Infiniti
PRESS | INFINITI G37 COUPÉ
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
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.
Exterior styling
A long bonnet, short overhangs and dramatically raked roof line give the G37 Coupé a silhouette that sets it apart from those rival products based more heavily on their saloon counterparts. Designed as a modern sports car without compromise, the G37 Coupé has elegant and sophisticated proportions allied to an expressive, curving shoulder-line to give a feeling of movement even when stationary. The shorter and lower roofline also helps accentuate the Coupé’s low centre of gravity and gives a clear indication that this is essentially a rear-wheel drive car.
Curving ‘character’ lines at the front of the car mimic the lines of the front wings and help give the Coupé a more athletic and aggressive stance, while the wave-style aluminium bonnet incorporates a natural power dome to accentuate the potency of what lies beneath. A special production process has been developed for installation of the headlights to ensure tight build tolerances and an exact fit into the complex front fascia.
Thanks to its shorter body, the Coupé’s rear shoulder is even more muscular than the Sedan’s, while the integral rear lip spoiler is more pronounced. The jewel-like tail-lights feature LED lamps to reinforce the Coupé’s high-tech appeal.
Chassis and driving dynamics
Like the Sedan, the Coupé uses the second generation version of Infiniti’s FM platform. The ‘front midships’ engine location sees the compact V6 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. Suspension uses lightweight aluminium components to reduce weight as much as possible. A double wishbone set up at the front and a subframe-mounted multi-link arrangement at the rear allied to an extremely rigid bodyshell, gives the G37 Coupé agile handling perfectly in keeping with its performance potential.
Four-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS) is available as part of the Sport Model (see standard and optional equipment). This helps improve handling performance still further by varying the front steering ratio and adjusting the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed. All versions of G37 Coupé come with Electronic Stability Program (ESP), while a Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) is included as part of the Sport package. 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).
To enhance the braking feel, the G37 Coupé uses a ‘link-design’ pedal which becomes progressively firmer as g-forces and vehicle speed increases. As a result, the driver has a more direct sensation of the forces acting on the car as he brakes from high speed, as well as the benefit of increased assistance. At lower speeds the brake is easier to operate but with more travel relative to assistance. The power steering system is a twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensing design, which provides optimum steering effort at both high and low vehicle speeds.
Engine and powertrain
Infiniti’s latest 3.7-litre V6 engine was given its debut in the G37 Coupé and now powers the Sedan, too. A potent, high revving engine, the 24-valve twin cam V6 produces over 310PS and over 350Nm of torque. Constructed from lightweight aluminium, the engine features a two-part bed-plate construction which is more rigid than a single piece casting for reduced vibration levels. It also permits sustained use at higher revs: the V6 is red-lined at 7,500rpm. The VQ37 unit features V-VEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology to optimise efficiency and, in turn, the balance between power, response, fuel efficiency and emissions.
By continually altering valve lift and therefore the quantity of air in the combustion chamber it provides a more powerful combustion phase to increase torque and power. Best of all, as the valves control the intake rather than a conventional butterfly, response to throttle inputs is immediate. 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.
In keeping with the performance profile of the Coupé, Infiniti engineers have developed a special aural soundtrack for the car. Equal length tubular exhaust manifolds and a symmetrical exhaust and silencer system have allowed the engineers to create a linear sound with a good balance between low and high frequency notes. As well as a smooth shifting six-speed manual transmission, the G37 Coupé will be available with a new seven-speed automatic option with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) allowing a downshift blip control.
Interior environment
By providing a sporting cockpit environment for the driver and a luxuriously open space for the passengers, the G37 and G37 Coupé share similar design objectives when it comes to their respective interiors. Coupé’s 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. Textured aluminium trim inserts can be found on the centre console, the instrument binnacle and the door panels. Gracefully curved door trims have been inspired by traditional Japanese ceremonial swords while the true aluminium trim inserts are inspired by Japanese Washi handmade paper. Other signature Infiniti features are the elegant analogue clock on the dashboard and purple backlighting of instruments and controls. Thanks to its long wheelbase, there is room in the rear compartment for two adults with easy ingress and egress provided by the wide opening doors and the electric fold and slide front seats.
Safety
High levels of passive safety were a priority at the design stage. As a result, the G37 Coupé has a full complement of six airbags, seat belt sensors and passenger seat occupancy sensor. The front seats incorporate hip and thorax bags, while there are front-to-rear curtain airbags for protection in a side impact. Also standard is a pop-up bonnet, designed to offer greater crash protection for pedestrians. In the event of a collision, a small pyrotechnic charge raises the trailing edge of the bonnet close to the lower edge of the windscreen. This creates a larger buffer between the bonnet and the top of the engine, providing a more yielding surface which in turn helps to reduce potential injuries.
Standard and optional equipment
Following the lead set by the G37, the G37 Coupé has a full complement of standard equipment, plus options for those who want to make even more of a statement. Standard features include the I-key with smart access that incorporates personalised memory functions on the key fob. A six-disc, seven-speaker audio system, Bluetooth phone connectivity and cruise control can all be operated via switches on the leather trimmed steering wheel. Other features include power seats (with eight way adjustment on the driver’s side and four way for the passenger), auto-dimming rear view mirror, front and rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, 18-inch alloy wheels, six airbags and integrated fog lamps.
An adaptive front-light system (AFS) and “Scratch Shield” self healing paint are also standard. 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. “Scratch Shield” paint incorporates a special highly elastic resin within the conventional clearcoat to increase the paint’s flexibility. A car painted as such can exhibit up to five times fewer scratches that a conventional clearcoat when exposed to the same conditions.
Options include a leather package with leather seats, heated in the front, power lumbar support for the driver and an upgrade to eight-way adjustment for the passenger. To sharpen the G37 Coupé further, a sports package provides 19-inch alloy wheels, Four-Wheel Active Steering, heated leather covered sport seats, tyre pressure monitoring, a viscous limited slip differential and sports settings for the suspension, steering and brakes.
Satellite navigation, reversing camera and a premium 11-speaker sound system developed by Bose form the multimedia package are also available, while the final option is an Intelligent Cruise Control, operating in “Full Speed Range” from 0km/h on the automatic versions, using brakes, throttle and laser sensors to help maintain a set distance between the Coupé and the car in front. The custom-engineered Bose sound system sets a new standard for stereo performance in a car. Its 11 high-performance speakers provide crisp musical detail, with impactful low notes bringing G Coupé owners closer to the power and emotion of a live concert performance.
Conclusion
“G37 Coupé is built to the same exacting standards as the G37 and enjoys excellent dynamic qualities, equipment levels and refinement. Thanks to its own distinctive style it will offer a genuine and exciting alternative in the segment,” says Nicolas Tschann, Product Manager, Infiniti Europe.
PRESS RELEASE (Source: Infiniti via World Car Fans)
PRESS | INFINITI EX37
Any new car buyer wanting a vehicle with the style of a coupé and the versatility of a four-wheel drive crossover would have had to buy two cars to satisfy every need.
But that’s about to change. The launch of the Infiniti EX37, the world’s first compact coupe crossover, opens an entirely new market segment for Europe’s newest car brand.
Boasting avantgarde coupé looks and a practical, luxury interior with the commanding driving position and four-wheel drive traction expected from an SUV, the EX really does provide the best of all worlds.
“Infiniti prides itself on offering something different with each of its model ranges, but the EX is easily the most different of all,” says Jim Wright, Vice President, Infiniti Europe.
“It’s the perfect fusion of a compact Crossover and a stylish coupé: there’s nothing quite like it on the market today … though we are certain that rival manufacturers will quickly try to follow suit with their own variations on the theme.”
But there’s more to the remarkable EX than a ground-breaking concept. Built to the same exacting standards as all Infiniti models, the EX37 offers an exceptional combination of elegance, style, performance and technology.
It is the first production vehicle in the world to benefit from the advanced Around View Monitor system that gives the driver a bird’s eye view of the vehicle while it’s being parked and the unique ‘Scratch Shield’.
“Because it is such a versatile offering, the EX37 will attract a wide audience. It’s the perfect vehicle for a young family, or a sports enthusiast who enjoys skiing or cycling. It will appeal to the coupé owner who needs more space in his or her car but isn’t prepared to sacrifice style to get it,” says Bastien Schupp, Marketing Director, Infiniti Europe.
“And like the other Infiniti products being introduced to the European market, it will appeal to individuals and free thinkers who never take the default option.”
EX at a glance
* Unique combination of style and practicality
* Intelligent four-wheel drive
* Advanced features including Around View Monitor
* Potent 3.7-litre V6 engine producing over 310PS
* Advanced seven-speed automatic
* Superior build quality
EX in detail
The Infiniti EX37 is likely to be one of the most talked about new models launched in 2008. Powered by a new 3.7-litre version VQ family of petrol engines, EX37 brings together three different elements in one elegantly attractive package.
Its distinctive coupé-like styling masks a roomy cabin with electric fold down rear seats to extend the load bay and turn it into a sports estate. And then there’s the raised driving position and four-wheel drive traction of an SUV to consider. It all makes EX perhaps the ultimate Crossover.
Based on the Infiniti FM platform, EX37 shares much of its hardware with both the G37 and G37 Coupé. As a result, it enjoys the same high levels of handling precision and balance as well as similar levels of performance, refinement, build quality and equipment.
EX37 is available with a new seven-speed automatic transmission while the suspension design - double wishbone set up at the front and multi-link arrangement at the rear - delivers the ideal blend between sporting handling and superior ride comfort.
Following usual Infiniti peace of mind, EX37 comes exceptionally well equipped as standard, while for those who want more there is a full leather version available as well as a multimedia package introducing advanced new technology to the market sector.
Exterior styling
Despite its Crossover status, EX37 has been designed following traditional Coupé lines. That means a stretched wheelbase, long bonnet, short overhangs and a sharply tapering roof line. It is noticeably lower than its key rivals which helps to accentuate its low centre of gravity and lends more credence to its Crossover status.
Although longer than most of its SUV rivals – which benefits interior space – a compact overall shape help give EX37 the best aerodynamic positioning in the sector.
Above all, though, it’s the balanced harmony of its lines that help EX claim a unique place in a crowded market. Its designers have skilfully blended enough signature elements – such as the double arch grille, wave form bonnet and L-shaped headlamps – to ensure it’s an obvious member of the Infiniti family. Yet the overall effect is quite unlike anything in the range.
A bold and masculine stance contrasts with the flowing curves over the high wheelarches and the dramatic slope of the roofline. The rear has a simple, almost three dimensional, appearance combining an energetic shape with elegant styling features such as the chrome door handles, LED rear lights and integrated rear spoiler.
A feeling of sophistication comes with the use of darkened privacy glass for the rear windows, the simple seven-spoke 18 inch alloy wheels and fog lamps which are set deep into the front aero bumper.
Chassis and driving dynamics
EX37 uses the second generation version of Infiniti FM platform in which the engine is located in a ‘front midships’ position: 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. It also permits use of a long bonnet to accentuate the classic coupé silhouette.
Suspension design uses lightweight aluminium components to reduce weight as much as possible. With a double wishbone set up at the front, a multi-link arrangement mounted on a subframe behind and an extremely rigid bodyshell, EX feels agile and surefooted with a refined ride.
With extensive use of high strength steel throughout the shell and added strengthening elements in critical parts of the structure – notably under floor crossmembers and C-pillar reinforcements – EX has exceptionally high torsional rigidity and lateral bending resistance.
As well as boosting handling, the rigid body improves refinement thanks to low levels of vibration and improved resonance.
To keep weight to a minimum, however, extensive use has been made of lightweight parts. As well as featuring in the suspension systems, aluminium is used for the EX37 bonnet, while the tailgate is resin. Were steel to be used for those elements, EX37 would be some 50kg heavier. As a result EX37 is one of the lightest cars in its class.
Ride quality is also helped by the use of advanced Dual Flow Path (DFP) dampers which reduce low speed vibration that leads to a choppy ride and which further reduce levels of body roll.
An essential element of its crossover role is the adoption of Infiniti’s ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system.
Also available on the G37, 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.
Unlike permanent 4×4 systems, which deaden the steering feel and dull the driving dynamics, the electromagnetic torque transfer at the heart of ATTESA E-TS intelligent all-wheel drive’s system permits an element of oversteer for a more sporting drive.
Vehicle stability is further enhanced by Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with is a standard fit. Intelligent all-wheel drive works with ESP and the limited-slip differential, constantly shifting torque as the EX37 encounters changes in the road conditions when, within milliseconds, it will apportion power to the wheels with the most grip.
The system is most active in trickier weather conditions. As the EX37 navigates snow, ice, or heavy rain, power is continuously apportioned to the wheel or wheels with the best traction.
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). A further refinement is the availability of Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA). An integral part of Intelligent Cruise Control, when the system detects that a collision with a car in front is imminent it first warns the driver and then brakes the car itself.
The braking system is just one aspect of the EX37 that has been tuned to meet European needs where higher average speeds mean higher deceleration requirements. A team of dedicated Infiniti engineers based at Nissan’s Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) have also fine tuned suspension settings and optimised aerodynamic efficiency for greater higher speed stability.
The power steering system provides optimum steering effort at both high and low vehicle speeds.
Engine and powertrain
The EX37 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… while the increase in power is balanced by more efficient combustion to the benefit of fuel economy.
Precise mapping of the 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.
EX37 will be available with a new seven-speed automatic option with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC).
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. The seven-speed automatic transmission also features a manual mode with blip control to enhance the driver’s driving pleasure.
Interior environment
Inside EX37 is an environment designed to appeal to driver and passengers alike. Quality materials provide the warmth and comfort expected in a luxury saloon, 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.
Uniquely in its class, EX37 eases the loading and unloading of luggage with electric fold down rear seats. Each portion of the split folding backrest can be lowered simply by pulling a lever in the rear of the trunk area.
And even more easily, the backrest can raised electrically by pressing a button on the centre console. Load space is enhanced by a 45-litre underfloor storage compartment. This area is reduced if the Bose premium sound system is specified or the vehicle is equipped with a spare wheel in place of the standard inflation kit.
Standard and optional equipment
EX37 offers a full complement of standard equipment and features the Infiniti I-Key with smart access. 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.
Also standard are privacy glass, 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 (featuring thorax and pelvis protection) and integrated fog lamps. The leather trimmed steering wheel incorporates controls for the audio system, cruise control and telephone.
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.
Optional on EX37 are a full leather version (offering leather heated seats, power passenger seat) and a Multimedia pack (with satellite navigation, a rear view parking camera, voice recognition and Bose Premium sound). A unique feature in the full leather version is the extendable jacket hanger integrated into the back of the driver head rest. Also, this version allows personal settings for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors to be programmed into the key so that the key holder won’t have to reposition anything if the car has been driven by anyone else.
The Bose sound system is custom-engineered specifically for the EX37 to help reproduce music with clarity and spaciousness. Because it’s designed to work together with the EX37’s unique cabin acoustics, the Bose system delivers a level of music reproduction that approaches that of a live concert.
Also available are an adaptive front-light system (AFS) and Intelligent Cruise Control operating in “Full Speed Range”. In AFS, the 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. ICC uses brake, throttle and laser sensors to help maintain a set distance between EX37 and the car in front. The software allows ICC to work from 0km/h thanks to the “Full Speed Range” feature.
But it is the final option that really lifts EX above its rivals. The Around View Monitor uses small cameras mounted at the front, rear and on the sides of EX37 to project an all-round view of potential obstacles on every side of the vehicle. A natural extension of Infiniti’s rear view parking camera, the Around View Monitor uses the colour sat nav monitor to display a bird’s eye view of the car as it parks, enabling the driver to negotiate a tight parking spot with mishap.
Conclusion
“EX is a refreshing new take on the crossover concept. By blending coupé looks with SUV ability and sports estate practicality, it really does create a totally new breed of car. Add in excellent driving dynamics, superb quality and innovative features and the result is engaging, elegant and exciting,” says Nicolas Tschann, Product Manager, Infiniti Europe.
PRESS RELEASE (Source: Nissan)
