What It Is
A mission statement for Infiniti wrapped in a gorgeous coupe envelope
with a mega price tag. Cue the thunder, lightning, and Beethoven’s “Ode
to Joy.”
Why It Matters
Infiniti needs more customers, and potential buyers need to understand
what, aside from confusing alphanumeric names, defines this luxury
brand. This car will be a lavish showcase of design and performance.
Platform
A new rear- and four-wheel-drive architecture to be shared with the
brand’s other upcoming range topper, a sedan that will take on big Euro
autobahn queens such as the BMW 7-series and Mercedes-Benz S-class.
Powertrain
Infiniti prez Johan de Nysschen, who clearly has lofty ambitions, says
the brand has abandoned V-8s for future products. Conveniently, the 2009 Essence concept
that inspired this flagship was said to be powered by a hybrid system
featuring a twin-turbo six, and we’ve been told to expect the
next-generation Nissan GT-R to be thus hybridized. Figure on a similar
drivetrain powering this coupe, with output possibly exceeding 600
horsepower.
Competition
What Might Go Wrong
It needs to look like the achingly beautiful Essence concept, but it
might not. Also, is the world ready for a six-figure Infiniti? Whatever
happened to kicking BMW in the 3-series, where it actually hurts?
Estimated Arrival and Price
The earliest we’ll see this new coupe is in 2018. Prices should start at about $150,000. No, that is not a typo
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