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Infiniti decided to give us an early Christmas present by revealing a couple of vehicles that will be debuting at the Detroit Auto Show next month. Sadly, neither vehicle was the upcoming Q60 coupe. They are the refreshed versions of the Q50 and QX60. We'll begin with the 2016 Q50 since it has a fair amount of major changes. First is a new engine lineup. The 3.7L V6 that has been with the Q50 since launch is kicked out and three new engines take its place. The base will be a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder from Mercedes-Benz. This engine found in the CLA and GLA250 produces 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Next is a turbocharged 3.0L V6 in two states of tune; a 300 horsepower version and a 400 horsepower version. The Q50 Hybrid will soldier into 2016. All engines will come paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Another major change for the Q50 is a revised version of Infiniti's Direct Adaptive Steer system. Infiniti says enginners "optimized the control logic to improve feedback from the road". In other words, Infiniti hopes this system will begin to feel like a mechanical system. Next is the 2016 Infiniti QX60 crossover which gets minor changes. Outside are new headlights, reshaped grille, and a new rear bumper. Mechanical changes include new shocks and springs to improve the ride. Interestingly, the QX60 Hybrid will continue on for 2016. Earlier in the year, we had reported that Nissan had killed off both the Pathfinder Hybrid and Infiniti QX60 Hybrid. It seems we were only half-right on that report. The QX60 Hybrid uses a 2.5L inline-four paired with an electric motor to produce a total output of 250 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. The 3.5L V6 with 265 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque continues on into 2016. Source: Infiniti Press Release is on Page 2 2016 Infiniti Q50 sports sedan: New engines and chassis technologies deliver empowering performance and a more rewarding driving experience 2016 Q50 adds trio of new powerful and efficient turbocharged engines, including a 400-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 Next-generation Direct Adaptive Steering™ (DAS) leads technology enhancements New Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS) offers engaging ride and handing options New 400-horsepower Q50 Red Sport 400 heads line of five models in North America NASHVILLE – The new 2016 Infiniti Q50 sports sedan is being launched with a number of performance and dynamic upgrades that deliver a more empowering and rewarding drive experience. The comprehensive updates include a trio of all-new advanced turbocharged engines, along with next-generation ride and handling technologies. The Q50 – Infiniti's top-selling model in North America – was developed from the outset to showcase Infiniti's daring design, dynamic performance and class-leading technologies within the sports sedan segment. Now in its third year, Q50 global sales between January and October 2015 reached almost 50,000 models – representing a 65 percent increase compared to the same period in 2014. Four advanced powertrain options are offered with the 2016 Infiniti Q50, including an all-new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine with direct injection. This new "VR30" engine is available in two states of tune: 400 horsepower or 300 horsepower – both developed to provide an ideal mix of drivability, efficiency and performance. Also available on the Q50 is a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 208 horsepower, and a 360-horsepower hybrid powertrain, which combines a 3.5-liter V6 and a compact laminated lithium-ion battery with an innovative one-motor, two-clutch control. Also making its debut on the 2016 Infiniti Q50 is the Infiniti's industry leading Direct Adaptive Steering, comprehensively modified from the groundbreaking first-generation system. Infiniti has enhanced the Direct Adaptive Steering after gathering customer feedback from around the world and completing 625,000 miles of real-world testing. The standard steering mode now offers advanced levels of steering feel and feedback – more akin to that of a conventional steering system. In addition, the upgraded system offers even more options to personalize and tailor the steering system's levels of response and feel to suit the driver's preferences. The new Q50 also features Infiniti's Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS) for the first time, which gives the new Q50 sports sedan an optimal blend of ride comfort and class-leading response and agility. For drivers looking for a blend of dynamic settings tailored to their own particular requirements and tastes, the Q50's Drive Mode Selector (DMS) can be augmented with "Personal" mode, which permits a tailored mix of engine, suspension and steering characteristics. "The new Infiniti Q50 takes the core elements that have driven its global appeal to date, and now we have made it even better by offering a number of new and stand-out technologies. With the upgraded Q50, we are furthering Infiniti's position on innovation." Francois Bancon, Infiniti Vice President Product Strategy Infiniti's most advanced V6 leads the refreshed engine line up The all-new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, from the new and exclusive "VR-series" powertrain family, has been developed to deliver optimal power and torque, alongside greater fuel efficiency. The high-output version of the power unit delivers 400 horsepower (298 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 350 lb-ft (475 Nm) maximum torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm. The standard output version produces 300 horsepower (224 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm (295) torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm. These outputs have been achieved while ensuring an expected improvement in fuel efficiency of up to 6.7 percent, representing a high power-to-efficiency ratio for the 400 horsepower power unit. This power-to-efficiency performance was made possible thanks to a combination of newly developed powertrain features. An advanced new twin-turbo system contributes to the smooth and immediate power delivery while promoting gains in efficiency. The combination of a new turbine speed sensor and an optimized turbine blade design realize greater performance with more immediate response. The turbine speed sensor allows a 10 percent increase in turbine speeds, enabling the turbocharger to revolve at up to 220,000 rpm. With greater capacity for faster revolutions, the twin turbochargers enable the engine to deliver greater power and torque. Advanced valve timing control incorporating a new electric motor mounted to the valve timing system delivers quicker reactions to driver inputs. Along with improved response, more immediate valve timing also helps the engine operate more efficiently, precisely controlling fuel and air quantities entering the combustion chamber. A new high-pressure direct injection gasoline (DIG) system, introduced for the first time, allows for precise control of fuel injection into the combustion chamber depending on throttle position and current engine speed. DIG contributes significantly to making the new engine the cleanest and most efficient V6 that Infiniti has ever offered. 2.0-liter turbo and hybrid powertrains blend performance and efficiency Complementing the new 3.0-liter V6 is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged unit, producing 208 horsepower at 5,500 rpm with peak torque of 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) available from 1,500 rpm. This 1,991 cc unit has been engineered to achieve the same goals as the 3.0-liter V6 unit, blending response and performance with efficiency. Direct injection and a high-efficiency compact turbocharger combine to achieve high levels of torque from low engine speeds for an enhanced driving experience. The high-pressure direct injection system with 200 bar piezoelectric injectors, multi-spark ignition and lean-burn combustion technologies also contributes significantly to efficiency. This is complemented by a variable camshaft design on the intake side, which enables a switchover from a standard cam for higher loads and engine speeds where increased power is required, to a "small" cam for partial engine loads. In addition, to minimize friction losses on the small cam a maximum valve lift of 3.8 mm has been specified. The main advantage is a reduction of charge exchange losses and a nearly throttle-free operation in a relatively broad range of scenarios for exceptional efficiency. A lightweight aluminum block and cylinder head with chain-driven dual-overhead camshafts, die-cast aluminum cylinder crankcase and optimized crank assembly promote further weight savings, reduce friction and improve efficiency. For the first time, the Q50 will offer an idle stop-start system (ISS) in combination with a 2.0- liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine. The Q50's advanced hybrid powertrain remains unchanged, featuring the Direct Response Hybrid® system with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control. It combines a 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy V6 and a compact laminated lithium-ion battery with an innovative one-motor, two-clutch control. The system's V6 is rated at 302 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the advanced 50 kW electric motor is rated at 67 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system net power is 360 horsepower, providing strong acceleration and lean fuel economy. The hybrid powertrain is designed to put performance first, while bringing significant benefits for fuel efficiency. It takes full advantage of the electric motor's instant torque for exceptional acceleration and, in combination with the 3.5-liter V6, provides an energetic feel under all driving conditions. Smooth shifts from seven-speed automatic transmission All 2016 Q50 powertrains are matched to an advanced seven-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode and steering column-mounted magnesium paddle shifters. Adaptive Shift Control enhances gear selection by using a lateral acceleration sensor to detect changes in the road, such as hills and turns. Sport mode allows the driver to select a more aggressive shift pattern with automatic up- and down-shifting at higher rpm. The combined effect is for any driver to enjoy quick, smooth shifts and gear choices that are appropriate to both the road and the desired driving style. The new Q50 can be configured by the customer with one of two driveline options – rear-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. Both are available with any of the four engines. Dynamic performance from innovative technology A range of new and innovative ride and handling technologies deliver on the promise of the Q50’s daring design and instill confidence in all driving conditions. Infiniti Q50 models equipped with the new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, or the hybrid powertrain, are available with the second-generation Infiniti Direct Adaptive Steering. The system has undergone significant re-tuning to enhance steering feel and feedback. The changes to Direct Adaptive Steering – the world’s first digital steering system – have been made following extensive consultation with existing Q50 customers around the world and over 625,000 miles of testing. For the new second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering, engineers have optimized the control logic to improve feedback from the road. They have fine-tuned parameters so that the default setting better mimics the feeling drivers are used to from conventional systems. The new system also provides more customization options, fully utilizing the potential that Direct Adaptive Steering offers, giving drivers’ flexibility to choose the level of steering assistance and feedback according to personal preferences. Direct Adaptive Steering actively adjusts the steering ratio and effort according to vehicle speed and scene. In slow-moving situations, such as city driving or parking, the system is tuned for ease of maneuverability. In order to further enhance the steering feel in sporty driving conditions, the steering effort on the second generation Direct Adaptive Steering gradually saturates with high lateral G-force and acceleration in line with the overall vehicle behavior. Direct Adaptive Steering is able to transmit the driver’s input to the wheels faster than a mechanical system while requiring fewer steering corrections and is able to make 1,000 steering adjustments per second. The new system enhances the steering feel by quickly and intelligently communicating to the driver feedback about road surface and chassis behavior. This gives the driver a secure and confident feeling at the wheel, free from unnecessary steering kickbacks or vibrations. The elimination of unwanted feedback has the further benefit of reducing driver fatigue. The expanded selection of steering modes within Direct Adaptive Steering is accessed through the Drive Mode Selector (DMS). Located via menus displayed in the center console, Drive Mode Selector allows the steering response to be selected from six available options: Personal, Standard, Snow, Eco, Sport, and – new for the 2016 Q50 model – Sport+. The Q50’s Personal steering mode allows for a high degree of fine-tuning. Drivers first select one of three core modes (Standard, Sport and Sport+) and then specify their preferred level of response (Default, Dynamic and Dynamic+). For a slower steering response and conventional feel, the driver would select a combination of Standard mode and Default response. For the highest level of assistance, the driver would choose Sport+ mode with Dynamic+ response – making best use of Direct Adaptive Steering technology. The Sport mode of the Drive Mode Selector enhances the response of Direct Adaptive Steering, elevating the steering effort required while reducing the required steering movement from lock to lock. In the new Sport+ mode, steering effort remains the same as Sport mode, but the response of the steering is further increased, with an even quicker gear ratio for an enhanced performance feel. With both the Sport and Sport+ modes the result is an even greater sense of connection and control when the car is being put through its paces. The new version of Direct Adaptive Steering works with Active Lane Control to maintain lane positioning against crosswinds and uneven road surfaces. This semi-autonomous capability is a precursor to future steering systems that will form a key building block on the way to achieving fully autonomous driving. As standard, Q50 models equipped with the new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine feature Infiniti’s Rack Electronic Power Steering. This all-new system provides a linear and in-control driving experience that can be tuned through the Drive Mode Selector. When making a steering input or returning the steering wheel following an input, traditional steering systems can create an unnatural feeling through imprecise control of the power assistance, reducing the feeling of linearity. To counter this, Infiniti’s Rack Electronic Power Steering precisely increases the steering effort required as the vehicle’s yaw rate changes, before adjusting to provide more assistance when the wheel returns towards on-center. Infiniti Q50 2.0-liter models are equipped with a speed-sensitive hydraulic electronic rack-and-pinion power steering system as standard. This increases assistance at low speeds and reduces assistance for enhanced feel and response at higher speeds. The Q50 features independent multi-link suspension and, for the 2016 model, revised suspension settings now provide an improved balance between confident handling and a comfortable ride. The front suspension is a double-wishbone design, while the revised rear suspension utilizes a multi-link design with coil springs and Dual Flow Path® shock absorbers. Extensive use of aluminum components for the suspension keeps weight down. The Q50 now benefits from revised front and rear stabilizer bars. The result is heightening resistance to unwanted adjustments in the lateral movement of the suspension, affording a flatter ride and greater agility during cornering. The revised system is also better able to maintain contact between the tires and road. All 2016 Q50 Sport models are upgraded with Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS) for the first time, which offers enhanced ride comfort with class-leading response and agility. The shift from a comfort-biased ride to enhanced dynamic response can be made when the driver places the electronically adjustable shock absorbers in either Sport or Sport+ modes (adjusted via the Drive Mode Selector), providing firmer damping control for more agile handling. While in these modes, the suspension is constantly adjust¬ing to provide ideal performance and a flat ride. In all modes, Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS) also constantly adjusts the shock absorber valve within a wide range of damping force to control body motion when cornering. It monitors body roll, pitch and bounce rate to restrain body motion for a comfortable, confident and insulated ride in all conditions, ensuring that bumps and undulat¬ing road conditions are absorbed to maintain flat body posture. Daring, expressive design The Infiniti Q50 adds a new dimension of premium style to the sports sedan segment, thanks to its sleek proportions and athletic stance. A strong first impression is created by Infiniti’s signature “double arch” grille. The grille's three-dimensional, textural quality is provided by elaborate detailing of the waved mesh pattern surface and chrome surround, while the distinctive LED headlights and daytime running lights suggest an expressive form, almost like the human eye. Rising from the double arch grille is a smooth yet commanding character line, which flows energetically through the body-side like a wave and merges with the rear, creating a highly fluid profile – a trademark Infiniti look. Infiniti Q50 models equipped with the new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo 400 hp engine are designated as the Q50 Red Sport 400 and feature unique staggered 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and 245/40R19 front/265/35R19 rear summer performance run-flat tires, as well as unique exhaust tips. These changes help to assert the car’s performance credentials and add to its aggressive, confident aura. New safety features The new Infiniti Q50 builds on the long list of safety and security technologies already found in other Infiniti models, maintaining the car’s class-leading position. The Technology Package adds Front Seat Driver/Passenger Pre-Crash Seatbelts; Blind-Spot Intervention (BSI); Lane Departure Warning (LDW); and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) with Active Lane Control. The new Driver Assistance Package includes features such as Forward Emergency Braking (EB); Blind-Spot Warning (BSW); Back Collision Intervention (BCI) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA); Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW); and Around View® Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD). Comfort and convenience features, customizable for a personal touch Infiniti InTouch™ telematics system brings the future of in-car connectivity to the Q50 interior. Unlike conventional interfaces, the Q50 has not one but two touch-capacitive color screens (LCD/VGA 8-inch upper and 7-inch lower), with intuitive hand-gesture screen operation for easy changing of settings. Along with the large dual screens, the Infiniti InTouch™ system is designed to effortlessly synchronize car and driver. Content and functions directed to the upper screen include the most frequently used applications, such as navigation maps. Other content is directed to the lower display screen. In North America, the 2016 Infiniti Q50 is offered in a range of trim levels, each in a choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive – Q20 2.0t, Q50 2.0t Premium, Q50 3.0t Premium, Q50 Hybrid Premium, Q50 Sport and Q50 Red Sport 400. New for Q50 in 2016 is the feature-rich Premium Plus Package, available on all engine options and including: auto dimming exterior mirrors; electric memory exterior mirrors; electrically adjustable steering wheel with memory and easy entry functions; Infiniti InTouch with navigation and one year of InTouch services; navigation-synchronized adaptive shift control; SiriusXM® Traffic; voice recognition; 60/40 split-fold rear seat with center armrest; electric lumbar support and position memory for the driver’s seat; heated steering wheel and heated front seats. For 3.0-liter Sport models, the Premium Plus Package also adds remote engine start. The Technology Package has been revised to now include: Auto-leveling Adaptive Front Lighting System; High Beam Assist; Intelligent Cruise Control with full speed range; Distance Control Assist; Eco pedal; Advanced Climate Control System with Plasmacluster™ and Grape Polyphenol filter; as well as a range of safety features. The new Infiniti Q50 goes on sale in selected markets later in 2016. Infiniti QX60 premium crossover offers enhanced design, dynamics, comfort and convenience for 2016 Refreshed exterior design adds to premium look and feel Chassis dynamics retuned for a more engaging, comfortable drive Interior revisions bring enhanced luxury for up to seven occupants Augmented suite of assistive and intuitive technologies NASHVILLE – Infiniti has comprehensively enhanced its versatile QX60 premium crossover for 2016, introducing a wide range of changes that improve the seven-seater’s exterior design and its driving dynamics, while showcasing new features and technologies that improve comfort, convenience and safety. Reflecting an evolution of Infiniti’s stand-out artistic design, the 2016 QX60’s revised form accentuates its powerful elegance and craftsmanship. This is a premium crossover that continues to defy segment expectations by providing flexible and accessible seating for up to seven, while at the same time delivering superior standards of comfort and luxury. The 2016 QX60’s new suspension components and settings combine to deliver superior levels of both comfort and agility, while a revised steering system delivers greater feedback for a more rewarding drive. Available in both front-wheel drive and optional Intelligent All-Wheel Drive versions, the QX60 is offered with a choice of powerful and efficient powertrains – 3.5-liter V6 gasoline or Hybrid. Whichever engine is chosen, upgraded cabin sound insulation and revised engine mounts for the 2016 model reduce the ingress of noise, vibration and harshness, enabling occupants to better appreciate the uprated cabin materials and the feature-rich audio and connectivity systems. Seven new equipment packages and a new range of exterior colors for 2016 allows customers to take a truly tailored approach in specifying the QX60 premium crossover to meet their individual needs and preferences. The personal touch is reinforced with thoughtful new assistive and intuitive technology features, such as the Infiniti Personal Assistant™, a 24-hour personal concierge service. Global sales of the QX60 during the first eleven months of 2015 reached 48,684, year-on-year, representing a growth of 24 percent. The U.S. market alone posted a 32 percent increase compared to the same period in 2014. Infiniti expects the new 2016 model to attract even more premium buyers to the brand. “The new QX60 will become an important part of Infiniti’s global growth strategy as the global premium crossover market continues to grow. The new model builds on the characteristics that have made QX60 an increasingly popular choice with premium buyers, offering enhanced design, driving dynamics and best-in-class levels of interior comfort and convenience.” Francois Bancon, Infiniti Vice President Product Strategy Refreshed exterior conveys a premium look The exterior of the QX60 reflects Infiniti’s design-led approach to product development, and a desire to craft vehicle forms which combine power and confident artistry through taut, muscular shapes and flowing lines. The look is unmistakably Infiniti and the new QX60 features familiar signature brand design cues such as the dramatic double-arch front grille, double-wave hood and crescent-cut D-pillar. At the front, the redesigned double-arch grille is flanked by standard-fit bi-xenon headlamps. There is greater use of LED lighting, including new LED daytime running lights. Complementing the revised headlamps are front fog lamps, which feature LED lighting and chrome finishers. The lighting extends to the side and rear of the vehicle, with side indicators and taillights sitting flush to body and incorporating the turn signal in red. The rear hatch has also received attention, featuring a new chrome finisher, while retaining its power lift function. Above the rear hatch a new roof-mounted and body color “shark fin” antenna has been added, working in-conjunction with the in-glass antenna. Incorporated into both front and rear bumpers are new, flush-mounted sonar sensors. Except for two additions at the center of the front bumper, these body-colored sensors no longer have a surrounding bezel, adding to the premium appearance. The 2016 QX60 is available in seven exterior colors: Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian, Hermosa Blue, Majestic White, Graphite Shadow, plus new Hagane Blue and Jade Green. The smooth and aerodynamic shape of the QX60 achieves an unchanged drag coefficient of 0.34. The new model manages airflow over, under and around the exterior to promote road holding and high-speed stability. A front underbody spoiler, integrated rear spoiler and rear tire deflectors contribute to achieving zero lift across both front and rear axles. A significant enhancement for the 2016 QX60 is the addition of acoustic glass for better insulation from high frequency noise. Constructed of three layers, the acoustic side glass minimizes the intrusion of wind noise into the cabin, while also reducing the effects of tire noise. The result is class-leading noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels at a constant speed. Retuned dynamics for a more engaging drive The focus for Infiniti’s QX60 engineers was to provide an even more assured and confidence-inspiring driving experience. This has been achieved through the introduction of new chassis technologies and revised settings for components carried over from the previous model. The independent-strut front and multi-link rear suspension feature new shock absorbers and spring units, which result in smoother ride control with a reduction in body movement when cornering. New 235/65 R18 T-rated all-season tires are standard, selected to provide improvements in grip and balance. Completing the dynamic changes, a retuned vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering system, now requiring just 2.9 turns lock-to-lock, offers the driver increased response to steering inputs and enhanced feedback. The Infiniti Drive Mode Selector (DMS) allows the driver to vary throttle response and gearshift patterns to optimize performance for the conditions and their own preferences. The driver can select from four drive modes – Standard, Sport, Eco and Snow – using a rotary dial mounted in the center console. To enhance stability and feel through the controls when cornering, the Active Trace Control system links with the QX60’s standard Vehicle Dynamic Control system (upgraded for 2016), to automatically apply the brakes in a specific pattern and then smooth engine torque characteristics while accelerating. The new QX60 is available in four models, QX60, QX60 AWD, QX60 Hybrid and QX60 Hybrid AWD. All variants provide the responsive performance and fuel efficiency increasingly demanded by premium crossover buyers. The standard 3.5-liter V6 is mated to a sport-tuned, electronically controlled continuously variable transmission with D-Step Logic that provides high levels of response and a seamless, efficient shift feel. The transmission’s logic mimics the shift pattern of a more traditional step transmission. Included is a manual shift mode, allowing the driver to manually select from the pre-set gear ratios, if preferred. The 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 265 horsepower at 6,400 rpm with peak torque of 248 lb-ft (336 Nm) available at 4,400 rpm. The engine includes a variable induction control system to improve volumetric efficiency at low and middle speed ranges, while an efficient belt layout reduces maintenance requirements and aids fuel efficiency. Revised engine mounts reduce the vibration transmitted to the cabin and controls engine movement during cornering for enhanced stability and response. The 2016 QX60 is also offered with a hybrid drivetrain, featuring a supercharged 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine and an electric motor powered by a compact Lithium-ion battery pack. The system produces a combined 250 horsepower and 243 lb-ft (329 Nm) of torque. For 2016, the engine is mounted using new electric-active controlled liquid-filled engine mounts for reduced vibration in the cabin and enhanced cornering. Premium comfort and convenience for seven occupants The QX60 utilizes a flat platform floor, which not only allows for a more dramatic design approach but also enhances interior space and flexibility. The second-row seating features almost six inches (150 mm) travel, adjustable either to the benefit of passenger leg room or rear cargo space, as required. Traditionally a compromised area, the third-row seating is able to accommodate children or adults with practical head- and knee room. Access to the third row of seats is facilitated by wide door openings and the long forward travel of the second-row seating. The second-row seating’s unique forward movement function also negates the need to remove any child seat fitted to the second row when accessing the third-row seating. In addition, both second- and third-row seating incorporate a split folding function, 60/40 for the second row and 50/50 for the third row, to further increase versatility and practicality. Both rows also recline for greater occupant comfort. As well as being truly versatile, the interior of the QX60 offers elegance and fine craftsmanship. Key design features include Infiniti’s signature driver-oriented cockpit, highlighted by thin chrome accents. Boosting the premium feel of the interior, for 2016 the upper instrument panel has been wrapped in soft-touch material with contrast stitching, while the gearshift knob and surround feature a new design and finish. “Graphite Weave” is the standard interior leather trim, with a quilted seat base and maple accents available with the Deluxe Technology Package. All models benefit from contrast stitching to the upper instrument and door panels available in three colors, Graphite, Java and Wheat. As an additional convenience for front seat occupants, the memory seat button has been relocated to the upper door trim. The tri-zone automatic temperature control system with microfilter has been revised for the 2016 QX60, offering improved performance for the first- and second-row occupants. A power sliding moonroof with tinted glass, one-touch open/close, tilt feature and sliding sunshade is standard on all models. Available as part of the Deluxe Technology Package is an Advanced Climate Control System with Plasmacluster® air purifier, grape polyphenol filter and auto recirculation. Also included within the Deluxe Technology Package is a panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade, which provides a light, airy environment for rear passengers. Standard connectivity and entertainment features include Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM® subscription required, separately available), and USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices. For 3.5-liter models, three additional USB charging ports have been added to the cabin, one convenient for the second-row seating and two for the third-row seating. High levels of connectivity, convenience and safety For 2016, the QX60 continues to deliver a high level of assistive and intuitive technology features, aimed at enhancing the premium crossover experience for all occupants. Infiniti Connection™ services include 24-hour automatic crash notification, emergency call, enhanced roadside assistance, stolen vehicle reporting, remote door lock/unlock, alarm notification, maintenance alert and scheduled maintenance notification. The “My Schedule” function can automatically synch a user’s schedule through Google Calendar™ and provide navigation guidance to appointments. The 2016 QX60 features Infiniti Personal Assistant™, Infiniti’s personal concierge service with 24 hour access to a live team of professional assistants. The service allows owners to make reservations, get directions, find points of interest, make dinner reservations, access gift services and receive a wide variety of other services at the touch of a button from inside the vehicle or through the owner’s mobile or home phone. In vehicles equipped with Infiniti Connection™, owners can have their Infiniti Personal Assistant™ find a restaurant, make the reservation, and have directions sent directly to their QX60’s Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System. Safeguarding occupants is a top priority for Infiniti, and several new safety technologies are available through 2016 QX60’s revised options packages. Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) utilizes advanced technology to calculate the distance between QX60 and the vehicle in front, as well as the speed of both vehicles, to detect the possibility of a collision and help mitigate or prevent it. The system operates in two stages, risk detection and collision detection. On detecting a risk, the system initially alerts the driver with visual and audible warnings and forcibly backs off the throttle. If the driver releases the accelerator, the system will apply partial braking. In the event that the system detects a collision may occur and there is no action taken by the driver, the system provides an additional set of warnings and applies harder braking to help avoid a collision, or mitigate the consequences should one occur. The Pedestrian Detection function within the FEB system applies this technology to avoid or mitigate collisions with pedestrians. Forward Collision Warning (FCW) alerts the driver of hazards in the road ahead – taking automatic action to help avoid or mitigate the effects of a collision. Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) alerts the driver to crossing vehicles and other large stationary objects to the rear when the transmission is in reverse. If necessary, the system is able to automatically to engage the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision. Parking is made easy with the addition of a new Around View® Monitor (AVM), with Moving Object Detection (MOD), using four wide-angle lenses – one on each side of the vehicle – to create a “birds-eye” view on the center console and give drivers a clear picture of nearby hazards during low-speed maneuvers. In addition to the long list of standard equipment, seven option packages, newly introduced for 2016, provide a means of personalization that reflects Infiniti’s versatile and passenger-minded approach to the new QX60. The new Infiniti QX60 goes on sale in selected markets later in 2016. View full article

There have been rumors and murmurs as the future of the Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge. The GT-R powered compact luxury sedan was rumored to head into production. But in recent months, Nissan has been changing its focus from the fun and exciting to volume. We now have an answer as to the fate of the Q50 Eau Rouge. Speaking with Car Magazine at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Infiniti's vice president of Global Operations, Francois Goupil de Bouille said the Eau Rouge had been canceled. "It was originally presented as a prototype but after we evaluated sales numbers, we realised it was not realistic to produce it. It was just too costly. That was it. It is always a matter of balance of cost versus benefit, and we decided to reign in our costs," said de Bouille. Despite the cancelling of the Eau Rouge, de Bouille didn't rule out models coming from a performance arm to compete with the likes of Audi's RS, BMW's M, and Mercedes' AMG. Source: Car Magazine View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 5, 2013 Infiniti has teased their showing for the Detroit Auto Show. The Q50 Eau Rouge is a vision of what a high-performance Q50 could look like. The 'Eau Rouge' comes from the famous early corner at Spa-Francorchamps, the race track where the Belgium's Formula One Grand Prix. Infiniti has very close ties to the Red Bull Formula One team and has been expanding their partnership by bringing in Sebastian Vettel as the Director of Performance. The image released by Infiniti show a front air dam and side mirrors crafted from carbon fiber, and what look to be openings in the hood. "Performance is a key pillar of Infiniti's DNA, and this car expresses a deepened design interpretation of that. The Q50, with an abundance of technologies, provides a great basis for an extreme performance version, embodied in the design of Q50 Eau Rouge," said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti's Executive Design Director. Source: Infiniti William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Dec. 5, 2013 Infiniti to Reveal Formula One Inspired Concept at Detroit Show Hong Kong – Infiniti will reveal a Formula One inspired concept car based on the Q50 premium sports sedan at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The concept car represents Infiniti's design vision of a high performance variant of Q50. Called "Q50 Eau Rouge," the car is named after the world-famous corner at the Formula One track in Spa-Francorchamps, a corner which requires extraordinary strength, courage and commitment; it has seen some of the most incredible driving feats in Formula One history. For Infiniti, the Q50 Eau Rouge concept blends road car technology and a thoroughbred motorsport vision. The Q50 Eau Rouge features aerodynamic styling treatments and design elements which are influenced by Infiniti's partnership with Formula One world championship-winning team Infiniti Red Bull Racing. "Performance is a key pillar of Infiniti's DNA, and this car expresses a deepened design interpretation of that. The Q50, with an abundance of technologies, provides a great basis for an extreme performance version, embodied in the design of Q50 Eau Rouge," said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti's Executive Design Director. View full article