Infiniti is set to raise the bar even further for in the Middle East market with six new models set to be released during 2006, following a record year for the luxury brand’s entry in to the regional market.
2005 sales in the Middle East have exceeded all projections with Infiniti dealers confident that the 2006 will continue this success.
The 2006 range comprises six models, headed by the Q premium luxury sedan, along with the QX full-size luxury SUV, G sports sedan, G sports coupe, FX premium crossover SUV and another award winning vehicle, the Infiniti M, which will be an exceptional addition to the Infiniti line-up of dynamic luxury performance vehicles.
The Q has always represented a unique combination of exciting performance, dramatic styling and a luxurious interior. The 2006 model maintains Infiniti’s distinctive and aggressive exterior appearance, highlighted by its front and rear fascias, hood and grille styling, headlight design, integrated fog lamps, trunk deck lid and finisher, and LED taillights.
Under the hood, the Q’s performance is matched with corresponding quietness, despite the muscular torque output of 47.8 kg-m and 365-hp from its engine – more horses than most V8 competitors. Its advanced five-speed automatic transmission has been recalibrated for improved downshift response and smoother acceleration.
The 2006 Q features such innovative technology as an LCD information display screen, RearView monitor, pre-crash seat belts and one of the most advanced headlight systems in the world.
Its Infiniti stablemate – the 2006 QX luxury sport utility vehicle – combines all the luxury appointments of the Q with seating for up to eight, generous cargo and towing capacity, plus rugged off-road capability.
Designated QX for its powerful 5.6-litre, 340-horsepower V8 engine, the 2006 Infiniti model is designed for buyers who are looking for something new and different in a full-size luxury SUV. It provides a combination of practical elegance and ergonomic thoughtfulness with a rewarding level of comfort and indulgence.
The Infiniti G sport coupe and G sedan share powerful, V6 rear-wheel drive performance with a racing-inspired platform and advanced technology, all draped under sensuous, aerodynamic bodies.
The 2006 G sport coupe is powered by a 3.5 litre, DOHC V6 with five-speed automatic transmission. The 2006 G sport sedan has the same 3.5-litre engine producing 289 horsepower and 37.9Kg/m of torque.
Performance-oriented features for the 2006 G include larger standard brake rotors and a sport-tuned suspension package that adds 18-inch wheels and tyres, viscous limited-slip differential, drilled aluminum pedals and unique sport steering wheel.
For the new model year, a new exterior silver color scheme is available for both the G coupe and sedan.
The FX is the Infiniti’s dramatic entry into the premium crossover SUV field. It is powered by a 3.5-litre, DOHC, 24-valve, V6 with aluminum-alloy block and heads and electronically controlled ‘drive-by-wire’ throttle system.
Visually, the Infiniti FX presents a stylish exterior characterized by its 2.85m long-wheelbase, wide track, aggressive stance, long hood line, and Infiniti’s signature grille.
The roof’s sleek profile, with a unique pillar design, is set off by the ‘taut canopy’ design of its rear profile. Rounding out the exterior visual appeal are ‘in-motion’ headlights and taillights and dual split tailpipes with chrome.
The all-new Infiniti M premium luxury sedan is the most technologically advanced vehicle ever built by Infiniti. It sets the standard for progressive technology for Infiniti today and all the Infiniti models that will follow.
Infiniti M has key features that distinguish it in the marketplace like push start button, AFS (Adaptive front headlight System), intelligent key, rear view camera, tire pressure Monitor and climate control seats among many others.
At the heart of the Infiniti M is the high-performance power of advanced V8 engine. The M45 features the powerful 4.5-liter DOHC V8 engine that drives the car with 335 horsepower. The M is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission with short-throw performance shifter and manual shift mode.
“A $2 billion automotive luxury market, the Middle East is one of the world’s most important markets for luxury vehicles and Infiniti has made an immediate impact that will become even more apparent during 2006 and the benefits of a full year’s trading”, said Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO of Nissan Motor Co, Ltd.
Since its initial North American launch in November 1989, Infiniti has been an award-winning leader in customer satisfaction, cutting-edge design and high performance. Following the introduction of the G sport sedan and coupe in 2002, Infiniti has expanded its vehicle line-up constantly and become the fastest-growing luxury brand in the US for the past two years.
Launching Infiniti in the Middle East is part of a long-term strategy to become a globally recognized luxury brand. In 2005, Infiniti was also launched in South Korea followed by planned introductions in Russia, China and the Ukraine over the course of the next few years.