Hybrid cars are becoming more popular than ever due to their fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness. Infiniti, a brand known for its fine luxury automobiles, will debut its first hybrid vehicle, the M35h, at the 2010 Paris Auto Show.  Often hybrid autos will sacrifice appearances and engine power in order to achieve maximum efficiency but not this car. What differentiates this auto from the rest is its immense power, ability to each fast speeds and smooth looks. It will be available for sale in the United States at your local Infiniti dealership in the spring of 2011.

This luxury Infiniti hybrid comes equipped with an impressive V6 3.5 Ltr engine boasting a substantial 302 horsepower.  The vehicle will make use of a fifty kilowatts electric motor which is available with a seven speed automatic transmission.  The motor engine produces 258 lb feet of torque and the battery powered electric motor outputs 199 lb feet of torque.  This auto will weigh around 265 pounds heavier compared to a standard M37 car and this is because of the fact that hybrids are generally heavier versus traditional cars.  Car experts estimate the fuel economy to be at approximately 32 mpg although public gas mileage numbers have not yet been released by the manufacturer.

When it comes to speed, the 35Mh separates itself from the other hybrids by running much faster than the pack. This car is really fast for a  hybrid, it goes from 0-60 in only 5.9 seconds and can even reach  speeds of up to 155 mph. This auto also sports an advanced braking and steering wheel systems, both of which result in the car being more efficient. The brakes make use of the Electric Driven Intelligence Brake System which charges the battery pack any time the driver steps on the brakes while the steering mechanism is a mixture of an electric and a hydraulic system.

One of the trims which will be available for the choosing is the Premium one, which will add in decadent amenities such as a sixteen speaker Bose audio sound, Active Noise Control for a more peaceful driving experience, an advanced navigation system and a Lane Departure alert system. The auto will also showcase Infiniti’s advanced climate control settings with Forest Air, which leaves the interior smelling like a calm forest breeze, optimizes humidity and prevents unpleasant odors from entering the cabin.

Official prices have not yet been released by the automaker but automotive experts have estimated the starting cost of the M35h to be around the fifty thousand dollar range.  If you are ready to go green but don’t want to sacrifice on speed, power and luxury then this car may just be your ticket. With so much power and speed, the 35Mh is sure to make a great impact in the hybrid luxury segment.

One of Infiniti’s more popular cars, the M37 received a slight update for 2011 with a more daring profile and wider stance. The hood is more shaped and the car’s lines are smooth and sleek. Just one single trim is available but there are various optional packages available; Deluxe Touring, Technology, Sport Touring, Deluxe Touring and Premium.

This vehicle competes in the highly competitive luxury  models such as the Mercedes Benz E-Class, BMW 5-series, the Lexus GS models and Jaguar XF. The engine is a powerful 3.7 Liter V6 engine with 330 horsepower. The vehicle can be driven in 4 modes: Eco, Sport, Normal and Snow. Gas mileage is at 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the freeway. The M37 travels from zero to sixty in just 5.9 seconds.

The new 2011 M37 comes equipped with sleek 5-spoke 18″ alloy wheels, xenon headlights and a moonroof. Dual exhaust with chrome tips are in place plus UV reducing solar glass has been installed in order to ensure that you are always cool and comfortable. Seven speeds are available for the transmission system which can be used in manual-shift mode. An optional “Eco-Pedal” system is available which promotes more driving habits that are conducive with fuel economy.

Quality materials were used in the cabin; it is appointed with luxurious leather throughout. A center console sits between the front seats with instrument controls. The front seats are temperature controlled plus there is Push Button Ignition available. A Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control is in place, plus compatibility with Bluetooth for hands free calling. A USB connection port allows you to connect your Ipod music device. The premium package includes a Bose audio system with ten speakers, a DVD player and a 9.3 music storage drive for the ultimate entertainment system. An optional navigation system can be added which includes voice recognition and real-time traffic updates and info.

Infiniti engineers included numerous safety features in order to maximize occupant safety. The M37 features the Blind Spot Intervention system which lets you know when other vehicles are in your blind spot and actually assists you back towards your lane if you start to cross over into the adjacent lane. Intelligent Brake Assist helps to adjust and apply brake pressure as necessary and the Forward Collision Warning system gives an audible warning if it senses an impending accident or collision ahead. Extra safety features include front and side curtain airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control and Anti Lock Brakes.

The starting price for the 2011 Infiniti M37 is approximately $46k but will vary depending on the optional packages selected. This vehicle is another option to consider if you are browsing vehicles in the luxury segment; it offers a variety of amenities and a substantial amount of power for its class. View a large selection of new Infiniti vehicles here.

If you are looking for an Infiniti vehicle, feel free to inquire at any of the Infiniti Dealerships below.

West Houston Infiniti, 12200 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77079,  281-589-8900

Infiniti Marin, 475 Francisco Blvd East, San Rafael CA 94901, (800) 459-5816

Infiniti of Montclair,9440 Autoplex  Drive, Montclair, CA 91763, (800) 536-9217

Cerritos Infiniti, 1101 East South Street, Cerritos, CA 90703, (888) 365-6899

The standard V-8 engine now puts out 80 more HP than the 2010 SUV.  With a torque output of 413 ft-pounds, the big 5.7 liter V-8 engine has a huge towing capacity of 8k pounds.  The new QX56 engine uses Nissan’s patented VVEL science which stands for Variable Valve Event and Lift.  The QX56 also employs the best transmission available from Nissan in the form of a trick 7-speed.  Infiniti put this science into the QX56 in order to raise the fuel economy numbers.  Infiniti estimates that the gas mileage will improvement to 13 MPG and 20 MPG.  Not bad for a full sized SUV.  The QX56 ranks at the top of the ladder for MPG in the full sized category.  The new QX56 can go over 250 miles between gas stops and the tank holds almost 30 gallons of fuel.

On the inside the QX56 can seat 7 or 8 passengers depending on the configuration.  There is plenty of interior space in the cabin of the SUV.  Be sure to get the 2nd row chairs instead of the bench seating.  There is also a center console in the rear.  The 2011 QX56 has plenty of televisions, air-vents, and room for all passengers.  On the back of the front passenger seats there are dual 7-inch TV’s.  The fresh 2011 Infiniti QX56 will also be a bit lighter than the old generation by about 100 pounds.

The newest SUV offering from Infiniti contains technologically advanced features.  One innovative and up-to-date Infiniti advancement is the Hydraulic Body Motion Control System.  This limits body roll while turning which is important in a full sized SUV.  Fluid fills the outside shock absorbers making the sport utility vehicle more steady.  Believe it or not this system keeps the SUV more stable than a BMW 5-series.

Infiniti’s dedication to safety is visible on the fresh QX56.   Traction Control is a key feature in keeping SUV safe from a roll over.  The traction control can send muscle to the wheels that need it.  Numerous systems overlap each other to create a large network of safety features.  On the inside the QX56 has a myriad of front and curtain side airbags for all passengers, even those seated in the rear of the SUV.  The Intelligent Brakes can automatically reduce speed if a collision is imminent. Pretty much all luxury vehicles today are equipped with some sort of lane departure warning system and the QX56 is one of these automobiles.  The intelligent cruise control adapts to follow the flow of traffic.   The blind spot warning alerts the driver ensuring safe lane changes.  The QX56 is a value at a little over $55,000 in the luxury sport utility vehicle segment.

Under the hood the M37 has a variable valve event and lift (VVEL-equipped) 3.7–liter V-6 engine that delivers 327 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque enabling it to leap from 0 to 60 mph in about 6 seconds. A new multilink rear suspension and 4 wheel steering system enables the M37 to glide around corners. The New Infiniti M37 is more fuel efficient than its predecessor and is equipped with Infiniti Drive, which allows for four modes of transmission operation: Standard, Eco, Sport and Snow.

The new M is about 2 inches longer and wider than the M35 allowing for a skosh more space in the cabin. The interior is luxuriously appointed with quality materials including hand crafted wood accents and leather trim. An easy to read instrument panel sits aside the center dash which houses the audio, navigation and climate control systems. Perhaps the most innovative new feature is the air-conditioning system which filters out odors, controls for humidity and can even create a soothing breeze to comfort passengers.

The exterior of the 2011 Infiniti M37 has similar features to the Infiniti’s concept car, the Essence, which has been teasing audiences with its good looks for years. At first glance the M37 appears muscular and sturdy but a second look reveals elegant lines from the roof line to the grill and along the sleek body style. The M37 is a rare combination of power, strength and grace for around $50,000. Look for them to arrive at dealerships spring 2010.

Luxury cars offer the latest and greatest safety features. Manufacturers of luxury cars spend the extra money to research and design new safety features. Indeed, many of the safety features found in the general car market today, like air bags and anti-lock brakes were first introduced in luxury vehicles. The cost of developing these innovations drives up the price of luxury cars, but they consistently have higher safety ratings than less expensive cars.

Luxury cars come with more and better standard features.  After all, buyers who are willing to pay for a luxury vehicle don’t want a stripped down model. Additionally, luxury car manufacturers offer a wider variety of options. You can get heated leather seats, headrest mounted dvd players and surround sound Bose stereo systems that work with your iPod. You can get plush interiors including soft leather and real wood trim. Keyless entry and ignition, night vision displays and integrated child booster seats are some of the newer available options.

The performance offered by a luxury car is better than other cars. The manufacturer spent more time and used better materials to make sure that their top of the line cars have superior handling and enhanced aesthetic value.

Luxury automakers offer longer and more comprehensive warranties. Coupled with better reliability, it could be said that the luxury car owner pays more upfront to save on repairs later. Dealership service departments offer a first-class experience too. You’re more likely to enjoy free wi-fi and gourmet coffee while waiting for your car. If it needs to stay in the shop for a few days, you’re likely to get a luxury car for a loaner.
Even in these difficult times, prestige and image are still valuable. People who want their car to convey their status and exemplify their success will want to be seen in a luxury car. Even those who just want the very best available, and can afford it, will always gravitate toward the luxury car market.

Like the rest of the automobile industry, luxury carmakers are seeing decreased sales and tough times. But in the long term, luxury cars will survive and thrive because they do offer real value to the consumer. Whether you’re looking for a top of the line sports car with excellent handling, a professional looking car with comfort and safety, or a combination of the two, you’ll always be able to find it.

If you live in Southern California, start at these places. Infiniti CA, Infiniti G35 Riverside and
Costa Mesa Cadillac.

The engines will still be made in Tennessee, then shipped to Japan to be installed in the cars, which will then be shipped back to the U.S. for sale. How can that make sense? Well, it appears that the time and cost involved in shipping is less expensive than setting up an engine plant in Japan.

But for how long? Inifiniti sold 7,657 units in 2008, down from 12,288 in 2007. But as the economic recovery progresses, Americans will again buy luxury SUVs. In fact, inventories of the Infiniti QX56 have been too low this summer. Ben Poore, the Vice President of Infiniti’s business unit in North America has already asked Nissan to increase production.

Will increased demand make it worth it for Nissan to build a plant in Japan to make the engines as well as the rest of the vehicle? Or will the shipping costs kick in and cause Nissan to move the production in the Infiniti QX56 back to the U.S.?

Source: Automotive News