car sharedlippes: February 2008

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Infiniti G37 saloon details finally emerge for Europe

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Finally, after much anticipation, Infiniti are starting to release specific details on their forthcoming European range of vehicles. Infiniti have long been established in the United States as a premium luxury car maker. Initially, due to poor marketing and some lacklustre vehicles, Infiniti struggled. That all changed however when Carlos Ghosn took over the reigns of ailing parent company Nissan. As a result, Infiniti have grown from strength to strength over the last 5-6 years and much of the success stems from its “G” range of vehicles.

Think Infiniti G, think BMW 3 series. The G35 range of sports sedans and coupes were an instant hit on their release back in 2003. It regularly took top honours in comparisons and famously beat the 3 series BMW in a number of tests. Based on Nissans FM platform, the Infiniti shared a number of main components with its Nissan 350Z cousin (no bad thing). This did not prove an issue to the American consumer where Nissan have good brand loyalty, sharing componentry with a 350Z was considered attractive as Nissan's reputation for reliability and durability would be most welcome. Besides, the cars spoke for themselves offering excellent performance, chic styling and a superb owner experience.

Europeans are arguably more discerning. Or should that be snobby? Keen to distinguish Infiniti as a stand alone brand, Infiniti have chosen to equip the European G with the all new VQ37VHR 3.7L V6 with variable valve timing to create the G37 saloon. This engine is only available in the G37 coupe stateside and the saloon range makes do with the 3.5L V6 similar to the 350Z. Curiously the G37 coupe makes 330hp in the US whereas Infiniti are only quoting around 310 PS (slightly more than a hp) for this engine in Europe. Even bigger news however is Infiniti’s new 7 speed automatic option. This unit replaces the excellent 5 speed auto in other markets. Expect this gearbox to find its way into all Infinitis over the next 12 months.

The G is also available with ATTESA E-TS all wheel drive system for those tricky ski resort roads. The Sport model comes equipped with Four-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS). Infiniti will be aiming for a 5 star NCAP score with its pedestrian friendly pop up bonnet in case of collision. Infinitis are usually full of standard kit that would usually be an option on other brands so value for money and total ownership experience are very high on Infiniti’s list for Europe. We think they have a winner.

Press release

Infiniti G37: the stylish, high performing sports sedan with exclusivity as standard

For many years, designing a successful four-door sports sedan has been regarded as the preserve of the German manufacturers. But that is about to change… and it’s the Infiniti G37 that’s ready to upset the status quo.

Ironically, it’s the huge success of models from the German ‘establishment’ that’s the biggest chink in their otherwise impenetrable armour. Their resulting ubiquity no longer appeals to buyers seeking individuality.

“The Infiniti G37 will be sold in one of the most competitive sectors in the market and there’s no doubt it is up against some very impressive opposition with a fiercely loyal customer base,” says Jim Wright, Vice President, Infiniti Europe.

“But not only does the G37 match or better the establishment when it comes to style, dynamic performance, equipment levels, value, and the entire ownership experience, it has genuine exclusivity on its side.”

Infiniti G37 is a credible, confident challenger delivering substantial performance and rear-drive dynamics in a convincingly individual package. “The typical buyer of a G37 will be a free thinker, someone who appreciates quality and service and who doesn’t want to follow the herd,” says Bastien Schupp, Marketing Director, Infiniti Europe.
G37 at a glance

• Distinctive ‘sophisticated-sports’ styling
• Rear-wheel drive driving dynamics with availability of Four-Wheel Active Steer
• All-wheel drive version available
• Potent 3.7-litre V6 engine producing over 310PS
• Six-speed manual or advanced seven-speed automatic
• Class leading passive safety features with:
• Six airbags
• Pedestrian-friendly pop-up bonnet
• High level of standard equipment including “Scratch Shield” paint

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Source: Infiniti

Infiniti G37 saloon details finally emerge for Europe

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G37 in detail

Powered by a potent 3.7-litre version of VQ family of petrol engines, the G37 has been created to provide pure driving pleasure. There’s a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive models with drive taken to the wheels via a slick six-speed manual or an advanced seven-speed automatic transmission.

The Infiniti G37’s suspension – double wishbones at the front and a multi-link rear – deliver the perfect blend of sporting handling and superb ride comfort while the longer-than-class-average wheelbase results in a roomy cabin with a specific attention to rear knee room.

Just as significantly, the G37 has been fine tuned to cope with European demands and expectations. Our higher average speeds place extra demands on aerodynamic efficiency, high speed stability, ride and handling and braking performance.

To meet those demands, a special Infiniti team working within Nissan’s Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) has developed a package of changes to ensure the G37 can compete with Europe’s finest on level terms. Testing of the developments has been undertaken not just on private test tracks, but also on derestricted sections of the German Autobahnen at the infamous Nürburgring Nordschleife race track for handling and on British secondary roads for ride comfort.

Unlike many of its rivals, where judicious ticking of boxes in the options list is invariably required before a ‘complete’ car can be ordered, the G37 is comprehensively equipped as standard. There’s a full complement of standard safety equipment, too, while Infiniti’s drive for quality results in exceptionally low Noise/Vibration and Harshness, uniformly small panel gaps and excellent materials inside the cabin.

It’s clear that the G37 is a car that can take on the establishment with a convincing credibility.

Exterior styling

With its long bonnet, long wheelbase and short overhangs, the G37 blurs the boundaries between a four-door sedan and coupé. As well as providing a classic silhouette, the long bonnet is a visual reference to the G37’s ‘front midships’ engine location: the compact V6 is mounted in the front of the car, but as low and as far back as possible, with most of the block behind the front axle line. The result lowers the centre of gravity and helps to deliver the optimum front to rear weight distribution.

The low nose flows, via a curving roofline, to a high trunk to provide a feeling of motion even when the car is static. This is accentuated by a strong rising beltline, the flowing C-pillar and the muscular rear wheel arches.

To the front, the L-shaped headlamps and double-arch grille – complete with sculpted “twisted” horizontal blades inspired by traditional Japanese swords – have become Infiniti design elements helping to give the brand a distinctive face. At the rear the distinctive wraparound tail-lights are another Infiniti signature design. A neat, upswept spoiler integrated into the boot lid contributes to zero lift aerodynamics over the rear axle and completes the sporting look.

The overall effect combines obvious sporting potential with an understated sophistication that together capture the essence of the Infiniti brand.

Chassis and driving dynamics

Using the second generation version of Infiniti FM platform, the G37 has an excellent front to rear weight balance thanks to its ‘front midships’ engine location while its long wheelbase and wide front and rear track adds to the car’s overall handling stability.

Suspension design is fully independent and uses lightweight aluminium components to reduce weight as much as possible. With a racing-inspired double wishbone set up at the front, a multi-link arrangement mounted on a subframe behind and an extremely rigid bodyshell, the G37 feels agile and surefooted with a refined ride.

Alignment changes are minimised at the front through use of a single pivot lower wishbone and a long upper link. The rear design separates the shock absorbers and springs, locating the dampers in line with the wheel centre to help reduce friction and reduce wind-up under acceleration.

Four-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS) is available as part of the G37 Sport model (see standard and optional equipment). This helps improve handling performance by varying the front steering ratio and adjusting the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed.

An AWD version, known as the G37x, uses Infiniti’s ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system, as found on EX37 and FX models will also be available.

The system uses an active torque distribution management system with an active centre clutch for smooth starts, greater grip and better manoeuvrability on slippery surfaces without compromising the vehicle’s rear-wheel drive performance characteristics on dry roads.

By constantly adjusting the power – sending anything from 50 per cent to the front, to up to 100 per cent to the rear – the system generates greater control without sacrificing sportiness and true performance dynamics.

All versions of G37, whether rear- or all-wheel-drive come with Electronic Stability Program (ESP), helping to enhance vehicle stability under a variety of driving conditions. A Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) is included in the Sport model.

Power-assisted four-wheel vented disc brakes have a four-channel, four-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The power steering system is a vehicle-speed-sensing design, which provides optimum steering effort at both high and low vehicle speeds.

Engine and powertrain

At the heart of a sports sedan there needs to be a sporting engine… and this is another area where G37 delivers on its promise. It is powered by a new 3.7-litre version of VQ engine family. Regularly honoured in independent awards the world over, the twin cam 24 valve V6 produces over 310PS and an impressive over 350Nm of torque.

Among its many features, the lightweight aluminium engine features a bed-plate construction. A technique that has been used in motor racing for many years, the resulting two-part construction of the cylinder block is more rigid than a single piece casting. Among engine specialists, this configuration signifies a high-performance sporting engine which is uncompromisingly designed for the highest strength and reliability.

Other benefits include reduced vibration levels and higher engine speeds to be reached consistently without damage.

The VQ37 unit also features V-VEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology to optimise efficiency and, in turn, the balance between power, response, fuel efficiency and emissions.

V-VEL continually alters valve lift and therefore the quantity of air in the combustion chamber. At partial throttle – in stop-go city traffic, for example – it will make a small lift thus achieving a more precise fuel/air mix with lower quantities of both to improve fuel consumption. At full throttle, the valve lift is greater, inducting a larger quantity of air into the combustion chamber.

The result is a more powerful combustion phase increasing torque and power… this is felt tangibly by the driver in the instant throttle response, which is a result of using the valves to control air-flow into the cylinder – eliminating the slight delay that can be felt with engines using a conventional throttle butterfly.

Precise mapping of the engine control unit (ECU), meanwhile, helps the engine provide a progressive ‘swell’ of power and torque, providing a ‘building wave’ of acceleration rather than a peaky power delivery.

As well as a smooth shifting six-speed manual transmission, the G37 will be available with a new seven-speed automatic option with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) allowing a downshift blip control.

With its additional forward gear, the new automatic transmission has a wider spread of ratios which benefits both fuel consumption and drivability. The seventh speed is effectively an overdrive ratio, returning improved fuel economy on a steady throttle without compromising in-gear flexibility for overtaking.

Shift points are tuned to keep the engine in the largest part of the torque curve, ensuring there is always a healthy reserve when the driver wants to overtake. The linked ASC system switches between three different programs depending on input from the major control systems throughout the car.

Interior environment

The G37’s interior is an environment designed to appeal to driver and passengers alike. Quality materials provide the warmth and comfort expected in a premium car, yet the driver’s quarters have a ‘scooped-out’ design to emphasise the concept of a cockpit in direct contrast to the open, spacious design of the passenger area.

The dashboard and centre console adopts Infiniti design DNA with a ‘double wave’ upper section linked to a central vertical spine for a feeling of solidity. With roots in Japanese design, ‘Washi-style’ aluminium accents can be found through the cabin. Washi is a form of elegant Japanese handmade paper and textured aluminium trim inserts can be found on the centre console, the instrument binnacle and the door panels. Automatic versions have the option of African rosewood inserts.

At 2850mm, the wheelbase is longer than its key rivals which translates directly into more interior space for rear passengers.

Safety

A full complement of six airbags can be found as standard in G37. The front seats incorporate hip and thorax bags, while there are front-to-rear curtain airbags for protection in a side impact.

As well as offering occupants the highest level of crash protection, Infiniti has developed a pop-up bonnet to offer greater protection for pedestrians: it is a standard fitting on G37.

In the event of a collision, a small pyrotechnic charge raises the trailing edge of the bonnet close the lower edge of the windscreen. This creates a larger buffer between the bonnet and the ‘hard points’ of top of the engine, providing a more yielding surface and helping to reduce potential injuries.

Standard and optional equipment

Right from the outset, G37 has been designed to offer a full complement of standard equipment rather force prospective customers to open their wallets even wider when choosing the model of their choice.

That means every G37 has the Infiniti I-Key with smart access as standard. As soon as the vehicle identifies a pre-programmed I-Key in the vicinity, the door can be opened and the car started without the key needing to leave a pocket or handbag.

Personal settings for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors can be programmed into the key (on any car specified with leather seats) so that the key holder won’t have to reposition anything if the car has been driven by anyone else.

Also standard are a six-disc, seven speaker CD audio system, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, cruise control, power seats, auto-dimming rear view mirror, front and rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, 18-inch alloy wheels, six airbags and integrated fog lamps.

The steering wheel – leather trimmed and double stitched by hand – incorporates controls for the audio system, cruise control and telephone. The G37 also has an adaptive front-light system (AFS) as standard. The Bi-Xenon headlamps are linked to steering inputs and automatically follow the path of the front wheels to provide a wide spread of light around corners and on winding roads.

Unique to Infiniti is the use of “scratch shield” paint. A special highly elastic resin has been combined with a conventional clearcoat to increase the paint’s flexibility. A car painted with “Scratch Shield” paint can exhibit up to five times fewer scratches that a conventional clearcoat when exposed to the same conditions.

When exposed to heat, “Scratch Shield” paint repairs fine scratches, restoring painted surfaces close to their original state. It will allow a G37 to retain the brilliance of its exterior colour long after rivals have lost their glow.

Options are largely grouped into a couple of special packages. The leather package, as its name implies, includes leather seats, heated in the front, power lumbar support in the driver’s seat and eight-way adjustment for the passenger seat in place of the standard four-way adjustment.

The Sport Model provides a different style of 18-inch alloy wheel, tyre pressure monitoring, a viscous limited slip differential and sports settings for the suspension, steering and brakes (forged aluminum opposed brake calipers).

It also features Four-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS). By monitoring steering angle and vehicle speed data, the 4WAS controller calculates the difference between current performance and optimum target data which is pre-programmed into the system.

The front and rear steering angle (the amount the wheels are turning in comparison to the straight-ahead position) can then be altered to match the target performance data – which is based on the optimum possible vehicle dynamics.

Benefits of active steering include greater stability at high speed, adding to the passive safety equipment of the vehicle and working in combination with the ESP system. The driver will also be able to enjoy an even greater level of agility when cornering. 4WAS is not available with four-wheel drive.

Also included in the sports package are sports front seats. The heated and leather covered seats have thigh extensions for greater support, while the driver’s also has power operated lumbar and lateral support. As with the leather package, the passenger seat is upgraded to 8-way power adjustment. The sports package is completed by aluminium pedals and foot rest and exterior ‘S’ badging.

Finally there’s a multimedia package which includes satellite navigation, a rear view camera and a Bose premium audio system. The navigation system covers more than 30 European countries and offers Birdview as well as conventional displays on the integrated eight-inch colour screen. Voice recognition for navigation and the phone is incorporated and the screen is also used by the rear view camera to relay real time images from behind the car whenever reverse gear is selected.

The Bose premium sound system has been specially designed for G37. The loudspeakers in the 10 unit system features lightweight yet powerful neodymium magnets with an innovative driver design allowing the speakers to produce the output of a larger, heavier speaker.

Nd magnets are smaller and lighter than conventional ferrite magnets found in most speakers but are just as powerful. As a result, they help the system deliver a full rich sound while adding less weight to the vehicle. In addition, an innovative design approach, powerful digital amplifier, custom equalisation and digital signal processing help reproduce music with clarity, spaciousness and realism.

The audio system itself incorporates an in-dash six-disc CD player with AM/FM radio and has an RCA AUX-in jack socket for MP3 players.

The final option is an Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) which uses brakes, throttle and laser sensors to help maintain a set distance between the Sedan and the car in front. In automatic versions of the G37, the software reduces driver’s workload even more allowing ICC to work from 0km/h thanks to the “Full Speed Range” feature.

Quality

Infiniti is synonymous with vehicle quality, and that’s something that doesn’t happen by accident.

On the Tochigi production line in Japan every vehicle – not just every tenth – is laser scanned to ensure that panel gaps are within prescribed limits.

During the design and development phase, new models are exhaustively tested not just at Infiniti’s Hokkaido proving ground but also at the Tochigi and Motegi test and race complexes in Japan. Infiniti also has a vast 12.34 million square metre hot weather testing base in Arizona and uses the famed Nordschleife circuit at the Nürburgring in Germany.

Testing every Infiniti in the harshest of conditions and over thousands and thousands of kilometres ensures the durability and peace of mind that buyers can expect from the products.

Conclusion

“The Infiniti G37 has the style and performance, the quality and the equipment expected from a car in its class, but with the added bonus of exclusivity। The G37 is ready to stir things up,” says Nicolas Tschann, Product Manager, Infiniti Europe.

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Source: Infiniti

Caterham and RS Performance Build Caterham RS

Caterham is already well known for making some insanely fast vehicles, and now the company has announced an official performance arm. Teaming up with RS Performance, the company has managed to squeeze 500+ horsepower and 300 ft-lbs of torque out of a 2.4L supercharged V8 engine. Considering the Caterham RS Seven only weighs 520kgs, 0-60 mph times should take less than 3 seconds. The power to weight ratio is a Bugatti beating 1000hp per ton, however top speed is limited to 150 mph.

For those less adventures souls among us, the company will also offer a naturally aspirated version which will produce 380 hp and 190 ft-lbs of torque. Handling all this raw power is an advanced electronics system which includes traction and launch control. To help keep weight down, the Caterham RS features extensive use of carbon fiber and Kevlar seats.

A twelve week waiting period is required for production and potential owners should be prepared to handover at least £115,000.
Press Release

Caterham announces official performance arm: powerhouse V8 engine delivers 1,000 plus bhp-per-tonne

For those wanting an expression of British sportscar exclusivity, Caterham Cars has joined forces with RS Performance to offer the ultimate in bespoke Seven coachbuilding. Caterham has long been the epitome of personalised motoring with almost every version of the 12,000 Sevens on the road differing from one another. The joint venture takes that famous philosophy to an altogether new level.

RS Performance is an exclusive, niche engineering house. Born out of the passion and pedigree of its founder, Russell Savory, it will offer an ‘everything is possible’ service to Caterham customers wanting cars truly ‘built to order’.

Using the motorsport-honed Caterham chassis and benchmark technology as a cosmetic and engineering base, RS Performance, will “turn imagination into reality,” says Savory.

The heartbeat of every RS-monikered Seven will be the unique RST-V8 engine. With more than 16 years of development behind it by Russell Savory, the 40-valve, 2.4 litre engine reliably delivers an incredible 400bhp in normally aspirated mode, or over 500bhp as a supercharged varient, whilst weighing only 90kg in full running gear.

The unbridled lightness of the RST-V8 matched to the already featherweight Seven chassis delivers a power-to-weight ratio of over 1000bhp per tonne – more than double of a Bugatti Veyron. This unique partnership will be open to customers looking for the ultimate in exclusivity, and carry a price tag to reflect the tailoring, detail and hand-built craftsmanship that will go into every RS-badged Caterham.

Validation of the engineering house’s abilities comes in the form of the supercharged ‘Levante’. This is the first Seven to rollout of RS Performance’s Hertfordshire doors and which only seven more of this type will be available.

With a 12 week waiting time and costing over £115,000, this supercharged engineering masterpiece boasts a modern interpretation of the Seven’s classic looks with a sophisticated electronics package with traction and launch control to help get the phenomenal power to the floor. Weight reduction runs throughout the car, from the carbon fibre interior finished with Kevlar seats down to the hosing used on the cooling systems
The RS Performance badge will sit alongside the established, and soon to be expanded, Ford powered Caterham Seven range.

“Caterham and Russell Savory have a long history, and this seemed a natural progression of that relationship and shared engineering philosophy,” explained Ansar Ali, Caterham Cars managing director.

RS Performance RST-V8 Engine Technical Specification
Configuration 90° V8
Capacity 2.4 litre
Valves 40
Construction Aluminium main frame with dry sump
Max Power 380 bhp @10,000rpm / 500+bhp @ 10,000rpm (supercharged)
Max Torque 190 lbsft @ 8500rpm / 300 lbsft@ 8500rpm (supercharged)
Gearbox 6-speed
Overall length 45.6mm
Overall width 45.6mm
Height 48mm
Weight 90kg
Service intervals 8000 miles (minor) / 30,000 miles (major service & belt change)

RS Performance ‘Levante’ Technical Specification
Price £115,000 (dependent on specification)
Chassis Caterham SV
Engine 2.4-litre, 40-valve RST-V8 supercharged
Max Power 500+bhp @ 10,000rpm
Max Torque 300 lbsft @ 8500rpm
Supercharge boost 0.8 psi
Gearbox 6-speed sequential, paddle shift option
Transmission LSD
0-60mph (claimed) Less than 3 seconds
Top Speed 150mph (limited)
Wheelbase 2305mm
Overall length 3530mm
Overall width 1685mm
Height 1140mm
Weight From 520kgs
Suspension de Dion rear, Nitron 3-way adjustable shocks all corners
Wheels Image Billet; front 8 x 15, rear 10 x 15
Tyres Avon CR500; front 195/45-15, rear 245/40-15
Brakes Hi Spec; front 280mm vented, rear 260mm.
Exhaust system BTB 2 x 4-2-1 rear exit
Dashboard Farringdon and SPA design
Driver aids Traction Control, Launch Control
Additional Two day driver training course provided on delivery of vehicle

Source: Caterham

Infiniti G37 Coupe for Europe

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Make no mistake Infiniti is deadly serious about the European market and it is digging its heels in for the long run. Infiniti has long been a by-word for athleticism, luxury and durability in the US and differentiates itself from its Japanese compatriot Lexus, by offering a good dose more sportiness and youthfulness. Expect the European Infinitis to trade heavily on those qualities as Infiniti firmly believe BMW is their closest rival. Consumer tests in the US confirm that many Infiniti products are the equal if not superior product when compared to the Germans.

The G37 coupe was release in the US last year and builds from its G35 coupe predecessor’s sublime styling, taught handling and prodigious power and acceleration. For Europe, like in its sedan counterpart, the 3.7L VQ37VHR V6 is down in numbers from the US spec version in producing only 310ps (ps reads slightly more than a hp). There may be a number of reasons for the detune including emissions improvements, NVH tuning or driveability. Big news for the European spec G coupe is the introduction of a new 7 speed automatic transmission replacing the admittedly very good 5 speed unit. The 7 speeder will continue to use Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) allowing a downshift throttle blips. Much work has been completed on the US spec car to adapt it for European tastes. The cars chassis will have been refined to improve high speed handling due to the higher speeds experienced on some of Europe’s roads.

All versions of G37 Coupe come with Electronic Stability Program (ESP), while a Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) is included as part of the Sport package.

The interior utilises a traditional “Washi” theme to enhance Infiniti’s Japanese origins। Some of the switchgear and materials used in the interior will have been upgraded to cope with the more discerning European customer. Expect a long list of standard equipment and superb dealer service to complete this true luxury brand alternative.

Press Release

INFINITI G37 COUPÉ: WHERE SEDUCTIVE LOOKS MEET ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

Designed from the outset as a sporting thoroughbred, the Infiniti G37 Coupé offers dramatic performance in a thoroughly seductive shape. Although sharing a great deal of hardware with the G37, the Coupé is designed to appeal to a different buyer. The dynamic styling allied to its obvious performance potential will appeal to successful individuals who appreciate beautiful design and enjoy driving. They aren’t prone to following the herd… and they might not even drive a coupé currently.

“The typical buyer of a G37 Coupé will be a little younger than the four-door buyer, but no less discerning. He or she will be someone who appreciates quality but wants to make an even bolder statement,” says Jim Wright, Vice President, Infiniti Europe. “A G37 Coupé buyer might be an existing coupé driver but he is just as likely to own a sports estate or a compact SUV.”

When he does step into a G37 Coupé, he’ll find the exterior styling is matched by a refined interior. And when he starts the engine, he will find a true performance car that delivers what it promises. “The G37 Coupé takes the best attributes of the four-door and adds even more. It’s a car designed to appeal to the emotions, yet one which delivers on a practical level, too,” says Bastien Schupp, Marketing Director, Infiniti Europe.

G37 Coupé at a glance

• Stunning, uncompromised styling
• Two plus two cabin
• Rear-wheel drive driving dynamics with Four-Wheel Active Steer availability
• Potent 3.7-litre V6 engine producing over 310PS
• Six-speed manual or advanced seven-speed automatic
• Class leading passive safety features including pedestrian-friendly pop-up bonnet

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Infiniti G37 Coupe for Europe

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G37 Coupé in detail

While closely related to the new Infiniti G37, the G37 Coupé is a much more than a two-door version of the saloon. Although it shares the same 2850mm wheelbase – which ensures its rear seats are more than just occasional perches – the Coupé is more than 100mm shorter than the Sedan to give it genuine coupé proportions and does not share a single body panel.

The G37 Coupé is powered by the 3.7-litre version of VQ family of petrol engines. Drive is taken to the wheels via a slick six-speed manual or an advanced seven-speed automatic transmission. Suspension layout – double wishbones at the front and a multi-link rear – delivers sharp and agile handling allied to superb ride comfort. With an accent unashamedly focused on performance, it is vital that the G37 Coupé’s dynamic behaviour can match or better the opposition.

To ensure it can handle the higher speeds in Europe, a dedicated team of Infiniti engineers working out of Nissan’s Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) have fine tuned the suspension, steering, brakes and aerodynamics to suit the conditions. In order to favour easy trackability and secure feel, exceptional high-speed stability has been a focus point as well as braking and steering precision.

Add generous equipment levels and a range of technically advanced options such as Four-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS) and the G37 Coupé can be marked out as something special, a genuine alternative to the establishment.