03 Mar 09 14:02
A swooping 592bhp hybrid coupe, the Essence celebrates the 20th anniversary of Nissan's Infiniti brand.
It also 'showcases many of the technologies, including hybrid, and design cues that will distinguish Infiniti production cars of the coming years', says the company, which is launching in Europe later this year.
The Essence is a long (4.7) and rear-wheel-drive two-seater, developed with wealthy but young, sports-focused drivers in mind. Its designers wanted to create something of a cult vehicle, rather than an all-out aggressive attention-grabber. It had to be clearly Japanese - its curves and shapes are said to have been inspired by the wide, sweeping brushstrokes of Japanese calligraphy.
Surface clutter is kept to a minimum, with only strips of stainless steel up front for grille, no foglights, push-buttons in place of door handles and tiny rear-view cameras in the A-pillars instead of mirrors. Stainless steel is used again at the rear for a spoiler edge, contrasting with a row of red LEDs and L-shaped taillights. A full-length glass roof keeps the cabin light and airy.
The cockpit is similarly simple, designed for 'comfort, calm and elegance', and with two distinct 'cocoons' for driver (trimmed in red) and passenger (black) separated by a large, curved console. The controls are more traditional, with chronometer-type dials, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, red starter button and large analogue clock. Upholstery is leather and Alcantara, with hand-painted wood trim inspired by Japanese lacquerware - and clever details on the leather seat-back seams, which are asymmetric and mark the different ways men and women tie their kimonos.
The hybrid technology is set to make its debut in Infiniti's production vehicles shortly. This petrol-electric powertrain combines the new Nissan 3.7 V6 (as in the 370Z), boosted to 434bhp with twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection, with a 158bhp electric motor; both power sources drive the rear wheels, and the Essence can run on electric power alone for short distances at low speeds.
Equipment includes rear- and side-view cameras, distance control and lane departure prevention, side blind spot warning, a power-opening boot and a power-sliding boot floor - which opens up to accommodate a specially-designed three-piece set of luxury Louis Vuitton luggage.
Check out the rest of our Geneva Motor Show coverage.
