INFINITI today unveiled its first production hybrid performance luxury sedan, the all-new 2012 INFINITI M35h, during a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new INFINITI Hybrid, which is set to launch at INFINITI retailers nationwide in spring 2011, stands to break new ground as the first true luxury performance “driver’s” hybrid – and the first hybrid to offer 360 horsepower and over 40 miles per gallon fuel economy (estimated Highway mpg 41mpg or 6.9L/100km).
“Simply put, the INFINITI M Hybrid will be the most advanced performance luxury sedan hybrid in the market, delivering the V8 performance and the 4-cylinder fuel efficiency,” said Wendy Durward, Director, INFINITI Canada.
The 2012 INFINITI M Hybrid will be on display at the Los Angeles Convention Center, along with the complete line of 2011 INFINITI vehicles, from Friday, Nov. 19th through Sunday, Nov. 28th.
The INFINITI M35h features the all-new INFINITI Direct Response Hybrid™ system, an advanced one-motor, two-clutch parallel hybrid design that combines precise, high-speed motor control technology, which, enabled by the powerful Lithium-ion battery, allows power to be delivered directly to the vehicle’s 7-speed automatic transmission. The system also utilizes an innovative Hybrid Electric Power Steering system and Electric Driven Intelligent Brake regenerative braking system, both which help conserve energy and provide a natural, enjoyable driving feel.
The INFINITI M Hybrid’s exhilarating driving performance also greatly benefits from use of INFINITI’s proven 3.5-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 engine, which paired with the 50 kW electric motor, provides a hybrid system net power of 360 horsepower.
Torque figures are equally impressive, with the V6’s 258 lb-ft of toque combining with the electric motor’s immediately available 199 lb-ft of torque to provide strong performance. The result is a vehicle that first and foremost delivers a refined driving experience, along with expected best-in-class fuel economy figures of 6.9L/100km (41 mpg) Highway, 8.8L/100km (32 mpg) City and 7.4L/100km (38) mpg Combined (estimated).
In addition, the new INFINITI M35h can drive on electric power alone at speeds up to 100 kph and can travel on electric propulsion for up to 1.9 kilometres. Tests have shown that in mixed diving, the INFINITI M35h is able to drive in electric only mode for as much as 50% of the time. And, with its compact hybrid system design, the new INFINITI M35h also delivers uncompromised interior space and competitive trunk space.
The M35h also embraces the essence of all things INFINITI – style, performance, luxury, craftsmanship and technology. The INFINITI M’s dramatic, sports styling is matched with a roomy, comfortable interior environment featuring standard leather-appointed seating, silver powdered genuine White Ash wood trim, and premium audio and climate control systems.
Standard M35h features include Active Noise Control, INFINITI Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and power sliding glass tinted moonroof. The INFINITI M Hybrid also comes standard with advanced technology features, including Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI), Forest Air® system, Active Trace Control, and INFINITI Hard Drive Navigation System.
Also at the auto show, INFINITI was named by the Automotive Lease Guide as the “Best Luxury Brand” in their 12th annual ALG Residual Value Awards. The 2011 INFINITI QX56 was named “Best Luxury Fullsize Utility” vehicle.
“Within the last year, we’ve completely redesigned or enhanced 80% of our line-up. Since launch, the all-new 2011 INFINITI M and INFINITI QX are experiencing tremendous sales growth, with increases of more than 150% and nearly 50% respectively,” Durward added. “It’s an exciting time for INFINITI.”
ABOUT INFINITI
INFINITI offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles designed to inspire at every turn, including the G37 sports coupe, convertible and sedan, M37/56 luxury performance sedan, EX personal luxury crossover, FX premium crossover SUV and the QX full-size luxury SUV. More information about INFINITI and the Total Ownership Experience® can be found at www.infiniti.ca.
Media contacts:
Didier Marsaud
Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
Nissan Canada
Tel: (905) 629-6400
Cell: (416) 573 7231
Email: didier.marsaud@nissancanada.comOpens in a new window.
Heather Meehan
Cohn & Wolfe
Tel: (647) 259-3268
Cell: (416) 402-5748
Email: heather.meehan@cohnwolfe.caOpens in a new window.
