Out with the old, in with the new, or at least that's what Infiniti is saying about its new nomenclature.
Beginning from next year, Infiniti will use the letter "Q" for all sedan, coupe and convertible models and the letters "QX" for SUVs and crossovers, adding a double digit at the end of both to signify the series and the hierarchy within the range.
The first Infiniti model to wear the brand's new badges is the G series' successor that will be revealed in sedan trim at the Detroit auto show in mid-January, and which will be called the Q50.
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Even though Nissan originally created Infiniti in 1989 to cater to the needs of North American consumers, the Japanese brand has since rapidly expanded its global network that currently includes 47 countries around the globe.
This year alone, Infiniti added Singapore, Chile, the Dominican Republic, South Africa and Australia to the list of countries it operates within, with Hong Kong to follow in early 2013.
And that's no all, as on Saturday, Infiniti announced plans to begin sales in Brazil starting in 2014 with the opening of "Infiniti Centres" in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
Infiniti has released details on its U.S. market 2011 model year lineup that includes the introduction of two all-new models, the M sedan and QX full-size SUV, as well as certain enhancements for the rest of the range such as a new 7-speed automatic transmission that replaces the 5-speed auto on the EX crossover, revised package contents and equipment features, and new color options.
The Japanese automaker also noted that it will add two new models to the G range, with specific details to be announced in mid-August at the annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance , while Infiniti also reminded us that it will present the M Hybrid and a dedicated full-electric model in the very near future. For the Full Monty on all the changes, hit the break to read Infiniti's comprehensive press release.
Bulgarian design house Vilner has unleashed its new styling proposals for the inner works of the Infiniti EX37 and FX37 crossovers. Instead of going for the usual exterior upgrades and performance mods, Vilner’s team focused on improving the look and feel of the Inifniti models’ interiors.
European Infiniti shoppers have the option of ordering certain models with the firm’s new six-cylinder diesel engine and the FX luxury crossover is one of them. For those buyers that would like a light tune up of their diesel-powered FX30d there is AHG Sport, the in-house performance division of the Infiniti Centre in Hamburg, Germany.
Infiniti has rolled out the 2011 FX in Europe. For the new model year, the Japanese firm’s SUV gains new convenience and safety features along with new color and trim combinations, while keeping the same engine range, which includes two petrol units and a diesel option.
Infiniti continues to expand its reach around the world and has now confirmed plans to begin sales of its range of sedans, coupes and crossovers in Australia from the third quarter of 2012. The introduction in Australia follows the presentation of the premium brand in the UK, Western Europe and select Asia Pacific markets.
The Japanese company said it will create Infiniti Centres in each of the three major east coast capitals of the country in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. The initial lineup will include the FX sport crossover, G37 hardtop convertible and coupe, and the M luxury sedan.
"As part of Infiniti's worldwide expansion, Australia is a mandatory next step for the luxury brand," said Dan Thompson CEO, Infiniti Cars Australia. "In a little more than a year, the promise of luxury vehicles with a unique combination of inspired performance, attentive hospitality and unparalleled quality will become a reality for the Australian market.”
Nissan's luxury brand Infiniti aims to double its sales in Europe during the 2011 fiscal year, according to company officials. The expected growth will be fueled not only by the introduction of new models and powertrain options, but also by the expansion of its dealer network.
"In 2011, Western Europe will be somewhere between 7,000 and 8,000 units" said Infiniti Europe Vice President Jim Wright in an interview with Automotive News. That is a substantial increase over the 4,500 units sold in the 2010 fiscal year ending March 31, albeit still not even close to challenging the other premium automakers in Europe (i.e. BMW sold 45,600 cars in January 2011 alone).
