind of ride that bruises kidneys and rattles fillings.

Nissan spokesman Colin Price reported to the AP that the company is working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to get the recall processed as quickly as possible. Once a recall is officially announced, Nissan will provide a fix at no cost to the customer. No accidents have been reported as a result of this potential issue.

[Source: The Associated Press]

AP: Nissan to recall 48k trucks, SUVs over potential suspension issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 May 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[Infiniti bringing two new <strike>M-based</strike> G-based models to Pebble Beach]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-bringing-two-new-strike-M-based-strike-G-based-models-to-Pebble-Beach Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-bringing-two-new-strike-M-based-strike-G-based-models-to-Pebble-Beach Filed under: , , ,


Infiniti G Coupe Sketches - Click above for high-res image

For the past two years, Infiniti has been growing its presence in Pebble Beach. The week-long auto extravaganza in August plays host to a number of automaker events, but recently, Infiniti has been taking center stage. For 2010, Nissan's premium channel isn't letting up, bringing two M-based models to the party in Pebble, both of which are slated for production.

We don't have specifics on either model, but in addition to the image above, our sources within Infiniti tell us that the new coupe variants will be extensions of its current lineup, lending credence to recent rumors of an M coupe likely to be based off Infiniti's current line of G vehicles.

More interestingly, we've been told that both models will "extend Infiniti into an area we haven't been before" and that one of those models will be more "performance oriented." If that means we can expect some kind of powertrain similar to the Essence Concept that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show last year - a twin-turbo, direct injected V6 putting out over 450 horsepower - consider our interest incredibly piqued.

Both models are set to go on sale in October or November of this year, with the M35 Hybrid arriving sometime toward the end of 2011.

Infiniti bringing two new M-based G-based models to Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 May 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , ,


Infiniti G Coupe Sketches - Click above for high-res image

For the past two years, Infiniti has been growing its presence in Pebble Beach. The week-long auto extravaganza in August plays host to a number of automaker events, but recently, Infiniti has been taking center stage. For 2010, Nissan's premium channel isn't letting up, bringing two M-based models to the party in Pebble, both of which are slated for production.

We don't have specifics on either model, but in addition to the image above, our sources within Infiniti tell us that the new coupe variants will be extensions of its current lineup, lending credence to recent rumors of an M coupe likely to be based off Infiniti's current line of G vehicles.

More interestingly, we've been told that both models will "extend Infiniti into an area we haven't been before" and that one of those models will be more "performance oriented." If that means we can expect some kind of powertrain similar to the Essence Concept that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show last year - a twin-turbo, direct injected V6 putting out over 450 horsepower - consider our interest incredibly piqued.

Both models are set to go on sale in October or November of this year, with the M35 Hybrid arriving sometime toward the end of 2011.

Infiniti bringing two new M-based G-based models to Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 May 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Nissan mulling Infiniti M Coupe?]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Rendered-Speculation-Nissan-mulling-Infiniti-M-Coupe Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Rendered-Speculation-Nissan-mulling-Infiniti-M-Coupe Filed under: , , ,

These kind of conversations go on all the time. An automaker will consider variations on the theme of a particular model, and the rabid media will occasionally pick up a snippet of that chatter and blow it way out of proportion. We can't say whether rumors of a two-door M coupe are reality or just spitballing, though many would argue that such a model is a necessity for success.

A two-door M could be offered in both V6 M37 form, and with a V8 as the M56. InsideLine has a rendering that shows a pretty spiffy premium coupe with a unique roof pillar treatment. It's a nice rendering, but we can posit that the production version won't be wearing a piece of C-pillar finery to make a '61 Valiant jealous.

[Source: InsideLine]

Rendered Speculation: Nissan mulling Infiniti M Coupe? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , ,

These kind of conversations go on all the time. An automaker will consider variations on the theme of a particular model, and the rabid media will occasionally pick up a snippet of that chatter and blow it way out of proportion. We can't say whether rumors of a two-door M coupe are reality or just spitballing, though many would argue that such a model is a necessity for success.

A two-door M could be offered in both V6 M37 form, and with a V8 as the M56. InsideLine has a rendering that shows a pretty spiffy premium coupe with a unique roof pillar treatment. It's a nice rendering, but we can posit that the production version won't be wearing a piece of C-pillar finery to make a '61 Valiant jealous.

[Source: InsideLine]

Rendered Speculation: Nissan mulling Infiniti M Coupe? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[Infiniti teams up with Bell & Ross on limited edition wristwatch for the jet set]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-teams-up-with-Bell-Ross-on-limited-edition-wristwatch-for-the-jet-set Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-teams-up-with-Bell-Ross-on-limited-edition-wristwatch-for-the-jet-set Filed under: , , , ,


Infiniti FX Limited Edition and the Bell & Ross BR03-92 Instrument Phantom Infiniti - Click above for high-res image gallery

Think of automotive brands associated with aviation, and what comes to mind? Saab and Spyker first and foremost (which may or may not be coincidental since the two are now under common ownership). Maybe BMW, Mitsubishi, and Fuji Heavy Industries (makers of Subaru vehicles)... but Infiniti would be a bit of a stretch. In the watchmaking sphere, Bell & Ross are synonymous with aviation, known as they are for producing timepieces designed after airplane instruments. Now the two brands have teamed up for a very limited edition wristwatch.

Complimenting the FX Limited Edition recently released (and almost already sold out) in Europe, only 100 examples of the BR03-92 Instrument Phantom Infiniti wristwatch will be produced, available only through Infiniti Centres in Europe. The timepiece features a 42-millimeter case coated in black carbon powder, black dial and purple accents, supposedly in compliment of Infiniti's brand color. (News to us.) Each example will be individually numbered and fetches a princely sum of]]> Filed under: , , , ,


Infiniti FX Limited Edition and the Bell & Ross BR03-92 Instrument Phantom Infiniti - Click above for high-res image gallery

Think of automotive brands associated with aviation, and what comes to mind? Saab and Spyker first and foremost (which may or may not be coincidental since the two are now under common ownership). Maybe BMW, Mitsubishi, and Fuji Heavy Industries (makers of Subaru vehicles)... but Infiniti would be a bit of a stretch. In the watchmaking sphere, Bell & Ross are synonymous with aviation, known as they are for producing timepieces designed after airplane instruments. Now the two brands have teamed up for a very limited edition wristwatch.

Complimenting the FX Limited Edition recently released (and almost already sold out) in Europe, only 100 examples of the BR03-92 Instrument Phantom Infiniti wristwatch will be produced, available only through Infiniti Centres in Europe. The timepiece features a 42-millimeter case coated in black carbon powder, black dial and purple accents, supposedly in compliment of Infiniti's brand color. (News to us.) Each example will be individually numbered and fetches a princely sum of]]> <![CDATA[Infiniti recalls 134,000 G35 coupes and sedans due to airbag issue]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-recalls-134-000-G35-coupes-and-sedans-due-to-airbag-issue Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Infiniti-recalls-134-000-G35-coupes-and-sedans-due-to-airbag-issue Filed under: , , , , ,



Being involved in a car accident is scary stuff. Being involved in a car accident and not having your airbags deploy is even scarier. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, just over 134,000 Infiniti G35 coupes and sedans sold in the mid-2000s are affected by a problem in which wire harnesses for the airbags may wear down to the point of not functioning properly, meaning that the airbags may not deploy in a crash.

Infiniti is recalling 2005-06 model year G35 sedans and 2005-07 model year G35 coupes sold around the world due to this problem. The automaker has not yet notified the Feds of how the faulty wire harnesses will be fixed, but the official recall is now being announced, just two weeks after the potential problem was reported to NHTSA. So far, no crashes or injuries have been reported due to this issue, and Infiniti's parent company, Nissan, is hard at work developing a solution for this potentially dangerous situation.

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

Infiniti recalls 134,000 G35 coupes and sedans due to airbag issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , , , ,



Being involved in a car accident is scary stuff. Being involved in a car accident and not having your airbags deploy is even scarier. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, just over 134,000 Infiniti G35 coupes and sedans sold in the mid-2000s are affected by a problem in which wire harnesses for the airbags may wear down to the point of not functioning properly, meaning that the airbags may not deploy in a crash.

Infiniti is recalling 2005-06 model year G35 sedans and 2005-07 model year G35 coupes sold around the world due to this problem. The automaker has not yet notified the Feds of how the faulty wire harnesses will be fixed, but the official recall is now being announced, just two weeks after the potential problem was reported to NHTSA. So far, no crashes or injuries have been reported due to this issue, and Infiniti's parent company, Nissan, is hard at work developing a solution for this potentially dangerous situation.

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

Infiniti recalls 134,000 G35 coupes and sedans due to airbag issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[Rumormill: Infiniti to offer entry-level CUV based on Benz A/B Class]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Rumormill-Infiniti-to-offer-entry-level-CUV-based-on-Benz-A-B-Class Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Rumormill-Infiniti-to-offer-entry-level-CUV-based-on-Benz-A-B-Class Filed under: , , , , , ,

If you believe the rumors dusting up from L'Automobile Magazine, Nissan may be borrowing more than a small engine from Daimler. The French site is reporting that the two companies could be looking into sharing an entire platform in order to create a new Infiniti-badged CUV. If our Google translator is to be believed, the French site claims that Infiniti will be getting its paws on the next Mercedes-Benz A/B Class in order to build a new DX model destined to slot below the current EX.

The move would put Infiniti into the CUV fray with fighters like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 if it came to fruition. Right now, that's a big if. As far as we know, Infiniti hasn't said word one about building a smaller crossover, even if it would help the brand gain traction in the notoriously truck-averse European market, and it already sells the EX, itself a rather smallish entrant (that looks suspiciously like the rendering excerpted at right). L'Automobile Magazine says the move is currently under consideration by both Renault-Nissan and Daimler, but we wouldn't exactly hold our breath for a new pint-sized Infiniti.

[Source: L'Automobile Magazine]

Rumormill: Infiniti to offer entry-level CUV based on Benz A/B Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , , , , ,

If you believe the rumors dusting up from L'Automobile Magazine, Nissan may be borrowing more than a small engine from Daimler. The French site is reporting that the two companies could be looking into sharing an entire platform in order to create a new Infiniti-badged CUV. If our Google translator is to be believed, the French site claims that Infiniti will be getting its paws on the next Mercedes-Benz A/B Class in order to build a new DX model destined to slot below the current EX.

The move would put Infiniti into the CUV fray with fighters like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 if it came to fruition. Right now, that's a big if. As far as we know, Infiniti hasn't said word one about building a smaller crossover, even if it would help the brand gain traction in the notoriously truck-averse European market, and it already sells the EX, itself a rather smallish entrant (that looks suspiciously like the rendering excerpted at right). L'Automobile Magazine says the move is currently under consideration by both Renault-Nissan and Daimler, but we wouldn't exactly hold our breath for a new pint-sized Infiniti.

[Source: L'Automobile Magazine]

Rumormill: Infiniti to offer entry-level CUV based on Benz A/B Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> <![CDATA[Ward's releases 2010 Auto Interior Award winners]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Ward-s-releases-2010-Auto-Interior-Award-winners Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Ward-s-releases-2010-Auto-Interior-Award-winners Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Camaro interior - Click above for high-res image gallery of interior award winners from Ward's Auto

Do you own a Lamborghini Miura? If not, we're going to presume that you spend way more time looking at the interior of your car than the exterior. If you do happen to have a Miura parked in your garage, we suggest you stop reading immediately and go gaze upon its sensuous exterior lines for a few hours.

Still here? Great, that means you don't own a Miura and the interior of your car is an extremely important consideration. Which begs the question: What car has the best interior in any given class? Attempting to answer that query is none other than Wards Auto, which has just released its annual Auto Interior of the Year Awards for 2010 after analyzing the innards of 40 vehicles that are either brand new for 2010 or at least significantly updated.

Somewhat surprisingly, the only automaker to take home more than one trophy was Chevrolet. The new Equinox won for popular-priced truck under $39,999 and the Camaro took top honors in the sportscar category. Other winners include the Subaru Outback in the popular-priced car under $29,999 category and the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo for "Design Versatility."

Want to see the rest? Check out our high-res image gallery below for a visual listing of all the winners and click past the break for the official press release.


Gallery: 2010 Ward's Interior of the Year Winners

[Source: Wards Auto]

Continue reading Ward's releases 2010 Auto Interior Award winners

Ward's releases 2010 Auto Interior Award winners originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Camaro interior - Click above for high-res image gallery of interior award winners from Ward's Auto

Do you own a Lamborghini Miura? If not, we're going to presume that you spend way more time looking at the interior of your car than the exterior. If you do happen to have a Miura parked in your garage, we suggest you stop reading immediately and go gaze upon its sensuous exterior lines for a few hours.

Still here? Great, that means you don't own a Miura and the interior of your car is an extremely important consideration. Which begs the question: What car has the best interior in any given class? Attempting to answer that query is none other than Wards Auto, which has just released its annual Auto Interior of the Year Awards for 2010 after analyzing the innards of 40 vehicles that are either brand new for 2010 or at least significantly updated.

Somewhat surprisingly, the only automaker to take home more than one trophy was Chevrolet. The new Equinox won for popular-priced truck under $39,999 and the Camaro took top honors in the sportscar category. Other winners include the Subaru Outback in the popular-priced car under $29,999 category and the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo for "Design Versatility."

Want to see the rest? Check out our high-res image gallery below for a visual listing of all the winners and click past the break for the official press release.


Gallery: 2010 Ward's Interior of the Year Winners

[Source: Wards Auto]

Continue reading Ward's releases 2010 Auto Interior Award winners

Ward's releases 2010 Auto Interior Award winners originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[Report: First Infiniti Leaf rejected due to staid styling, lack of luxury]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Report-First-Infiniti-Leaf-rejected-due-to-staid-styling-lack-of-luxury Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Report-First-Infiniti-Leaf-rejected-due-to-staid-styling-lack-of-luxury Filed under: , , , , ,



Highlighting the classic conundrum of creating a bespoke luxury car from more plebeian underpinnings is a report from Automotive News that Infiniti was forced to reject the initial designs for its version of the Nissan Leaf electric car. Apparently, those first attempts, which came in from Nissan's San Diego styling studio, were too similar to the standard Leaf.

According to Ben Poore, vice president of the North American Infiniti Business Unit, though, those problems are now long gone. "I was in Japan last week and saw the final three or four designs for the car," assures Poore. "And I can tell you without a doubt that we're going to have a uniquely Infiniti product."

So, what kind of "uniquely Infiniti" changes can we expect from the upmarket electric vehicle? Surely there will be styling updates to bring the funky little hatchback more in line with the rest of the Infiniti lineup, and we'd also expect an interior that's suitably upgraded with more luxurious appointments. Also, Poore suggests that the car must have adequate acceleration and performance in order to satisfy Infiniti's more demanding clientele.

Predictably, these improvements will bring with them an increase in the Leaf's after-federal-incentive price of around $25,000. How much more, though, remains to be seen, as does the actual release date of the Infiniti-fettled Nissan Leaf.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Report: First Infiniti Leaf rejected due to staid styling, lack of luxury originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , , , ,



Highlighting the classic conundrum of creating a bespoke luxury car from more plebeian underpinnings is a report from Automotive News that Infiniti was forced to reject the initial designs for its version of the Nissan Leaf electric car. Apparently, those first attempts, which came in from Nissan's San Diego styling studio, were too similar to the standard Leaf.

According to Ben Poore, vice president of the North American Infiniti Business Unit, though, those problems are now long gone. "I was in Japan last week and saw the final three or four designs for the car," assures Poore. "And I can tell you without a doubt that we're going to have a uniquely Infiniti product."

So, what kind of "uniquely Infiniti" changes can we expect from the upmarket electric vehicle? Surely there will be styling updates to bring the funky little hatchback more in line with the rest of the Infiniti lineup, and we'd also expect an interior that's suitably upgraded with more luxurious appointments. Also, Poore suggests that the car must have adequate acceleration and performance in order to satisfy Infiniti's more demanding clientele.

Predictably, these improvements will bring with them an increase in the Leaf's after-federal-incentive price of around $25,000. How much more, though, remains to be seen, as does the actual release date of the Infiniti-fettled Nissan Leaf.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Report: First Infiniti Leaf rejected due to staid styling, lack of luxury originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[Lexus, Infiniti reportedly not interested in taking on BMW's 5 Series Gran Turismo]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Lexus-Infiniti-reportedly-not-interested-in-taking-on-BMW-s-5-Series-Gran-Turismo Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Lexus-Infiniti-reportedly-not-interested-in-taking-on-BMW-s-5-Series-Gran-Turismo Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

Depending on who you ask, BMW is either at the forefront of an exciting new automotive genre with the 5 Series Gran Turismo, or is inventing market segments with no real purpose other than to grab several thousand new sales from those who simply must be seen in the latest trendy niche. In other words, the 5 Series GT is nothing if not polarizing.

For now, it seems that you can put such luxury brands Lexus and Infiniti in the latter camp, though fellow upmarket Japanese automaker Acura is headed down a similar path as its German counterpart with the new ZDX - at least with regard to the X6. Speaking to Auto Observer at the New York Auto Show, Ben Poore, Nissan North America's vice president of the Infiniti business unit, said, "What [we are] seeing is a much stronger preference (among consumers) for a trunk."

Granted, some may see little difference between such vehicles as the 5 Series GT and Infiniti's own EX and FX crossovers, but Poore suggests the machines aren't direct competitors. "I'd rather be on (either) the crossover styling or the trunk styling," he said. Dave Nordstrom, Lexus' vice president of marketing, concurs, saying, "We don't have any plans for it right now. We have not seen the demand from our customers - but we continue to look at it."

As for us? Well, you can read all about our initial impressions of the 5 Series GT by looking back at our First Drive. Suffice it to say, our own office is split on the effectiveness of this new giant hatchback trend just like everyone else.


Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: Auto Observer]

Lexus, Infiniti reportedly not interested in taking on BMW's 5 Series Gran Turismo originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

Depending on who you ask, BMW is either at the forefront of an exciting new automotive genre with the 5 Series Gran Turismo, or is inventing market segments with no real purpose other than to grab several thousand new sales from those who simply must be seen in the latest trendy niche. In other words, the 5 Series GT is nothing if not polarizing.

For now, it seems that you can put such luxury brands Lexus and Infiniti in the latter camp, though fellow upmarket Japanese automaker Acura is headed down a similar path as its German counterpart with the new ZDX - at least with regard to the X6. Speaking to Auto Observer at the New York Auto Show, Ben Poore, Nissan North America's vice president of the Infiniti business unit, said, "What [we are] seeing is a much stronger preference (among consumers) for a trunk."

Granted, some may see little difference between such vehicles as the 5 Series GT and Infiniti's own EX and FX crossovers, but Poore suggests the machines aren't direct competitors. "I'd rather be on (either) the crossover styling or the trunk styling," he said. Dave Nordstrom, Lexus' vice president of marketing, concurs, saying, "We don't have any plans for it right now. We have not seen the demand from our customers - but we continue to look at it."

As for us? Well, you can read all about our initial impressions of the 5 Series GT by looking back at our First Drive. Suffice it to say, our own office is split on the effectiveness of this new giant hatchback trend just like everyone else.


Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: Auto Observer]

Lexus, Infiniti reportedly not interested in taking on BMW's 5 Series Gran Turismo originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[Report: Infiniti G to get four-cylinder Mercedes engine]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Report-Infiniti-G-to-get-four-cylinder-Mercedes-engine Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Report-Infiniti-G-to-get-four-cylinder-Mercedes-engine Filed under: , , , , ,


2009 Infiniti G37x S Sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've all been wondering exactly what flavor of fruit the Daimler AG/Renault-Nissan mash-up would bear, and now it looks like we may have our first answer. Starting soon, the Infiniti G will boast an efficient four-cylinder engine borrowed straight from Mercedes-Benz. AutoWeek reports that Nissan head-honcho Carlos Ghosn confirmed the news himself, though so far we have no indication of exactly which four-pot will make its way into the Japanese sedan or when it will be available to buyers.

The suits at both Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz don't seem to be too concerned about the new four-cylinder G robbing sales from the Silver Arrow. Ghosn said that customers typically don't cross-shop the two brands at all. Instead, Infiniti will benefit from having a new efficient option for buyers that will help the company meet impending fuel standards, and Mercedes-Benz will move more powerplants than before. Win, win.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Infiniti G37x S Sedan

[Source: Auto Week]

Report: Infiniti G to get four-cylinder Mercedes engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , , , ,


2009 Infiniti G37x S Sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've all been wondering exactly what flavor of fruit the Daimler AG/Renault-Nissan mash-up would bear, and now it looks like we may have our first answer. Starting soon, the Infiniti G will boast an efficient four-cylinder engine borrowed straight from Mercedes-Benz. AutoWeek reports that Nissan head-honcho Carlos Ghosn confirmed the news himself, though so far we have no indication of exactly which four-pot will make its way into the Japanese sedan or when it will be available to buyers.

The suits at both Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz don't seem to be too concerned about the new four-cylinder G robbing sales from the Silver Arrow. Ghosn said that customers typically don't cross-shop the two brands at all. Instead, Infiniti will benefit from having a new efficient option for buyers that will help the company meet impending fuel standards, and Mercedes-Benz will move more powerplants than before. Win, win.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Infiniti G37x S Sedan

[Source: Auto Week]

Report: Infiniti G to get four-cylinder Mercedes engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #173 - with Jon Linkov from <i>Consumer Reports</i>]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Autoblog-Podcast-173-with-Jon-Linkov-from-i-Consumer-Reports-i Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-Autoblog-Podcast-173-with-Jon-Linkov-from-i-Consumer-Reports-i Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


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

Jon Linkov from Consumer Reports joins Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert and Dan Roth to talk about the New York Auto Show, offer insight into how CR rates autos, touch on the possible 16.4 million dollar fine for Toyota and consider the Renault/Nissan deal with Daimler that may happen this week. It's an hour and a half before we run out of steam. Enjoy!

Autoblog Podcast #173: with Jon Linkov from Consumer Reports



In the Autoblog Garage:

Nissan Cube
Subaru Legacy 2.5GT (long-term intro)
Volkswagen GTI
Infiniti G37
Jeep Patriot
Mercedes CL550 4Matic

News:
New York Auto Show
$16.4 million fine possible for Toyota
Renault/Nissan and Daimler lash-up

Hosts:
Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert, Dan Roth

Guest:
Jon Linkov of Consumer Reports

Runtime: 1:28:45

 Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Joystiq Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Autoblog Podcast #173 - with Jon Linkov from Consumer Reports originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


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

Jon Linkov from Consumer Reports joins Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert and Dan Roth to talk about the New York Auto Show, offer insight into how CR rates autos, touch on the possible 16.4 million dollar fine for Toyota and consider the Renault/Nissan deal with Daimler that may happen this week. It's an hour and a half before we run out of steam. Enjoy!

Autoblog Podcast #173: with Jon Linkov from Consumer Reports



In the Autoblog Garage:

Nissan Cube
Subaru Legacy 2.5GT (long-term intro)
Volkswagen GTI
Infiniti G37
Jeep Patriot
Mercedes CL550 4Matic

News:
New York Auto Show
$16.4 million fine possible for Toyota
Renault/Nissan and Daimler lash-up

Hosts:
Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert, Dan Roth

Guest:
Jon Linkov of Consumer Reports

Runtime: 1:28:45

 Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Joystiq Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Autoblog Podcast #173 - with Jon Linkov from Consumer Reports originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read]]> <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Infiniti QX56 priced identical to 2010 model at $56,700]]> http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-New-York-2010-2011-Infiniti-QX56-priced-identical-to-2010-model-at-56-700 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:13:27 -0700 http://www.infinitiforums.org/Thread-New-York-2010-2011-Infiniti-QX56-priced-identical-to-2010-model-at-56-700 Filed under: , , , ,


2011 Infiniti QX56 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a quite entertaining piece of both gravity and physiology-defying strangeness from some smiley Cirque de Soleil performers (Infiniti is the official sponsor of Cirque de Soleil), Infiniti's product boss Carlos Tavares took the wraps off the all-new QX56. Based not on the Nissan Armada chassis (like the previous QX56) but instead on the heavy-duty Patrol, the new QX56 is a large, eight passenger "5-Star Luxury" body on frame SUV. That said, Infiniti managed to shed over 100 pound of flab compared to the 2010 QX56.

Speaking of the 2010 iteration, the previous QX56 is roundly regarded as one of the most awkward and ungainly looking luxo-barges, well, ever. In fact, if we were to put together a museum exhibit about the uncontrolled and obnoxious wild excesses of the just-ended SUV craze, the old QX would get top billing right next to a Hummer H2 and the Cadillac Escalade EXT. The new QX56 changes all that. It's world's better looking. We'd even go so far as to state that it has a certain Middle Eastern chic to it. Put it like this: if you had to cruise around your kingdom checking oil wells what would you rather be driving?

Infiniti is billing the QX56 as an eight-passenger private jet. Mr. Tavares must have said the word "luxury" a dozen times in his ten-minute presentation. Judging by our time with the all-new 2011 M37 and M56, we can declare then when they want to, Infiniti is fully capable of building a world-class interior. In the 2011 QX56, even the third-row reclines. Oh, they've also seen fit to stuff seven-inch color displays into the backs of the front head rests.

Hardware-wise, the QX56 is a body-on-frame full-size SUV sporting the same 5.6-liter variable-timing, direct-injection V8 as the M56, although in QX-trim it "only" makes 400 horsepower. However, while Infiniti had no official word on torque, they did explain the new QX56 can tow 8,500 pounds. And the big boy's seven-speed automatic allows it to get an almost, kinda respectable 20 mpg on the highway.

Most noteworthy is the inclusion of a Hydraulic Body Motion Control system that Infiniti claims reduces body roll by 40%. It uses an X-corner fluid distribution system (similar to how the Audi RS4 is suspended) that moves suspension fluid from the left front damper to the right rear, and vice-versa. Infiniti also claims the system is so effective that new QX56 has less body roll than the BMW 5 Series. Either way, the QX56 goes on this sale this summer, starting at the exact same price as the old one, $56,700. Make the jump to read the press release.


Gallery: New York 2010: Infiniti QX56

Gallery: 2011 Infiniti QX56

Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright ©2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Infiniti QX56 priced identical to 2010 model at $56,700

New York 2010: 2011 Infiniti QX56 priced identical to 2010 model at $56,700 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]> Filed under: , , , ,


2011 Infiniti QX56 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a quite entertaining piece of both gravity and physiology-defying strangeness from some smiley Cirque de Soleil performers (Infiniti is the official sponsor of Cirque de Soleil), Infiniti's product boss Carlos Tavares took the wraps off the all-new QX56. Based not on the Nissan Armada chassis (like the previous QX56) but instead on the heavy-duty Patrol, the new QX56 is a large, eight passenger "5-Star Luxury" body on frame SUV. That said, Infiniti managed to shed over 100 pound of flab compared to the 2010 QX56.

Speaking of the 2010 iteration, the previous QX56 is roundly regarded as one of the most awkward and ungainly looking luxo-barges, well, ever. In fact, if we were to put together a museum exhibit about the uncontrolled and obnoxious wild excesses of the just-ended SUV craze, the old QX would get top billing right next to a Hummer H2 and the Cadillac Escalade EXT. The new QX56 changes all that. It's world's better looking. We'd even go so far as to state that it has a certain Middle Eastern chic to it. Put it like this: if you had to cruise around your kingdom checking oil wells what would you rather be driving?

Infiniti is billing the QX56 as an eight-passenger private jet. Mr. Tavares must have said the word "luxury" a dozen times in his ten-minute presentation. Judging by our time with the all-new 2011 M37 and M56, we can declare then when they want to, Infiniti is fully capable of building a world-class interior. In the 2011 QX56, even the third-row reclines. Oh, they've also seen fit to stuff seven-inch color displays into the backs of the front head rests.

Hardware-wise, the QX56 is a body-on-frame full-size SUV sporting the same 5.6-liter variable-timing, direct-injection V8 as the M56, although in QX-trim it "only" makes 400 horsepower. However, while Infiniti had no official word on torque, they did explain the new QX56 can tow 8,500 pounds. And the big boy's seven-speed automatic allows it to get an almost, kinda respectable 20 mpg on the highway.

Most noteworthy is the inclusion of a Hydraulic Body Motion Control system that Infiniti claims reduces body roll by 40%. It uses an X-corner fluid distribution system (similar to how the Audi RS4 is suspended) that moves suspension fluid from the left front damper to the right rear, and vice-versa. Infiniti also claims the system is so effective that new QX56 has less body roll than the BMW 5 Series. Either way, the QX56 goes on this sale this summer, starting at the exact same price as the old one, $56,700. Make the jump to read the press release.


Gallery: New York 2010: Infiniti QX56

Gallery: 2011 Infiniti QX56

Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright ©2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Infiniti QX56 priced identical to 2010 model at $56,700

New York 2010: 2011 Infiniti QX56 priced identical to 2010 model at $56,700 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink]]>