Car And Bike Insurance Groups

by: Rob Laird - RPL Driving

When getting prices for insurance, one of the things the company looks at the the vehicle you're insuring.

This is a sliding scale from 1 to 20, with a car like a 998cc Vauxhall Corsa at the lowest group; insurance group 1, a mini cooper convertible higher at group 9, and pretty much every Ferrari up the top at group 20. Bikes have a very similar system.

There are several things need to be taken into consideration when assigning a group:




1. The price of parts, as if there is an accident, it will affect how much the company needs to pay out to repair your vehicle. Also if a vehicle is difficult to work on, making repair times longer, this will also tend to increase the group.

2. The security fitted to the vehicle. More security, less likely to be stolen, less likely for the insurance to need to be used, so therefore a lower group.

3. The cost, quite simply because if the car is written off, and it needs to be replaced, the higher costing vehicle, will have a higher group.

4. Look at a 1 litre car to a 3 litre, obviously the larger engined car would have a more expensive group. Overall acceleration and top speed are also taken into account.

5. Desirability, 2 very similar cars, might have 2 completely different groups if one of them has a history of being more attractive to car thieves.

So before you jump in and buy your car, do some research on the costs of insuring it first, and look at similar cars that might save you hundreds of pounds.

Infiniti JX Concept

The Infiniti JX Concept, a preview of an innovative new 7-passenger/3-row luxury crossover that joins the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012, made its world debut at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The Infiniti JX Concept was unveiled by Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura prior to its display throughout the weekend's activities at the famed Lodge at Pebble Beach.
"The JX Concept advances the Infiniti design language, sharing design cues of the Infiniti Essence concept, yet interprets those elements in ways suitable to the needs of a family luxury crossover," said Nakamura. "From the dramatic front grille and headlight design to the crescent-cut D-pillar and greenhouse shape, the Infiniti JX Concept shines as a fresh, bold alternative to the many flavors of vanilla currently dominating the three-row luxury crossover segment."



Beyond its stunning exterior, the new Infiniti JX Concept is designed to excel in three areas where luxury crossover buyers put an emphasis - interior flexibility and roominess, safety, and innovative hospitality features.
"The three-row luxury crossover segment is one of the fastest growing among all luxury vehicle segments, providing a huge opportunity for Infiniti," explained Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. "And like every segment Infiniti enters, we plan to shake up the status quo - with a vehicle that is guaranteed to instantly become the new benchmark for style, hospitality, roominess, advanced telematics and safety technologies."
In the interior, for example, the production Infiniti JX will offer what is expected to be class-leading roominess, along with a 2nd row seat design that tilts and slides forward providing exceptionally easy 3rd row access.



"With the JX, you will even be able to leave a child seat latched to the 2nd row while getting in or out of the 3rd row - just one example of the vehicle's inspired flexibility and versatility," added Poore. "The 3rd row isn't the typical penalty box either, with adult-sized room for all occupants and five-and-a-half inches of 2nd row forward-back adjustability."
The Infiniti JX continues Infiniti's tradition of developing world's first technologies, offering the currently available Blind Spot Intervention and adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention. With this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing objects behind the vehicle and, if necessary, the system will automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision.
The Infiniti JX will also offer technologies designed to make owners lives a bit easier and more efficient, such as a 14-speaker Bose® Studio Surround® sound system with Waveguide bass technology and an advanced Infiniti Connection Telematics system that can automatically synch the owner's calendar and provide navigation guidance to appointments. It will also feature the Infiniti Personal Assistant, Infiniti's new personal concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants. The Infiniti Personal Assistant benefit is now offered free-of-charge with every 2012 Infiniti vehicle purchase.
And, in keeping with Infiniti's "Inspired Performance," the Infiniti JX will offer a balance of driving exhilaration and fuel efficiency through a combination of a powerful V6 engine and all-wheel or front-wheel drive. The Infiniti JX will also be the first Infiniti to utilize a sport-tuned, but fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission. The CVT will mimic a step transmission when the Sport mode of the Infiniti drive selector is engaged. Additional information regarding the drivetrain and other systems will be provided at the debut of the production version of the all-new Infiniti JX at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2011.



"As a premium crossover with a real 3rd row - along with Infiniti levels of hospitality and driving pleasure, the new JX is another breakthrough design from the brand that has been breaking new ground for more than 20 years," Nakamura added. "We will continue to challenge conventional thinking."

Infiniti FX35 2012

Infiniti FX35 2012
The 2012 Infiniti FX35 performance crossover comes with a 3.5 liter V6 featuring 303 horsepower due to an all aluminum block and heads. The Infiniti FX35 includes an automatic 7 speed transmission and electronically controlled throttle system tuned specifically to the FX35’s characteristics. The engine achieves a better mileage rating for both short and long distance drives. Infiniti has released a new exterior color option (Graphite Shadow), and offers consumers a variety of new safety technologies based on each of the four models. The four different models include the FX50 AWD with 5.0-liter V8, FX35 AWD with 3.5-liter V6, FX35 RWD with 3.5-liter V6, and FX Limited Edition with 3.5-liter V6. The Limited Edition model comes with Intelligent All Wheel Drive, Continuous Damping Control, Rear Active Steer, and Intelligent Brake Assist. Limited Editions also include 21 inch wheels with all around disk brakes. Infiniti gives the FX35 consumer a variety of special equipment packages developed for each individual taste.

[Source: Infiniti]















Infiniti FX35 2012
2012 Infiniti FX Receives Seductive Revised Front End Styling; All-New Limited Edition With Exclusive Features and Exterior Color Added to FX35

The Infiniti FX, Infiniti’s iconic performance crossover, enters the 2012 model year with big news – a revised front grille and front fascia design, revised meter illumination, standard heated front seats on all models and the addition of the new Limited Edition FX35 AWD model.

Based upon the FX35 All-Wheel Drive model, the Limited Edition features an available exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke aluminum-alloy graphite finish wheels with P265/45R21 V-rated all-season tires, dark tinted headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) and auto-leveling, and dark tinted side air vents and lower door trim. Other Limited Edition features include aluminum roof rails and roof rail crossbars with graphite finish, aluminum pedals, graphite floor mats with unique blue piping, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View® Monitor (AVM) and much more.

Other 2012 enhancements include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow (replaces Platinum Graphite), a new 20-inch wheel design for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, and a shift of the quilted leather climate-controlled front seats to the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package from the Premium Package.

One of those rare vehicles that is equally intriguing whether in motion or standing still, the Infiniti FX is again available with a choice of a 390-horsepower 5.0-liter 32-valve DOHC V8 engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) or with a 303-horsepower 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine. Both engines are paired with a standard 7-speed automatic transmission featuring Adaptive Shift Control (ASC).

The FX is also offered with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (standard FX35 Limited Edition and FX50), double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension and large 4-wheel disc brakes, along with available Continuous Damping Control (CDC®), Rear Active Steer, Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) and 21-inch lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels.

As a showcase of Infiniti’s groundbreaking technology capabilities, the FX offers available Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), and the Around View® Monitor (AVM) – which provides a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle, helping to maneuver it in tight spots.

The 2012 FX is offered in four models: FX50 AWD with 5.0-liter V8, FX35 AWD with 3.5-liter V6, FX35 RWD with 3.5-liter V6, and FX Limited Edition with 3.5-liter V6. Also offered is a range of special equipment packages: Premium Package, Deluxe Touring Package, Technology Package and Sport Package.

A Revised Front End Appearance
Since the introduction of the original FX design in 2003, FX’s aggressive styling has served notice of its performance underpinnings with its long hood, stretched wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs. The design’s distinctive side air vents, located behind the front wheels, allow air to flow through the engine compartment and out the side of the vehicle, reducing front end lift. For 2012, FX receives a bold new front grille and fascia design with an influence from the stunning Infiniti Essence Concept.

“The changes to the FX front end styling for 2012 further distinguish it from those vehicles that have chased after its design leadership for the past eight years,” said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. “FX’s performance has always kept it ahead of the pack and once again its design does so too.

FX’s pronounced performance appearance also features fog lamps and iconic High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights. The aggressive silhouette is highlighted by a strong front-to-rear shoulder line, tight greenhouse, kicked-back roofline and integrated rear spoiler.

The large LED taillights extend beyond the body, helping create aerodynamic downforce, while large dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers cap the action-ready appearance.

The 2012 Infiniti FX is offered in eight exterior colors: Graphite Shadow (new for 2012), Malbec Black, Umbria Twilight, Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian, Midnight Mocha, Moonlight White and exclusive Iridium Blue (FX35 Limited Edition only).

Under FX’s polished, assertive styling is an equally advanced body structure, offering room for five adults and the capacity to hold four full-size golf bags. FX utilizes the rigid FM (for Front Midship) platform architecture, with a balanced front-to-rear weight distribution to help provide exceptional handling performance. Efforts were taken to reduce weight, including the use of aluminum doors and hood, and enhance body strength.

The Infiniti FX’s interior includes a command center-style cockpit designed to enhance the driving experience. The leather-appointed front seats offer 10-way driver’s side/8-way passenger side power adjustments and are available with a heating and cooling function for maximum comfort in any season. Heated front seats are now standard on all FX models. The available driver’s sport seat adds power-adjustable side bolsters and a manual thigh extension. The high-tech interior design includes an Infiniti signature double-wave instrument panel and Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges. For 2012, meter illumination adds a more pronounced white appearance.

Also available is an automatic driving position system, which moves the steering wheel and outside mirrors adaptively into the correct position when the seat is adjusted – allowing the driver to change the seat position and keep the same mirror viewpoint and relationship between the steering column and driver’s shoulder position. The FX interior’s array of comfort and convenience equipment ranges from a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob to dual front and rear cupholders, four 12-volt power outlets, power windows with front one-touch auto-up/down function, power door locks and available tonneau cover and aluminum pedal accents.

Hospitality features include the Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition and Sequential Welcome Lighting Illuminated Entry system that starts with turning on the outside mirror courtesy lights as the driver approaches the FX and continues to light key areas as driver and passengers settle into the interior. Three available interior colors are offered: Wheat, Graphite and Java.

Standard on FX50 is the Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with auto-recirculation, Grape Polyphenol and Plasmacluster™ air purifier that reduces interior airborne contaminants. The system includes a “Clean Mode,” which uses ionization to reduce unwanted airborne particles. An “Ion Mode” creates a high concentration of negative ions to impart a freshness and crispness to the air, similar to what people experience after a thunderstorm or near a waterfall. This system utilizes a filter using fiber impregnated with natural grape seed polyphenol, which has the ability to reduce allergens that conventional filters cannot remove due to their incredibly small size (0.3 to 0.5 microns).

The FX comes equipped with an advanced Bose® Premium Audio system, acoustically engineered to optimize sound within the FX’s interior. It features 11-speakers, an AM/FM/CD player and USB connection port for iPod® Interface and other compatible devices. Also standard are XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), diversity antenna and steering wheel-mounted remote audio controls.

The advanced Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System – standard on FX50, available on FX35 – features XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ with Real-Time Weather Information (requires active XM® subscription, sold separately), Zagat Survey® restaurant guide and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, along with an Infiniti Voice Recognition system for navigation and audio systems.

Two Advanced Engines
The Infiniti FX50 features a standard 5.0-liter V8 engine design rated at 390 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It utilizes Infiniti’s Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) valve control technology, which continuously adjusts valve timing and lift amounts, enabling higher fuel efficiency with higher torque and improved emissions over conventional variable valve designs.

The VVEL intake camshafts, which feature continuously variable lift control teamed with a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), allow for a 6,800 rpm redline.

Also offered is an advanced 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6, available on FX35 models. The V6 engine features an aluminum block and heads and electronically controlled throttle system and has been tuned specifically for use in the FX35. The engine is rated at 303-horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

The advanced V6 engine design also features a symmetric twin air intake system that reduces airflow resistance, Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), a silent timing chain for quiet operation, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, and Teflon-coated lightweight pistons, a dual exhaust system with equal length exhaust manifolds and low muffler exhaust pressure to help improve engine breathing.

Only one transmission is offered on the 2012 FX – a refined 7-speed transmission that offers both a wide ratio of coverage and a wide lock-up area, as well as a manual shift mode, Downshift Rev Matching and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). The standard ASC system adapts the transmission’s shift timing depending on driving style. Solid magnesium paddle shifters are available with the FX50 Sport Package, while Infiniti’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models.

FX50 AWD and FX35 AWD models are equipped with Infiniti’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, which uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically redistributes torque to the wheels (0:100 up to 50:50 front to rear) according to road and driving conditions.

FX offers independent suspension at all four corners, with a double-wishbone suspension design in front and a multi-link design in the rear. Large diameter stabilizer bars are utilized at both ends. The suspension system also incorporates special Dual Flow Path™ shock absorber technology with rebound springs for responsive yet comfortable ride and firm, tight handling.

An available Continuous Damping Control (CDC®) suspension system offers special electronically controlled shock absorbers. Using input from a variety of sensors, the system continuously alters the damping of the shocks to provide optimal ride and handling. A driver-selectable switch with two settings, “Auto” and “Sport,” allows the driver to choose the desired damping mode.

The FX50 is also available with an advanced Rear Active Steer system, which uses precise, electronic motor-driven control to turn the rear wheels up to one degree, helping generate a nimble steering response at low speeds and enhance handling feel at high speeds. Braking is provided by 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). The FX50 includes 4-piston front/2-piston rear opposed-piston brake calipers and large brake rotors (14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear).

FX35 models come standard with 18-inch split-5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels mounted with P265/60R18 V-rated all-season tires. FX50 models feature six-spoke 21-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P265/45R21 V-rated all-season tires. Newly designed five-spoke 20-inch wheels are offered as part of the Deluxe Touring Package on the FX35, while a 10-spoke 21-inch wheel design is available on FX35 AWD Limited Edition.

Advanced Technology and Safety Systems
The 2012 FX makes available an array of advanced technology systems. The FX’s available advanced Around View® Monitor utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side and rear of the FX – to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle, helping to maneuver it in tight spots. The system uses advanced image processing to combine the images from the four cameras and provide a unique “Birds-Eye View” of the vehicle’s surroundings.

The available Distance Control Assist (DCA) system helps reduce the burden of driving by helping the driver maintain a distance to the vehicle ahead in traffic conditions that require frequent braking. Whereas Intelligent Brake Assist is on by default, Distance Control Assist is available at the touch of a button. DCA utilizes the accelerator pedal to provide feedback to the driver.

If the distance falls below a certain threshold when approaching the preceding vehicle from behind, when the driver releases the accelerator pedal the vehicle will automatically apply the brakes to help maintain distance to the preceding vehicle. If the driver is on the throttle and the system determines that braking may be necessary, DCA will signal to the driver that the throttle should be released by “pushing back” via the accelerator pedal. Initially a subtle push can be felt by the driver as a gentle reminder to maintain a more appropriate distance. If the driver continues closing in on the vehicle ahead, a more insistent double impulse from the pedal plus an audible signal will urge the driver to release the throttle. Upon release of the throttle, DCA will automatically engage the brakes. If necessary, the driver can override the system at any time by depressing the accelerator pedal.

The available Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range) brings the benefit of cruise control to another level, helping to maintain a preset distance to the vehicle ahead whether in heavy traffic or on open freeways within a speed range of 0 and 90 mph. ICC can be a stress reliever particularly when driving in congested freeway traffic. The ICC system operates across a wide speed range and helps the driver manage speed and distance down to a complete stop. This allows the FX to flow with traffic even at “crawling” speeds and then resume the desired cruising speed once the road opens up again.

The available Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) system with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) uses the laser sensor unit from the Intelligent Cruise Control’s (ICC) system and continuously monitors and analyzes closing speeds to a vehicle ahead. IBA will warn the driver if it determines a frontal collision is imminent. If the driver does not respond to the warning and the collision can no longer be avoided, IBA will automatically engage the brakes to help reduce the impact speed and thus help mitigate the consequences of the accident.

Also available on all 2012 FX models is the advanced Infiniti Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system, which takes Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system one step further.

If the system senses that the vehicle has drifted toward the edge of its lane, LDP utilizes the FX’s Vehicle Dynamic Control system to gently apply the brakes on the wheels on the opposite side, assisting the driver in returning the vehicle back towards the center of the current lane.

Safety features found on every 2012 FX include a seat belt reminder system; standard Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS); dual-stage front supplemental air bags with occupant classification and seat belt sensors; seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags; and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for enhanced outboard seat occupant head protection.

Also standard are 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, ALR/ELR seat belts in all passenger seating positions (driver’s side ELR only), adjustable upper anchors, front seat Active Head Restraints, and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure display is also standard.

FX also includes available Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts. Utilizing patented technology (licensed to other automakers), the system automatically retracts some seat belt webbing if the system detects emergency braking or an emergency handling situation. In addition, the FX front seat belts also have a function that automatically self-adjusts the seat belt when buckled to help provide a comfortable and relaxed fit.

Four Well-Equipped Models
The 2012 FX is offered in three engine/drive configurations: the V8-powered FX50 AWD, the V6-powered FX35 AWD and FX35 RWD, plus the new FX35 Limited Edition model. Each comes equipped with exceptional levels of standard equipment.

Four option packages are offered in 2012, offering an extended range of features and technology over the well-equipped standard equipment. The FX35 is available with the Premium Package (equipment standard on FX50), with climate-controlled front seats, dual-occupant memory system, entry/exit assist system for driver’s seat and steering wheel, aluminum roof rails, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, 8-inch color touch-screen display, Around View® Monitor with Front and Rear Sonar System, and more.

The FX35’s Deluxe Touring Package includes 20-inch wheels and tires, aluminum pedal accents, Maple interior accents, quilted leather-appointed seating and tonneau cover. The Sport Package (FX50 only) features sport-style front seats, solid magnesium paddle shifters, dark-tinted side air vents and lower door trim, Continuous Damping Control (CDC®) and Rear Active Steer.

The Technology Package (FX50 and FX35) includes Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range), Distance Control Assist, Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts, rain-sensing windshield wipers and Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights.

2011 Infiniti Etherea Concept

Making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 Motor Etherea reinvents the concept of compact Infiniti luxury car for a new generation of demanding younger buyers, while offering a vision of future Infiniti European range in Congress different challenges reached the mark in the compact segment for the first time.




"Ether is a new kind of luxury," said Toru Saito, Corporate Vice President and Head of Global Business Unit Infiniti.




"It's for young buyers who do not want a smaller version of a luxury car is usually conservative and traditional. This is for people who want a car that defines who they are, not who their parents were."

Encapsulates all the Infiniti stand - including the power without compromise hybrid and maximum driving pleasure - drive 4.4 long, Etherea Infiniti Concept offers a bold new approach for the premium compact segment. Its dynamic nature and very sculptural, dense single-volume form gives a shape unlike anything currently in the classroom.




"Etherea is completely different from today's compact luxury car," said senior vice president of design, Shiro Nakamura. "It is appropriate for a new generation of drivers who are considered different.




"As an exploration of what the future entry-level Infiniti, as is the concept Infiniti Etherea great importance and a breakthrough in this Infiniti thinks itself."

Bancon, general manager of exploration and advanced products, said: "We believe the market - and buyers of compact cars - is ready for a car like this, especially in Europe as a means to isolate his own progressive, confident same. and a little unusual, Etherea Infiniti concept fits well with what is Infiniti. "

2011 Infiniti EX30d

Infiniti EX30d to reducing CO2 V6 diesel, the first-in-class security technology and a new chapter in European targets Japan's youngest-performance luxury car manufacturer. What changes is the EX coupe crossover, dynamic style, the exceptional standard equipment - and use to seduce the most demanding sports owners



EX dynamically seems to come with a compact SUV. Its advanced body reliving the way they drive.



Complete standard equipment to calibrate the value and share of Infiniti Experience a re-imagined all aspects of life in a high quality of the most demanding car owners.



Now, acclaimed by the addition of a new diesel engine, which boasts more torque or attraction, than any current competitor, the EX redefines what is desirable is a compact SUV class.




Hyundai EX30d join EX37 V6 petrol model in the Hyundai centers throughout Europe from summer 2010 (depending on country). Infiniti SUV inspired sports coupe is the second to be powered by diesel. It inherits the exact same 3.0-liter V6 with piezo injection, which was available for his older brother, the FX30d since June 2010. In the form used in the EX and FX crossovers, the Alliance V9X V6 diesel unit of a widely Infiniti. It was developed by Infiniti to offer more mileage and carbon emissions lower than the V6 petrol brand while maintaining high performance and refinement key to the ethics of luxury Hyundai.

2012 Infiniti FX35

The Infiniti FX, Infiniti crossover performances iconic 2012 model year begins with the big news - a revised grille and front fascia design, light meters revised standard heated front seats on all models and the incorporation of New Infiniti FX35 AWD Limited Edition model.





Based on the Infiniti FX35 AWD model, the Limited Edition is a free Blue Iridium exclusive exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke aluminum alloy with graphite finish P265/45R21 V-rated all-season tires, dark tinted headlamps with Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), self-leveling, and stained dark side vents and lower door trim. Other features include limited edition aluminum roof rails and roof rails crossbar with graphite finish, aluminum pedals, floor mats with unique graphite tube Blue Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, around View ® Monitor (AVM) and much more.




Other improvements include a new exterior color in 2012, Shadow Graphite (Graphite replaces Platinum), a new design 20-inch wheels for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, and a shift of quilted leather front seats climate controlled with FX35 Touring Deluxe Package from Premium.




One of the few vehicles that are equally fascinating is stationary or moving, the Infiniti FX is again available in the range of 390 hp 5.0-liter 32-valve DOHC V8 with VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) or 303 horses power, 3, 5 liter 24-valve DOHC V6. Both engines are paired with standard 7-speed adaptive automatic transmission (ASC).

FX is also provided to the domain of intelligent all-wheel drive (standard on Limited Edition FX35 and FX50), wishbone front / multi-link rear suspension and large 4-disc brakes and available Continuous Damping Control (CDC ®), Rear Active Steer, Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) and 21-inch lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels.




As a showcase of innovative technology capabilities of Infiniti, the FX offers Intelligent Brake Assist available (IBA), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed ​​Range), Lane Departure Warning (LDW ) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) and the Around View Monitor ® (AVM) - which provides a 360 ° view virtual objects around the vehicle, helping to maneuver in tight spaces.

The 2012 FX is available in four models: FX50 AWD with 5.0-liter V8, Infiniti FX35 AWD with 3.5-liter V6 FX35 RWD with 3.5-liter V6 engine, and FX Limited Edition, 3.5 liter V6. Also available is a range of special equipment packages: Premium Package, Deluxe Touring Package, Technology Package and Sport Package.

Infiniti JX Concept Pictures Spec and Review

Infiniti JX Concept Pictures Spec and Review
Infiniti released teaser images of its all-new luxury crossover, the Infiniti JX Concept. The 7-passenger SUV JX Concept will go on sale in Spring 2012. The official production version of the Infiniti JX 2013 will be on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show this November. Check out the teaser shots after the jump.

[Source: Infiniti]












INFINITI RELEASES FIRST IMAGE OF INFINITI JX CONCEPT
Automaker Provides the First Look at Upcoming Seven-Passenger Luxury Crossover and Launches “Power of 7” Campaign

Infiniti released an image of the Infiniti JX Concept today, giving the first official glimpse at a new luxury crossover that will join the Infiniti line next Spring. Reinforcing the vehicle’s seven-passenger seating, the photo was launched at exactly 7:07 am.

Infiniti also announced the launch of the “Power of 7”, an innovative social media campaign designed to initiate conversation about the JX Concept in advance of its global reveal at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 18.

“Families don’t have many luxury vehicle options today. The new Infiniti JX will be the 7-passenger antidote to the ho-hum luxury crossovers that are out there right now,” said Ben Poore, vice president of Infiniti Americas.

Infiniti will officially debut the production version of the 2013 Infiniti JX, which goes on sale in the Spring of 2012, at the Los Angeles Auto Show this November.

– North American Debut of IPL G Convertible Concept and Red Bull Racing Formula One Car Set for New York International Auto Show –

Infiniti has announced an all-new three-row luxury crossover designated the Infiniti JX that will go on sale at its retailers in spring 2012 as a 2013 model.

An exterior sketch of the Infiniti JX suggests a vehicle that pushes the boundaries of what a luxury crossover can be – with signature styling cues of the brand, such as dynamic and elegant line treatments inspired by nature. The brand styling theme continues with a “crescent cut” greenhouse design influenced by the Infiniti Essence concept car. More details will be provided when the Infiniti JX concept is shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this August. The production version will make its global debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

“The all-new Infiniti JX crossover will allow us to continue to expand the Infiniti brand’s presence in the Americas,” said Carlos Tavares, chairman, Nissan Americas. “In 2010, Infiniti was one of the fastest-growing luxury brands in the United States, and this year we will expand our presence further to Mexico and Panama, followed by Chile in the first half of 2012.”

“There aren’t a lot of choices for luxury families today. The all-new Infiniti JX is the 7-passenger antidote to the ho-hum luxury crossovers that are out there right now,” added Ben Poore, vice president of Infiniti Americas. “The Infiniti JX will have a stunning interior, while offering exceptional seating flexibility, easy access to the roomy third row, plus the latest in-vehicle technology – including next-generation telematics. A fitting addition to our line, it will challenge the status quo in its class.”

In addition to the JX announcement, Infiniti said that the New York International Auto Show will be the regional debut of its IPL G Convertible Concept and Infiniti-sponsored Red Bull Racing Formula One car.

The IPL G Convertible Concept, which made its world debut at the Paris Auto Show last fall, features unique aerodynamic styling, the performance of an IPL-tuned V6, exhaust and system, 19-inch IPL aluminum wheels, three-piece retractable hardtop and a dramatic red leather-appointed interior set against a Malbec Black exterior. The IPL G Convertible Concept will be displayed near the limited production IPL G Coupe, which is available now at Infiniti retailers in the United States and Canada.

The competition-tested Red Bull Racing Formula One racer will also be on display, representing Infiniti’s marketing and technical collaboration agreement with the current Formula One World Champions. As part of the partnership, Infiniti has branding presence on the racing car, drivers clothing and related team uniforms and equipment.

The 2011 New York International Auto Show runs April 22 through May 1 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.

To Infiniti and Beyond...

Yeah - I may have used that tag line before. But these guys aren't above recycling, so why can't I be? The ironically named Japanese maker of bodykits knowns of DAMD, make the kits you see here. Turn your Infini G35 / Nissan Skyline / Nissan 350Z / Nissan Fairlady into a convincing Aston Martin ripoff from the headlights forward! Possibly a link to James Bond in here, as he's also molested many fair ladies.

To Infiniti and Beyond

This is one Pathfinder whose path should never have been found.

Fug with the Animals

The new-for-2002 Nissan Murano and Infiniti FX were - and still are in my eyes - high points in SUV design. Sleek and angular, the both look better than their replacements.


2002 - Sleek


2009 - Shriek


While still mostly attractive, both SUVs have grown more curvy and organic, in the process lost the creased wedginess that made them unique.


2002 - Understated


2009 - Overwrought


The largest offense however, are front and centre. The clean, simple face of the Murano has become an overwrought, Gigeresque metallic spider/lamprey hybrid.



Meanwhile the sculpted face of the Infiniti has gained a grimace and beady headlights that Infiniti calls the look of a "Bionic Cheetah". Remind me more of an angry warthog without it's tusks...


Bionic Cheetah, or Angry Warthog?

Continental Kit

You can only see a portion of the front, but this appears to be one of those Japanese Neoclassic cars. Possibly of the home-made variety. Gets extra fug points for the fender fenders and cow hide interior.

Attack of the Clones: Hyundai Genesis

Hyundai's first foray into the realm of near-luxury has been a relative success, achieving accolades and sales. But it hasn't exactly done so with a daring new design. Like the last generation Sonata, it's more of an attractive conglomerate than anything original. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing.



I mean, what's the fault in making your car look kinda like the Lexus LS - the Genesis's "I can make a world class luxury car too" spiritual predecessor - but actually looks better? I suppose the similarity falls mostly in the appearance of the headlights and the shape of the grille.



Had the Genesis come over with it's Korean spec grille consisting of narrow, horizontal chrome bars the look would be even more similar. Speaking of that grille - it's one of the Genesis's worst features. Sure it's unique, but it doesn't look very classy. More like a chrome interpretation of a Klingon forehead. Or maybe the guided ribcage of some poor animal.


The rear end and greenhouse look in my eyes like a Japanese take on the BMW 5-Series. When looking at the rear ends of the LS, 5-Series and Infiniti M, you can see slight resemblances to all of them. Which might say more to the slightly bland appearances of all modern cars than it Hyundai's lack of originality.

Infiniti QX56

Freshly leaked onto the internet, the 2011 Infiniti QX56 replaces the last QX's blocky, slightly boring look with this new hideously swoopy version. Sadly, in the process it removes unique and interesting details, like the C-pillar rear door handles and the gentle arch to the tops of the rear doors, and replaces them with a pretty generic midsection. Up front the previous slab-like headlights and grille have been replaced with units looking like these ripped from a M45. Not exactly elegant, as the bulging hood above gives the truck a slightly neanderthal look. And those fender vents looks suspiciously like those you can buy in bulk at Wal-Mart.