07 Mar 08
Infiniti has confirmed it'll be launching the EX37 crossover and the G37 Coupe and saloon in Europe.
The idea is to take on Japanese rival Lexus. The EX37 combines coupe styling with four-wheel-drive abilities, plus luxury cabins and the latest high-tech gadgets and driver aids. It features an around-view monitor system, the option of a seven-speed automatic gearbox and a new 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine (developed from the Nissan 350Z's 3.5).
Infiniti describes the EX as a high-riding 'sports estate', and with more than 310bhp and 258lb ft from its V6, it should be quick.
Standard equipment in the EX37 will include keyless entry/ignition, tinted glass, a six-CD audio system, Bluetooth kit, cruise control, electric-folding rear seats, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, front and rear parking sensors and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Options include full leather upholstery, heated seats, powered passenger seats, multimedia pack (sat nav, rearview parking camera, voice controls and Bose premium sound system), adaptive front lighting, adaptive cruise control an around-view monitor.
There are also personal settings for the driver's seat, steering wheel and mirrors which can be programmed into the electronic key.
The EX37 will go on sale alongside the G37 coupe - effectively a four-seat Nissan Z with the new 3.7-litre engine - and saloon.
The rear-wheel-drive G37 coupe, updated from the G35 already on sale, will come with a six-speed manual gearbox or the seven-speed auto, stability control, keyless entry/ignition, Bluetooth phone kit, a six-CD audio system, power-adjustable front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, front and rear parking sensors, 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive front lighting with bi-xenon headlights and electric folding/sliding front seats to make it easier to get in the back.
Options include a sport pack (limited-slip differential, four-wheel steering, selectable sports settings for the suspension, steering and brakes, tyre pressure monitoring, heated leather sports seats and 19-inch wheels), leather pack, rear-view camera, 11-speaker Bose sound system and intelligent cruise control. The G37 saloon is similarly specified, but will be offered with the option of the four-wheel-drive system as in the EX37.
Prices for the range have not yet been announced, and Infiniti is setting up a network of smart dealerships ready for April 2009 and working on its customer support to ensure it offers a Lexus-rivalling service.
Check out the rest of our Geneva Motor Show coverage.
