2008 Infiniti EX35/ In-Depth: Tech Features

Cars.com’s Kelsey Mays shows you the tech features in the 2008 Infiniti EX35. Shot and produced by: Sarah Gersh Edited by: Lindsay Bjerregaard

Infiniti M – First look

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By Jim Meachen
MyCarData


SAN DIEGO – Infiniti has rolled out its new flagship M and it’s a winner.

The third generation is more stylish, more powerful, more fuel-efficient and more technologically advanced than the car it replaces. When a manufacturer puts out an all-new vehicle and it answers every question with a very emphatic yes, than they’ve done their job.

We predict that the new M will emulate the reworked mid-sized G37, which has been racking up awards and winning favorable press at every turn.
The 2011 M is now in showrooms in two versions, the M37 with a 3.7-liter 330-horsepower V-6 under hood and the M56 with a monster 5.6-liter 420-horsepower V-8.

Both editions come standard with a seven-speed automatic transmissions and both can be outfitted with all-wheel drive. A sport package that includes four-wheel active steering, larger brakes, shift paddles, sports seats, and 20-inch alloy wheels is available.

We drove both models on hilly, winding roads outside of San Diego and both left us smiling over their handling and performance prowess.

The new V-8 version, which gains a whopping 95 horses over the previous model, is quick at all speeds providing competitive performance with anything in its class. Punch it and you get plastered to your seat. Zero-to-60 time we predict will fall in the high four-second range.

While the M56 was a hoot to drive, we found that the V-6 was an ideal match for the new slightly larger M. It was right there all the time, and it would not surprise us to eventually see published times well below six seconds in the ubiquitous 0-to-60 run.

Infiniti officials predict that more than 85 percent of M buyers will opt for the M37 starting at $46,250. The muscle-bound M56 starts at $57,550. Add about $2,200 for all-wheel drive in either version.

We would be among those 85 percent and we would be delighted indeed to house a M37 in the garage.

Infiniti EX35

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By Russ Heaps
MyCarData


Scoring high on the fun-to-drive meter, the Infiniti EX35 crossover is as much a “driver’s vehicle” as it is a utility vehicle. Exhibiting the sporty driving characteristics that we have come to expect from an Infiniti, the EX35 provides just enough cargo-carrying capability to legitimatize its utility credentials. Easy on the eye, its styling sets it apart from competitors without being polarizing. Although its interior might not be as roomy as some others in the segment, it is well constructed and richly appointed. In other words, the EX35 is well qualified to hang with the high-end crossover crowd.

Sharing a platform and some mechanicals with the G37 creates expectation for gutsy acceleration and athletic handling. The EX35 doesn’t disappoint. This despite the fact that its engine and transmission are actually carryovers from the old G35 rather than borrowed from the current G37. Whether it’s the $34,665 entry-level base EX35 or the top-of-the-line $38,265 Journey AWD, every EX35 derives its giddy-up from the same 297-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. A five-speed, driver-shiftable automatic transmission shuttles engine production to the wheels. This V6/tranny duo musters sufficient power to reach 60 miles per hour from a standstill in less than seven seconds.

Both Base and Journey trim levels have standard RWD. For a $1,400 premium, either can be upgraded to AWD. The number of drive wheels makes a slight difference in fuel economy. The EPA estimates 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the RWD versions. Opting for AWD trims 1 mpg from each number. My test EX35 was the $36,865 RWD Journey.

Striking an impressive balance between acute handling and passenger comfort, the EX35′s independent four-wheel suspension uses a double-wishbone arrangement in front and a multi-link setup in the rear. Grabbing the pavement is accomplished with 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-season rubber. All of these elements conspire to deliver remarkably agile control without diminishing passenger comfort. Simply put, the EX35 feels like a sporty sedan from the driver’s seat.

Reeling in this crossover’s forward momentum falls to four-wheel disc brakes with antilock. Included in the base price are electronic stability control, traction control, emergency braking assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. Also beefing up the list of safety features are a rearview camera and six airbags.

Offered on the Journey trim as a $2,250 option is the Technology Package. It includes Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure prevention. Not only does drifting out of your lane sound an alarm when the system is engaged, but it also nudges the EX35 back into the appropriate lane. Intelligent Brake Assist with Forward Collision Warning are also included. This will automatically slow the vehicle down and even stop it when the system calculates the distance is closing between you and the vehicle in front.

Infiniti bills the EX35 as a five-passenger vehicle; however, rear-seat room is stingy at best. With less than 29 inches of legroom, the backseat is really designed for small children. Moreover, EX35 is RWD with a hump in the floor of the center seating position of the backseat rendering it even less inviting. By comparison, the Chevy Equinox has 39.9 inches of rear-seat legroom. Space for luggage behind the EX35′s second-row seat is 18.6 cubic feet. Folding down the rear seat expands cargo space to just over 47 cubic feet. This is well below the cargo-carrying capacity of its closest competitors like BMW’s X3 with 71 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. “Utility” is not the EX35′s middle name.

Highly stylized, the cabin reflects Infiniti’s luxury pedigree. Soft-touch surfaces cover the interior. A high level of craftsmanship and the abundance of quality materials combine to create an opulent environment. An eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat are covered in leather, as is the split-folding backseat.

Configured with two separate pods, the front-seat area is roomy and comfortable. Flowing into the center console, the center stack is filled with an intimidating array of buttons and controls for everything from the optional navigation system to the automatic dual-zone climate control that is standard in the Journey. While the collection of knobs and buttons looks daunting, all systems operate intuitively.

Included in the sticker price of the Base crossover are full power accessories, cruise control, tilt-telescoping steering wheel, keyless entry/ignition, heated outboard mirrors, automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, and a six-speaker audio system with CD player, satellite radio capability, iPod integration and auxiliary input jack.

Moving up to the Journey adds a six-disc CD changer, power adjustable steering wheel, sunroof, heated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and wood interior accents.

Basically there is no charge for the navigation system; however, it is included as a freebie with the $2,150 Bose and Around View Monitor Package that features an upgraded eleven-speaker Bose audio system with a 2GB hard drive for music storage. Also included is Infiniti’s Around View monitor that has cameras providing a 360-degree view around the vehicle.

If your need for real utility takes a backseat to your desire for a sporty-sedan driving experience enhanced by gobs of luxury, the EX35 is exactly what you are looking for. Its spirited performance, available technology, sumptuous living space and dynamic styling can make you forget its modest cargo-carrying capacity.

Infiniti G37 Sedan Sport

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By Dan Scanlan
MyCarData

Everybody wants to be a Bimmer.

Some come close, and some don’t.

The 2010 Infiniti G37 Sport is pretty close, yet different.

Confused? Let’s investigate with a 12-hour round trip to Atlanta, on cavernous interstates and winding country roads.

*Infiniti image ? Infiniti was begun by Nissan almost two decades ago to compete with the German luxury and sports sedans made by BMW, but with a Japanese precision. The second-generation G37 sedan gets a slight makeover from the 2007 version we last tested, but the basics are still there. Up front, a gently curved hood with shapely fenders behind a slim grill with four smoked chrome blades trimmed in chrome. The grill has a bit more pucker for 2010, over a larger lower center air intake, side vents more organic as they host foglights moved from the headlight cluster. The 370Z-like HID lights slash further into the shapely fenders, which frame 10-spoke alloys wearing 18-inch Bridgestone rubber. The windshield is just as raked as before, and the roofline still has the gentle curve before fastbacking down to the high tail with L-shaped LED taillights and a chrome integrated spoiler. But a look at the flanks show a new design line that runs off the front fender flares, under the door handles and round the rear flares. Big chrome exhaust tips peek out under a more rounded tail.

In silver, the G37S looks shapely and big, but hunkered down and purposeful ? a different look than the edgier BMW, and a bit Nissan-ish, but nice.

*Infiniti inside ? No key is needed; just tap the black door lock dimple to unlock one or all, and an ivory start/stop button does the firing up. A three-spoke steering wheel power tilts and telescopes, and like the 370Z platform the car is based on, also moves the gauge package in unison. That keeps the central 160-mph speedometer and 9,000-rpm tach in view, along with gas and temperature gauges and central trip computer. The black gauges are lit in white with purple ring accents.

The front bucket seats were comfortable and form-fitting, aided by our Sport model’s 14-way power adjustments (front passenger gets eight-way) including torso and thigh bolsters for the driver and manual under-thigh extensions in both front seats. The driver gets two memory presets and a low-set manual lumbar. Both seats are heated, with contrasting white stitching, while the pedals and left foot rest are trimmed in aluminum. A new kind of aluminum trim in the cabin accents the doors, dash and center console ? less flashy “Shodo” aluminum trim inspired by a style of Japanese calligraphy. You can voice command most functions via one steering wheel button. Cruise and stereo controls also live on the leather-wrapped wheel.

The dash center is well laid out, with satellite navigation and other functions living on a higher-resolution 7-inch central screen that offers XM NavTraffic and new NavWeather with weather radar and forecast, plus streaming audio off your Bluetooth cellphone. New functions for 2010 ? the speed limit on the road you are on is displayed on the map and flashes when you speed past it; it even gave us a red flag alert for brush fires, audibly announced. An alloy ring with compass point buttons inside lets you scroll up and down or sideways on menu items – easy enough to learn, better than BMW’s iDrive, not as good as Benz’s COMAND or Lexus new center console controller. Radio, aux, disc, setting, car info and brightness function buttons flank it. Underneath, a classic analog clock dash center with basic stereo knobs.

The standard stereo is (Sport model)a 10-speaker Infiniti “Studio on Wheels” by Bose that sounded strong and superb. The iPod interface and a 12-volt outlet reside in a small compartment under the lower center armrest, so you can download music into the 9.3-gig hard drive.

Back seats offer very good head and leg room, but there’s only a ski pass-through to the big trunk. The rear seats don’t fold.

*G37 get-up-and-go – Having a 3.7-liter V-6 with 328-hp, hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing, electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake, plus a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System for a rousing 7,600 rpm redline, meant our 4,000-mile-old sedan hit 60-mph in 6 seconds. There’s a stirring, snarling almost V-8 exhaust note, with rubber in second and very clean shifts from a close-ratio 6-speed manual funneled through a viscous limited slip differential. One note ? loose gearshift knob. The G37 Coupe we tested a year ago with 7-speed auto-box did it in 5.8 seconds in sport mode. A twin-turbo BMW 335i with 300-hp hits 60-mph in about 5.5 seconds, for comparison. Passing was effortless, downshifts reviving the great engine note while offering great power, yet our 5,000-mile-old sedan averaged a nice 26 mpg on premium after a highway trip.

With the sport-tuned four-wheel independent suspension all planted on a FM (front mid-ship) platform also shared with the Z, the ride is definitely firm. Over frost heaves on Atlanta-area interstates, we felt and heard some slap-slap. But rebound was buffered well, if quickly, offering fluid handling over winding climbing roads near Road Atlanta, the G37 easy to place with precise steering and minimal body roll in turns. It was a delight to rear-wheel-drive power out of a turn, playing in a parking lot eliciting some tail-out handled by throttle and Vehicle Dynamic Control. The power steering gave us a very direct feel at speed, and it was precise. Standard four-wheel vented disc brakes with optional R-Spec high-friction brake pads responded immediately to use and stopped the G37 time and time without fade. A BMW will dance more precisely and feel lighter doing it, but the G gets it done ? it’s all up to what you value in a sporty sedan.

*G37 greenbacks – $37,000 gets you a base G37 Sport with all above standard except the $1,850 navigation package with the 9.3-gig hard drive, XM features, voice command, back-up camera (compliments the back-up sensors) and DVD video playback when parked, Add the $370 high friction brake pads, and the final price was $40,085. A BMW 335i without navigation is a few grand more. The G37 offers up dual-stage supplemental front air bags and roof-mounted side impact air bags front and rear.

Bottom line: A 300-horsepower BMW 335i handles and looks great, but so does the G37. The gentle redesign massage adds some edge to the shape, and you can’t fault the room and storage this 4-door Z has over the Bimmer, which costs more. Like I said, pretty close, but different. I liked it.



Vehicle type

Base price $37,000 ($40,085 as tested)

Engine type aluminum 24-valve, DOHC V-6

Displacement 3.7 liters

Horsepower (net) 328 @ 7,000 rpm

Torque (lb-ft) 269 @ 5,200 rpm

Transmission 6-speed manual

Wheelbase 112.2 inches

Overall length 187.7 inches

Overall width 69.8 inches

Height 57.2 inches

Front headroom 40.5 inches

Front legroom 43.9 inches

Rear headroom 37.2 inches

Rear legroom 34.7 inches

Cargo capacity 13.5 cu.ft.

Curb weight 3,640 lbs.

Fuel capacity 20 gallons

Mileage rating 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway

2008 Infiniti G35/ In-Depth: Performance

Cars.com’s Kelsey Mays takes a look at the performance features of the 2008 Infiniti G35. It competes with the Acura TL and BMW 3 Series. Shot, edited and produced by: Lindsay Bjerregaard

Infiniti G37 Convertible

By Russ Heaps
MyCarData


Indulging the free spirit within by driving a convertible says something about you. It screams that you have a zest for life and even the time you spend getting from “A” to “B” won’t be wasted in the confining space of a coupe or sedan. Moreover, that daily dose of wind-in-your-hair, sun-in-your-face driving pleasure provides an attitude boost that carries over into your job and personal life. Is this overstating the positive effect wrangling a convertible can have on a person? Only someone content to spend his or her day hunched over a keyboard messaging Facebook friends, or lounging in a recliner watching reruns of “Cheers” might make that accusation.

Driving a convertible is a lifestyle choice. It is nearly always a trade off. Soft-top convertibles are often less insulated from engine and road noise. Convertibles are usually heavier than their hardtop relations, which translates into slower and less nimble. Sometimes the backseat shrinks with the design change from hardtop to convertible, and the trunk nearly always does. And convertibles cost more than their hardtop counterparts. In short, the open-air driving experience exacts a price, not only in additional dollars, but in practicality.

In the near-luxury melee, Infiniti manages to stand out primarily because its product lineup, from top to bottom, is fun to drive. No Infiniti model, though, better represents the brand’s fun-to-drive character than the G37. Its 328-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, athletic handling, handsome styling and inviting cockpit gang up and overwhelm shoppers in the near-luxury arena. It is the ideal platform for a convertible.

Not escaping the compromise issue, the G37 Convertible requires some sacrifice. Tipping the scales at nearly 500 pounds more than the G37 coupe, the convertible isn’t as quick. The coupe needs just over five seconds to reach 60 miles per hour from a standstill and the convertible takes about six. At 29.8 inches, rear-seat legroom in the coupe is five inches less than the sedan. Another 2.6 inches is lost in the convertible. On paper, the convertible actually provides more trunk space than the coupe (10.3 cubic feet versus 7.4 cubic feet), but that’s because the temporary spare tire is standard in the coupe and optional in the convertible. When the retractable convertible top is stowed under the trunklid, hauling space shrinks to a measly 2 cubic feet. And this space is configured in such a way as to render it almost unusable unless your cargo consists of a couple of ham sandwiches.

Once you are over the fact that the G37 Convertible isn’t the most practical of choices, it is much easier to focus on all the check marks in the “Plus” column.

Infiniti offers the convertible in two flavors. My test G37 was the $44,350 base version. There is also a $47,805 Sport model. Additionally Infiniti included a convertible among its limited-production Anniversary Editions and it rings the register at $55,755. Built to commemorate Infiniti’s 20th anniversary, the Anniversary Edition will be available for a short time and in very limited numbers.

Sending power to the rear wheels is the job of a seven-speed driver-shiftable automatic transmission in the base and Anniversary Edition convertibles and a six-speed manual in the Sport trim. At 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 1 mpg less in the automatic-equipped convertibles than in the coupe. Opting for the Sport and its manual transmission shaves yet another 1 mph off those numbers.

When putting a foot into the accelerator, not only is there a rush from the goose in velocity; but the menacing growl of the exhaust note elevates the thrill. At such times, you’ll have to really concentrate to remember that your two-suiter is stowed in the backseat because the retractable hardtop is hogging all the trunk space.

Connecting you with the pavement falls to 18-inch alloy wheels and tires. Front and rear stabilizer bars shore up the double-wishbone setup in front and multi-link arrangement in the rear, all of which comprises the four-wheel independent suspension.

Four-wheel antilock disc brakes on all four wheels are the core of a system that includes traction control, stability control, emergency braking assist and electronic brakeforce distribution.

Infiniti touts this convertible as seating four, but is best suited for two. Although the rear seat is usable in a pinch, it is anything but inviting. The eight-way power-adjustable front bucket seats, however, are generous with beefy lateral support. Leather covers the seating surfaces. The center stack neatly arranges controls for the available $1,850 navigation system, six-speaker audio system with its CD player and iPod integrated connection, and the dual-zone automatic climate control. A seven-inch color display with a mouse-like controller are located atop the center stack.

Other standard equipment includes full power accessories, six airbags, tilt-telescoping steering wheel with redundant audio controls, USB connection, keyless ignition, rear-view camera and an electrochromatic rearview mirror.

The Anniversary Edition comes standard with the Premium ($3,250) and Navigation Packages that are optional on other convertibles. It also has a unique Monaco Red Leather interior accented with real red-toned maple.

Practicality may take a backseat to indulging the inner child in the G37 Convertible, but sometimes you just have to live a little.

Infiniti QX – New 2011 Luxury SUV

Source Infiniti
MyCarData


2011 Infiniti QX Offers Bold Exterior, Powerful Yet Efficient 5.6-liter DIG? V8 and World-Class Luxury Interior
? All-New Second-Generation QX56 Full-Size Performance Luxury SUV Features Advanced Technology, Including Hydraulic Body Motion Control System

It starts with a breathtaking presence, a calm strength derived of clean fluid lines that attract and hold your attention. It continues with the highest level of luxury, not just for the driver and front seat passenger, but all occupants ? world class, personalized control over their environments for passengers in every seat in the house. Add in an exceptional driving experience provided by a powerful yet efficient V8 engine design and available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system. Then top it all off with intuitive functionality, which anticipates and responds to the users’ needs and desires. Introducing the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX, the latest example of inspired design, performance, technology and craftsmanship from Infiniti. Available in two models, the QX56 2WD and QX56 4WD, it is scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in summer 2010.

“Following closely on the introduction of the all-new 2011 Infiniti M, the 2011 Infiniti QX gives us an incredible presence in full-size performance luxury vehicles ? perfect for buyers seeking style, comfort, roominess and driving exhilaration,” said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Business Unit. “Both the new M and QX also offer a full range of available innovative technology, including Blind Spot Warning and the QX’s advanced Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.”

The second-generation Infiniti QX has been totally redesigned from the platform up. Its new high-stiffness frame structure enhances ride comfort while reducing noise, vibration and harshness. The new 5.6-liter V8 engine combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti’s VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG?) and 7-speed automatic transmission. With 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, the QX can handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing capacity), while also offering more than 10% better fuel economy than the previous generation QX.

Inside the distinctive QX body is an interior long on luxury, including standard Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View? Monitor and Bose® 2-channel, 13-speaker Premium Audio System, and available perforated semi-aniline leather seating and a dual 7-inch color monitor DVD system which allows different sources to be played at the same time. The 2011 QX also offers ample 1st and 2nd row roominess, as well as generous luggage space.

An All-New Exterior With A Breathtaking Presence
The 2011 Infiniti QX is conceived to attract and hold viewers’ attention, conveying its underlying sense of power and strength. The design is dynamic, its size capable of transporting eight adults and their belongings with spacious elegance. The bold front chrome grille is flanked by automatic on/off bi-functional xenon headlights with available headlight washers and integrated front fog lights. Auto-leveling headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) are optionally available.

Other exterior features include LED taillights, heated, power-folding sideview mirrors with integrated turn signals, courtesy lights and reverse tilt-down feature, body color running boards, body color integrated front and rear splash guards built into the wheel arches, roof rails, power sliding tinted glass moonroof and a power rear liftgate.

The new QX features revised dimensions versus the previous generation ? 1.4-inches longer, 1.1-inches wider and 3.8-inches lower in overall height. A front underbody spoiler, rear liftgate spoiler and redesigned side mirrors help provide improved aerodynamics of 0.37 Cd and zero lift. The QX’s strong presence is accented by the powerful wheel and tire combinations ? standard 20-inch and available 22-inch ? and a palette of six distinctive exterior colors.

“The look is clearly Infiniti with its signature Infiniti grille, broad shoulders and large greenhouse,” said Poore. “It’s rugged, sophisticated and completely captivating.”

Power and Innovation Under the Skin
The 2011 Infiniti QX’s all-new body and frame are designed to provide enhanced body stiffness and reduced vibration versus the previous QX design.

Structural changes include a new high-stiffness frame structure with enlarged side rail section width, redesigned connecting structures between each crossmember and side rails, an integrated rear hitch member, improved stiffness of the cabin mounting points and a special rear body ring structure around the tailgate.

“Customers will never be aware of the extensive efforts taken in the development of the QX frame and body to reduce flex, rattles and squeaks ? they’ll just enjoy a quiet, comfortable ride that’s unexpected in a full-size SUV,” added Poore. “The new platform can handle family adventures to rugged terrain, without compromising its smooth ride for everyday, around-town cruising.”

The second-generation Infiniti QX also offers new engine and transmission designs ? delivering, a combination of power, efficiency and refinement worthy of the Infiniti name. The new 5.6-liter 32-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy V8 features Infiniti’s advanced VVEL (for Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology and new Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG?) system.

The VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side to help improve performance and response. Throttle response is enhanced by directly controlling the intake valve, rather than using the traditional method of controlling intake with the throttle valve. The VVEL system also offers improved emissions and fuel efficiency (over non-VVEL designs) by substantially reducing the intake resistance that occurs when the engine’s throttle valve opening is narrowed and output is low. The new DIG? system provides better wide-open throttle performance and improved fuel economy and emissions performance by reducing engine knock, improving combustion stability and offering more precise injection control.

The engine is rated at 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, compared with 320 horsepower and 393 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2010 QX’s non-VVEL/non-DIG? V8. With a 25% increase in horsepower, the 2011 QX does not sacrifice fuel economy, which increases by more than 10% versus the 2010 QX.

Also contributing to the enhanced fuel economy is the 2011 QX’s standard 7-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and manual shift mode with Downshift Rev Match.

Versus the 2010 QX’s 5-speed automatic, the new 7-speed transmission boasts a wider range of gear ratios, a variable lockup torque converter, a new improved shift schedule and a new automatic transmission fluid warmer designed to reduce fuel consumption at start up.

The QX is offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, with the 4WD model featuring Infiniti’s proven All-Mode 4WD? system with Auto, 4H, and 4L modes. The system is designed to distribute torque to all four wheels when road conditions warrant (up to 50 percent can go to the front wheels on demand), helping to enhance traction.

All QX models also include Hill Start Assist. With Hill Start Assist, if a driver stops on a slope and steps off the brake pedal, the system will keep the QX stationary for a few seconds ? with no roll back. This enables drivers to easily switch from the brake pedal to the accelerator on steep inclines.

For the first time ever on an Infiniti vehicle, a new Hydraulic Body Motion Control system is offered (available on both 2WD and 4WD models as part of the Deluxe Touring Package, which also includes 22-inch wheels and tires and a number of other features). The system helps reduce body lean while turning for a more comfortable ride. Utilizing hydraulic cylinders located at the shock absorbers (connected via cross piping and two accumulators), it adjusts roll stiffness by allowing transfer of fluid between the left and right sides of the vehicle through passive weight transfer during normal driving. It also helps reduce bump shock by setting bounce and roll damping forces separately.

The QX’s suspension is an independent double-wishbone design front and rear, with Dual-Flow Path® twin tube shock absorbers, stabilizer bars and an automatic rear leveling system that seeks to maintain uniform ground clearance and departure angle, even when towing or carrying cargo, by automatically adjusting the air pressure in the system’s air bladders.

Braking is provided by 4-wheel disc brakes (13.8-inch vented discs front and rear) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 2-wheel or 4-wheel Active Brake Limited-Slip (ABLS) are standard on every QX56. Engine-speed-sensitive power steering is also standard.

The QX’s maximum towing capacity is 8,500 pounds for both 2WD and 4WD models. A special tow mode revises shift patterns when engaged. Standard towing features include a Class IV tow hitch and 7-pin wiring harness integrated into the rear bumper (with a cover for an elegant appearance when not in use).

Every 2011 QX comes with 20-inch, split 7-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with P275/60R20 all-season performance tires, while 22-inch, 9-spoke forged aluminum-alloy wheels with P275/50R22 all-season performance tires are included with the Deluxe Touring Package. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with four-corner pressure readout and Tire Inflation Indicator is also standard.

“The new QX gives drivers the feeling of a connection to the road,” said Poore. “There’s also a remarkable level of flat ride comfort, plenty of power and torque, and a solid feel throughout the vehicle that’s reassuring and enjoyable for all passengers.”

A World-Class Travel Experience
The new QX’s world-class inner sanctum offers a comfortable space and personal controls for every occupant. It features standard 7-passenger seating capacity, with 8-passenger capacity available with the 2nd row 60/40-split folding bench seat. Leather-appointed seating is standard for all three rows, with even more luxurious semi-aniline leather seating surfaces offered in the Deluxe Touring Package. The driver’s seat is 10-way power adjustable, including 2-way power lumbar support. It features a standard dual occupant memory system for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors. The front passenger’s seat is 8-way power adjustable, including 2-way power lumbar support. Heated front seat are standard, with available climate-controlled (heating and cooling functions) front seats and heated 2nd row seats (outboard positions only). The 2nd row captain’s chairs offer a tip-up function for easy 3rd row entry/exit.

Also available is a remote release for the 2nd row seats to active the tip-up function through a switch on the center stack. The 3rd row seat is a 60/40-split power folding design with reclining capability. The 2nd row center console includes two cupholders and two storage bins.

Also standard is a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Ample space for luggage is provided with the 3rd row seat up. When down, the flat load floor offers a wide, versatile space for carrying cargo, home furnishings or recreational gear.

Two interior colors are available ? Wheat or Graphite ? along with two interior finisher colors, a standard light trim or a darker trim with the Deluxe Touring Package.

“If you could take the interior of a private jet and transform it into a full-size SUV, this wouldn’t be far off,” said Poore. “From its available sofa-like semi-aniline leather seating to its premium audio and three-source entertainment systems, the QX interior is world-class. It’s a highly adaptive environment, with a quality and quietness that adds to the stress-free driving and riding experience.”

The long list of additional comfort and convenience features includes 9 cupholders and 4 door-pocket bottle holders, Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, FineVision electroluminescent gauges and Infiniti signature analog clock. Available as part of the Deluxe Touring Package is an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster? air purifier, Grape Polyphenol filter and auto recirculation.

Among the new QX’s available premium entertainment and technology features are an 8-inch WVGA color touch-screen display, Infiniti Controller for use with vehicle information systems and comfort and convenience features, and the Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information, XM NavWeather? with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Zagat® Restaurant Guide. Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System is standard, as is the convenient Around View? Monitor with Front and Rear Sonar System. The Around View? Monitor includes a new wide rear view camera.

The Bose® 2-channel, 13-speaker Premium Audio System includes two subwoofers. Roof-mounted 3rd row speakers ensure that sound quality us not compromised by obstructions such as luggage or cargo.

Other standard equipment includes a single in-dash CD/DVD player with MP3 playback, XM® Satellite Radio, USB connection port for use with iPod® Interface or other compatible devices and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®.

The available Theater Package features dual 7-inch color monitors, two pairs of wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary input jacks and 120V power outlet. The QX allows playback of games or movies in the rear, while front occupants listen to audio all at the same time. The two 7-inch color monitors include an auto-bright system that adjusts for daytime, clouds/evening and night/tunnel lighting.

Available Technology
Like the new 2011 Infiniti M sedan, the new QX offers a range of advanced technology systems. The QX includes both Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. The LDW and LDP systems use a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle, calculate its position relative to those lane markers and help warn the driver of a potential unintended lane departure with a visual indicator and audible buzzer. If the driver does not return the vehicle back toward the center of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver with a gentle application of the brakes on the opposite side of the drift.

A new Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system is also available. It illuminates an indicator light if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then activates the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible warning sounds.

Optional on the new QX56 is Infiniti’s advanced Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), which, using a combination of laser sensors, throttle and brake actuators and the QX56′s braking system, measures the distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically adjusts the QX56′s speed to maintain a pre-selected following distance.

Distance Control Assist (DCA), which intuitively prompts the driver to release the throttle and applies the brakes as needed in slowing traffic, is available as part of the Technology Package ? along with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and front Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

The QX56′s extensive list of standard safety features includes an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for outboard occupant head protection for all three rows; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, load limiters and seat belt reminder; 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants (including center position); front seat Active Head Restraints; and LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren). The QX56 also offers Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and steel side-door guard beams.

“The new Infiniti QX utilizes technology, such as Distance Control Assist and Intelligent Cruise Control, as it should be ? to help reduce the stress of driving without isolating the driver from the pleasure of driving,” said Poore.

Models and Packages
The 2011 Infiniti QX is available in two well-equipped models: Infiniti QX56 2WD and Infiniti QX56 4WD. Each is equipped with the advanced 5.6-liter V8 and 7-speed automatic transmission and a full range of luxury and performance features including leather-appointed seating, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View? Monitor and premium audio system.

A number of additional equipment packages are offered, allowing buyers to fine-tune their QX experience to their exact needs. The Deluxe Touring Package includes 22-inch, 9-spoke forged aluminum-alloy wheels and P275/50R22 all-season performance tires, Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, climate-controlled front seats, heated 2nd row seats (outboard only), remote tip-up 2nd row rear seats for easy 3rd row entry/exit, semi-aniline leather seating surfaces, and the Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS). The Deluxe Touring Package also includes headlight washers on the QX56 4WD.

The QX’s Theater Package features dual 7-inch color monitors, two pairs of wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary inputs and 120V power outlet, while the Split Bench Seat Package includes the 2nd row bench seat with 60/40-split folding.

Finally, the Technology Package offers Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts, and Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights.

New VW GTI, Hybrid Infiniti M, Formula 1 Point System Cha…

Volkswagen gives details on its latest GTI. Will the king of the hot hatchbacks keep continue its reign? The latest on the Hybrid Infiniti M, and more drama with the F1 Point System Change. Hosted by Derek deangelis.

Infiniti Luxury, Volkswagen Value

By Casey Williams – www.car-data.com

For nearly $44,000 loaded, the 2008 Infiniti EX35 is a great touring wagon with the performanceof a sport sedan with space for five and an enormous amount of luggage. Interior materials are toprate, complementing exquisite design inside and out. It offers a power moonroof, XM SatelliteRadio, electronic stability control, keyless entry, large analog gauges, and smooth-shiftingautomatic transmission.

The Infiniti is a great car, but if you only have about $20k less, check out the 2008 VolkswagenJetta SportWagen.

The front half of the ‘Wagen looks like a Jetta with its sleek nose, chrome grille surround,clear lens headlamps, and large VW logo.

Typical of Volkswagens, the car looks expensive and refined.

Looking down the side, one sees what makes this Jetta different – a long wagon rear section.From the back, wrap-around tail lamps could just as easily come from Mercedes as VW.

Leather-lined Wagen interiors look and smell great, but there’s also nothing wrong with versionsequipped with a rubber three-spoke sport steering wheel and faux leather seats. Few people willrealize the high-quality vinyl is not actually leather – especially when they crank up the heatedcushions. Skip the available navigation system and you’ll still enjoy sweet tunes from the 6-discchanger and iPOD input. As with every other Jetta, the Wagen is easy to drive hard with largeblue-lit analog gauges, simple controls, and thickly bolstered seats. Safety is enhanced with sidecurtain airbags.

Auto up/down power windows are convenient, but the dual glass pane roof takes the Wagen intoluxury garages. Rear passengers sit up high on a firm, but comfortable, bench with large centerarmrest and cupholders.

But, having the skylight makes them feel as special as front occupants.

When one needs more space for bicycles, surfboards, or stuff from the home store, they can folddown the rear seats and open up a cargo compartment that rivals those from SUVs.

At the heart of the wagon is a 20-valve, DOHC, 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine that generates 170horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque

- all connected to the front wheels through a standard five-speed manual transmission oroptional six-speed automatic. If that’s not enough, ask for the available 2.0-litre turbochargedfour-cylinder with 200 horsepower.

Either way, you won’t want for performance. The five-cylinder pulls the car from 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds with the turbo-four taking it down to 6.9 seconds. Turbo models can reach 127-mph.Fuel economy is rated 21/29-MPG city/highway.

Even with the base engine, plenty of power is available.

You don’t feel a big whoosh off the line, but the acceleration is solid past triple digits.Driving at higher speeds instills confidence as the suspension keeps you in touch with the road,steering tightens, and the automatic transmission gives you just the right amount of downshiftthrough a throttle that allows you to step down with precision. You can almost think a downshiftof one, two, or three speeds and conjure them up with your big toe. Four-wheel anti-lock discbrakes and electronic stability control deploy the parachute if traffic stops suddenly or if slickroads put you counter to your intended path.

Volkswagen will bring much-appreciated improvements to the Jetta SportWagen for 2009. Givenhigh gas prices, the 2.0-litre clean diesel engine, producing 140 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. oftorque, can’t come soon enough. Electronic stability control and free scheduled maintenance forthe first 3 years or 36,000 miles will be standard.

Rear seat passengers get thorax side airbags like the front.

There are many luxurious touring wagons on the market from not only Infiniti, but also Cadillac,Mercedes, Chrysler, Saab, and BMW.

They’re all great for a price. With the Jetta SportWagen, you get the secure handling of a fineGerman sedan with the utility of an SUV, and with much appreciated space and features that comewith the high dollar wagons.

Base prices for the Jetta SportWagen range from $18,999 to $27,090, depending on trim andpowertrains. The 2009 TDI will start at $23,Dodge.