Formula One World Champion Sebastian Vettel took a drive in his Infiniti. Click here to view the exciting footage.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Friday, June 8, 2012
Enjoy an amazing experience with the 2012 Infiniti G25
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Get behind the wheel of the 2012 Infiniti G37 Convertible today at Parkway Infiniti
We know. You know. We both know that you want this vehicle in your driveway. The 2012 Infiniti G37 Convertible - the car of the summer- is here and it's waiting for you. Click here to learn about this impressive vehicle. http://bit.ly/Ni1p06
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Infiniti FX35 Limited Edition, 2012: Stylish, high-performance SUV gets jolt
When the Infiniti FX was introduced in 2003, the luxury performance SUV was a novel, if strange, idea. Now, nearly every brand has some version of a sporty crossover, which means many drivers are looking for sports car performance with SUV functionality.
Although not the sales leader it once was, the Infiniti FX continues to offer unique styling and competitive performance. For its mid-cycle update, Infiniti has given the 2012 FX a mild makeover. Most noticeable is a revised front fascia that gives the FX a decidedly more aggressive appearance.
To generate additional interest, Infiniti is also offering a Limited Edition of the FX35. With only 500 available in the U.S., the model features Iridium Blue paint and 21-inch graphite finish wheels turbine patterned spokes. The combined look is striking and drew the attention of many motorists.
The Limited Edition features the same 3.5-liter V6 engine found in all FX35s. With 303 horsepower, acceleration is brisk, although I had to wait for the RPMs increase before the acceleration impressive. Buyers looking for more oomph should consider the FX50 and its 392 horsepower V8.
Perhaps the performance weak spot is the 7-speed automatic transmission. Although shifting is smooth, when I stabbed the gas there was a noticeable delay before any downshifting occurred. Considering how much the engine likes to rev, this proved frustrating when tackling twisty roads that require accelerating hard out of tight corners. There is a manual mode to keep a lower gear, but the absence of paddle shifters makes this more chore than pleasure.
Luckily the FX35 allows quite a bit of speed through the turns. The suspension keeps the FX remarkably flat through the turns and low-profile tires provide plenty of stick. The process feels disconcerting, though, as the FX sits high off the ground. It definitely takes courage to push the car anywhere close to its limits.
The FX35 continues the Infiniti tradition of providing a well-designed interior and some of the latest technology. The Around View Monitor makes for easy parking, as it gave me a bird's eye view of the car. Equally useful is the Adaptive Front lighting System, which swivels the headlights while negotiating corners at night.
The FX35 proved more practical than its sleek shape suggests. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo area easily swallowed two bikes and camping gear for a quick trip to the Sierra Nevadas. Try doing that in a sports coupe
Unfortunately one habit the FX35 shares with most high-powered sports cars is frequent gas station visits. Even on the highway EPA 20 mpg estimate is hard to achieve, a premium unleaded is required.
The FX35 pricing starts at $43,700, with the Limited Edition priced at $51,550. Despite its substantial cost, it's thousands less than a similarly equipped BMW X6.
Although a high performance SUV like the FX35 might sound like an oxymoron, the FX35 is a perfect do-everything vehicle. Commute to work in the morning, haul groceries in the afternoon, and go canyon carving on the weekend. And do it all in style.
http://bit.ly/L7c4Yk
Monday, June 4, 2012
Enjoy excellence with the 2012 Infiniti M35h at Parkway Infiniti
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Best of the Best 2012: Sport-Utility Vehicles: Infiniti JX35
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Thanks, Wayne, for this five-star review
Now to the car, what can I say..., I had BMW 328i (full sports package) before and the G37S blows it's doors off. I think Car and Driver said it best "At the track, the Infiniti shamed the Bimmer in every contest except for skidpad (a tie). In acceleration, the chase wasn't even close, with the G37 ahead by a half-second at 60 mph--5.4 seconds versus 5.9--and leading by 6 mph at the quarter-mile. The G37's gap was narrower but still significant in the lane change. In braking, its one-foot-out performance from 70 mph--159 feet versus the BMW's 160--is almost certainly insignificant, but we'll call that one for the G on the superior detailing of its calipers, finished in glowing satin metallic etched with a subtle Infiniti logo. The G37 Sport, designated by a red "S" on the tail--plus a subtly reshaped fascia and sill treatments--gets a six-speed manual, shorter final-drive gearing with a viscous limited slip, quicker steering, and very large brakes: 14.0-inch discs in front, 13.8s in back, all vented. Inside, there's a highly supportive sport seat with power adjusters to tailor thigh and torso bolsters. The cockpit supports vigorous motoring. There's a rest for your left foot in exactly the right place. The tilting column moves the instrument cluster so the dials are always centered within the wheel. The buttons and rockers on the wheel are the easiest of all to use." It's all true! Take a drive over to Parkway Infiniti in Santa Clarita, meet the team, spend some time with the cars, you won't be disappointed. In addition, I've been in for service for two oil changes. The car came back on time with a through wash in and out! Great! Well done Michael, You have a great Dealership!" - Wayne M.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Infiniti Introduces The EV Insider Social Hub
Back at the 2012 New York Auto Show, Infiniti revealed the LE Concept. The concept is an electric luxury sedan that Infiniti says it'll put into production within the next two years. Now Infiniti has launched the EV Insider social hub, which it hopes will create conversations regarding sustainable luxury.
The hub is a dedicated website that allows fans to discover every detail you can imagine about the LE Concept. Broken into five main sections, the hub allows you to navigate easily to what you are most interested in, including featured insiders, recommended news and noteworthy information, luxury, design, and technology.
Infiniti has included quite a lot of social sharing capabilities in the hub, in an effort to let electric car fans share with each other. You have the ability to share what you are looking at on all the major social networks, and you can also see what different people are saying about both Infiniti and the LE Concept.
You can join the conversation yourself to receive updates on the LE Concept, or to become a contributor to the site.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Infiniti Draws on "Curved Visions" for Second Theme of Digital Art Competition
“Curved Visions,” which is opens for entry on the website of designboom (designboom.com), the online art, architecture and design magazine and partner of the automaker’s world-wide competition, builds on the success of “Inspired Performance,” the first theme of the contest which saw registrations from over 500 designers from 23 countries across the globe. The Infiniti Digital Art Competition is the very first international free-to-enter competition of its kind, in which any individual, of any artistic talent, is eligible to put forward their creations. This may take the form of computer-generated sculptures, 2D or 3D video animations, or experiential cinema projections.
The latest theme, which is open for the next three months, challenges artists to define their digital interpretation of the curves which flow through Infiniti’s line-up of beautifully-styled cars as well as the individual experience which they evoke. The natural lines found in the models denote beauty, power, and performance and defy convention – they are not straight.
When the “Curved Visions” competition closes on July 10, 2012, a judging panel of experts and influencers in the spheres of innovation, design, and marketing, will collectively choose the most outstanding examples of digital art from 30 of the theme’s most exceptional examples of art, as nominated by designboom and Infiniti. The six finalists will enjoy the unique privilege of seeing their work displayed during this year’s opening ceremonies of new flagship Infiniti Centers in some of Europe’s most revered cities. These will include Vienna in Austria, as well as Strasbourg and Paris in France.
The judging panel for the second theme of the Infiniti Digital Art Competition has been confirmed as follows:
- Japan-born, Shinji Nukumi is the winner of the opening theme of the Infiniti Digital Art Competition, ‘Inspired Performance’. The 37 year-old from Tokyo won the debut phase of the contest with his design ‘Infiniti Passion’ which focuses on the ‘inner’ dimension of the car in order to be able to see the potential of the Infiniti marque.
- Jean-Marie Dru holds the position of Chairman of one of the world's largest advertising networks, TBWA Worldwide. Dru started his career in 1971 with Dupuy Compton (now Saatchi & Saatchi) as an Account Manager for client Procter & Gamble, but was quickly promoted to Executive Creative Director. He then joined Young & Rubicam, before setting up the BDDP Group in 1984 with three partners where he pioneered the "Disruption" concept, and selling the company to Omnicom.
- Victor Nacif is the current Vice President of Nissan Design Europe. A graduate of the Stanford Graduate School of Business and of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Nacif has undertaken roles at the Ford Motor Company and PSA Peugeot Citroen in France and before becoming Vice President of Nissan Design America in 2004. Nacif has been actively engaged in introducing better practices and methodologies to increase efficiency and effectiveness amongst Nissan Design affiliates worldwide.
- Jean-Pierre Diernaz is the Marketing Director of Infiniti Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa. A sales and marketing specialist who joined Nissan Europe from the Ford Motor Company in 2005, Diernaz has for many years demonstrated a passion for art and design and is equally responsible for introducing and spearheading the digital art competition on behalf of the Japanese marque.
- Italian Massimo Mini is the Editor-in-Chief, and Co-Founder of designboom alongside Birgit Lohmann, as well as a renowned designer based in Milan.
Commenting on the launch of “Curved Visions,” Jean-Pierre Diernaz, Marketing Director of Infiniti Europe, and jury member of “Curved Visions,” says: “The Infiniti Digital Art Competition has been a true journey of discovery which has revealed a remarkable level of talent originating from different continents. The latest theme challenges artists to think about and delve behind the beauty of the unique curves found at the heart of our cars, whilst defining their own interpretation of what these personally signify.”
Jean-Pierre adds: “We received a very positive response to the first Inspired Performance theme coupled with a very high caliber of entries. This provides a solid foundation from which to continue to grow the contest across the globe, and we are already looking forward to seeing further examples of exceptional digital art from new innovators.”
To enter the competition and to view terms and conditions, visit www.designboom.com/infiniti or www.infiniti.eu
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Are you ready for the Infiniti LE Concept?
Monday, May 21, 2012
Get one step closer to your dream Infniti with an online finance application
Friday, May 18, 2012
The 2013 Infiniti JX offers an outstanding experience
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Enjoy high quality and low prices at Parkway Infiniti
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Redesigned 2014 Infiniti G37 Confirmed for Spring 2013 Launch
Palmer did not provide any further details on the specific redesign, but he did note that Nissan's new engine building partnership with Mercedes-Benz was quickly getting up to speed. The initial plan is to build four-cylinder engines for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but don't be surprised to see that same engine reconfigured for use in a base model G in place of the current small-displacement V6.
Although Palmer made no mention of it, the next-generation G37 may also get a hybrid drivetrain. Infiniti already offers a hybrid setup in its midsize M35h, so the next G could easily adopt the same V6/electric motor system with high-performance results.
When asked about whether Nissan is looking into turbocharging its V6 engines, Palmer noted that "everybody is looking to deliver V8 power with V6 efficiency, so turbocharging often makes sense."
Monday, May 14, 2012
Don't miss out on attractive pre-owned specials at Parkway Infiniti
Friday, May 11, 2012
Don't miss out on great vehicle specials at Parkway Infiniti
_at_Parkway.png)
We are certain you can appreciate savings like these. We're offering attractive lease specials on the 2012 Infiniti G25, G37, FX35 and M37. These great deals are yours for the taking!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Enjoy the good life with the 2012 Infiniti G37 Convertible
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
The 2012 Infiniti M37 is here at Parkway Infiniti
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
The 2012 Infiniti G37 Coupe: Elegant and Built to Perform
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
The Infiniti EMERG-E Concept
Monday, April 23, 2012
Enjoy impressive savings on the 2011 Infiniti EX35 at Parkway Infiniti
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
The G37: Luxury, Performance, and Style. Experience it at Parkway Infiniti today.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
2013 Infiniti JX Named to Ward's 10 Best Interiors for 2012 List.
The all-new 2013 Infiniti JX luxury crossover has been on sale in the United States for less than a month but it has already picked up its first major media award - being named to WardsAuto.com and WardsAuto World magazine's prestigious Ward's 10 Best Interiors list for 2012.
"The Infiniti JX carries over and improves on the excellent interior design language we saw in the M sedan a few years ago and in the QX SUV last year. The WardsAuto editors find the JX to be an ideal blend of premium wood, sumptuous leather and judiciously applied brushed aluminum trim. The entire interior feels meticulously crafted," Ward's editorial staff wrote in announcing the selection of the Infiniti JX.
"The value proposition is tremendous: $54,800 for a stylish, well-appointed 7-passenger cross/utility vehicle that still feels remarkably car-like and has a panoramic roof that fills the entire cabin with natural light. And climbing into the third row is no trouble at all thanks to the ingenious sliding, folding-clamshell second-row seats," they continued.
The 2013 Infiniti JX luxury crossover is available now at Infiniti retailers nationwide. Pricing starts at $40,450 USD for the Infiniti JX35 FWD and $41,550 USD for the Infiniti JX35 AWD, including standard leather-appointed seating and innovative multi-mode middle seat that provides entry to the 3rd row without removing a 2nd row child seat.
The full article on the awards will be available in the May issue and online at WardsAuto.com on April 30th. The award will be presented at a ceremony in Dearborn, Mich. on May 17th.
"The initial response to the new Infiniti JX from consumers and media has been tremendous and we're thrilled by the early recognition from WardsAuto World," said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. "We believe the JX's hospitality features are unmatched in the segment and it's great to have this important third party validation right out of the box."
Vehicles are selected to the Ward's 10 Best Interiors list after an intensive evaluation of dozens of nominated vehicles, each judged in areas such as materials, ergonomics, safety, the human-machine interface, comfort, fit-and-finish, overall value and aesthetics.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
2012 Infiniti FX35: Different looks with solid performance chops for a crossover
NEWS EDITOR GREG MIGLIORE: The Infiniti FX is one of my favorite crossovers to look at. It is one thing to make a sports car look good, but this five-passenger crossover is killer. The bulging fenders bookend a long hood, the headlights are piercing and there's chrome in all the right places, calling attention to vents on the quarter-panels and highlighting the greenhouse. Plus these wheels look like something straight from SEMA. It all flows and works together in harmony, making an everyday vehicle anything but average.
I was impressed with the cabin, which is nicely done in black leather in this tester. It's simple and presents well. The atmosphere is also quiet, with just a bit of wind and tire noise entering at expressway speeds. The navigation system is sharp, too, offering three-dimensional graphics to show off landmarks along the way. I saw Detroit's historic Fox Theatre in dramatic clarity on the screen even before I realized I had almost rolled past it on Woodward Avenue.
The V6 is strong, eager and propels this decent-size vehicle to speed with ease, and it works well with the seven-speed automatic. The FX35 is a solid execution, and I think it's one of the standard-bearers in the segment.
DIGITAL EDITOR ANDREW STOY: I've been hard on some of our Infiniti fleet cars. The G37 IPL and the M35h just never really clicked with me, being reasonable entrants in their respective classes but nothing special. And for the price Infiniti still commands, they'd better be something special.
Fortunately, the FX35 lives up to its billing. It's not often that a crossover stops me in my tracks, especially one from the Ace and Gary School of Design. But the theme works well on the FX: 20-inch wheels help what's essentially a tall design appear to squat down in fluid motion even standing still, and the black chrome adorning everything from the wheels to the grille to the luggage carrier was just gorgeous against the deep blue paint worn by our tester.
Inside was more of the same. Where I've found some Infiniti models sterile because of the lack of appointments, the FX seemed to offer just the right blend of luxury and European spartan design ethic. The driving position was instantly comfortable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the glove-leather texture of the steering wheel--get the steering wheel right and I can forgive a few sins. After all, it's the gateway to the driving experience.
The FX sports Z-car roots, and the heritage is apparent after just a short drive. Unlike the similarly sized Nissan Murano with its dowdy CVT and front-drive bias, the FX35 requests that you sit back, look out over the long hood and proceed to go as fast as you like, as quickly as you care to get there. The outstanding VQ-series V6 and the seven-speed autobox are happy to service your request. Big binders clamp down to get you out of trouble, and the FX handles with aplomb in most situations short of an actual racetrack.
Quibbles are limited to steering that's a bit too sensitive at freeway speeds--it adds to the sporty feel but can require too much concentration at times--and the Infiniti's rather prodigious thirst. A mere 21 mpg highway doesn't cut it in this day of the 28-mpg three-row Ford Explorer. Even the Infiniti's direct competitor, the BMW X3 xDrive 35i, manages a solid 26 mpg on the open road.
The FX35 is expensive, too, slotting comfortably into BMW and Mercedes-Benz territory in the low-$50,000 range. It's so different, though--an avant garde sport-luxury crossover?--in so many ways that it's tough to pigeonhole the Infiniti into any specific category. That alone makes it worth consideration.
EXECUTIVE EDITOR BOB GRITZINGER: Infiniti's FX models have been the odd ducks from the start, with the tall slab sides, high sills and slammed lids. It's a look that takes some getting used to, but for those looking for an alternative in the boxy or egg-shaped world of crossovers, it's a truly different styling statement. Almost artsy, in an automotive-sculpture way.
Points by other editors are spot-on--the underlying chassis and powertrain feel eager and ready to be pushed, whether that's off the line to redline or around a corner at the limit. The engine runs strong, and the suspension backs up the vehicle's sporty appearance. It might even be a little too hard-charging for those who want more comfort in their ride, but I thought it was just about right.
As noted, the steering is on the over-responsive, darty side, but that could have as much to do with the big meats on these 20s as anything. It could get tedious on a long drive.
Everything inside is done in luxury fashion, with all of the right goodies and a great driving position. The FX might not be everyone's favorite, but that's only another reason to be among those in the FX crowd.
Monday, April 9, 2012
The 2013 Infiniti JX is coming soon at Parkway Infiniti
Thursday, April 5, 2012
The 2013 Infiniti JX35 is here and ready to impress
Infiniti has a goal. It plans to sell over 600,000 cars around the world by 2016. That means a few things need to happen. First, the brand needs to expand to new and emerging markets, notably Russia, China, and South America. These are the same rapidly growing markets parent company Nissan has targeted with the revival of the Datsun nameplate as its new low-priced brand. Second, Infiniti needs to expand the number of categories it’s competing in.
Currently, the G range handles the luxury/sport coupe, convertible, and sport sedan markets. The upmarket M is the mid-size luxury competitor, going toe-to-toe with luxury giants like the BMW 5-Series, Lexus GS, Audi A6, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The EX and FX crossovers handle the luxury and sport CUV categories admirably, while the big-boy QX is Infiniti’s entry for the full-size, truck-like SUV.
With those five models, Infiniti covers a fairly decent range. One segment (and a growing one) that has been missing, though, is the three-row, family friendly CUV. With stiff competition from the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, and even the Land Rover LR4 and BMW X5, it’s going to take some effort to crack into this lucrative slice of the pie. Good news for Infiniti fans, then, that the 2013 JX has just hit the marketplace.
This three-row crossover is meant to bridge the gap between the comfy/involving EX and FX, and the big, luxurious QX. Based on price point alone it should fit in well. With a front-wheel-drive JX starting at $40,450, it sits squarely in between the EX and FX, and is about $19,000 cheaper than a QX. That price also undercuts the Acura MDX ($42,930) and the Audi Q7 ($46,250). Even when you tack on all-wheel drive, the JX still seems to be somewhat of a steal at $41,550.
There will be five distinct packages for the JX, covering a broad range of needs. The $4950 Premium Package includes a 13-speaker Bose stereo, navigation, and the Infiniti Around-View Monitoring system, as well as other smaller features. $1700 will snag you the Theater Package, which includes Infiniti’s dual, seven-inch, headrest-mounted monitors, along with a 120-volt plug-in, and RCA outputs, allowing the kids to hook up their Playbox180, or simply pop in a DVD. The Driver Assistance Package kicks the MSRP up $2200, and adds a wealth of tech options (and acronyms) to your JX, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, Distance Control Assist, Intelligent Brake Assist with Forward Collision Monitoring, and Back-up Collision Intervention. For $2550, the Deluxe Touring Package swaps out the 13-speaker Bose stereo for a 15-speaker Bose surround sound system, adds a fixed second and third-row moonroof, twenty-inch wheels, and the seats are now air conditioned in addition to the standard butt warmers. Finally, the $3100 Technology Pack is like an advanced Driver Assistance Package, and features lane departure warning and prevention, blind spot intervention, and pre-crash seatbelts in the front seats.
The JX exterior borrows rather heavily from the Essence concept that debuted at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show; in particular the crescent-shaped chrome trim around the C-pillar. The JX shares the current Infiniti double-arch grille that’s becoming common across the range, too.
Inside, the JX cabin proves it intends to be a luxury player with an eye-pleasing layout covered in soft-touch plastics where necessary, and wood trim where possible. The navigation system is the same setup we’ve been using for years, and it thankfully retains the analog controls on top of the touchscreen interface. The front seats were comfortable, although pleasingly snug, and the range of adjustment made it easy for us to find a good driving position. In back, the 60/40 split-folding rear seats are comfortable and roomy, and can easily be slid forward, collapsing in on themselves to accommodate rear seat entry.
We’ll be honest, few vehicles on the market make third-row entry easy, but Infiniti is giving it a serious go with the JX. There’s a nice, wide space when the second row slides forward, granting access to the surprisingly large third row. Cargo space, even with the third row up, looks larger than Audi’s Q7, and with the second row down, comes across as simply massive.
Power, rather disappointingly, does not come from the 5.0-liter V-8 that powers the FX and QX. Instead, Infiniti’s stalwart 3.5-liter VQ35 V-6 is the sole means of motivation. With 265 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque hauling around roughly 4400 pounds, the JX wasn’t exactly fast. Still, on our route around Charleston, we found both the power on hand and the delivery to be quite linear and smooth. The engine sounded muted, relative to other applications we’ve seen it in, and this was a pretty quiet vehicle in general (more on that in a second). Off-the-line power was respectable, although we suspect the Audi Q7’s supercharged, 3.0-liter V-6 would prove a tough match in this regard.
Part of the JX’s smooth power delivery has to be attributed to Infiniti’s first use of the corporate-standard CVT unit. As CVT applications go this was one of the better ones we’ve tested. The ever-present rubber-band feel from lower-powered models was less noticeable on the burlier JX. Infiniti has done its fair share of fiddling with this belt-driven unit, which explains the smoother driving character.
Where the brand’s tweaks didn’t pay off, however, was in the manual mode. Frankly, it was just as useless as every other CVT manual mode we’ve tested, with its simulated shift points coming across as a poor impression of a true automatic transmission. Even when the drive mode was switched to Sport, which quickens “shift times,” the effect is still sub-par, with the engine remaining artificially high in the rev range. Keeping this transmission in full-auto mode is the smart play.
The JX’s ride and steering have a lot in common with the larger, plush QX. This is a soft-riding, comfortable suspension. It soaked up Charleston’s excuse for potholes quite nicely, although there’s a bit more impact noise transmitted to the cabin than we’d originally expected. Once again, we’d say this is a case of large wheels (twenty-inchers in this case) adding a bit of a ruckus to an otherwise quiet ride. We’d be quite happy with the eighteens, thank you very much.
Driven civilly, the JX’s handling is completely inoffensive. Push it a bit through the turns, though, and it doesn’t hesitate to roll. There’s just not a lot of lateral damping going on here. The same goes for fore and aft movement where aggressive throttle inputs can result in a bit too much squatting and diving. Perhaps the biggest issue is that the JX’s handling doesn’t inspire confidence, as it just feels a bit out of sorts when put in any dynamic handling situation. Still, if ride comfort is your number one concern, this is the way to go.
As with the suspension, the steering didn’t really prioritize dynamic behavior. Our partner during our drive called it “kind of vague,” which is a pretty solid assessment. There’s just not a lot of feedback coming through the leather-wrapped wheel. There’s also not a great deal of weight either, although we found this less of an issue. It’s not an overboosted tiller but it’s a pretty easy vehicle to manage with one hand on the wheel.
If you are looking to spend $40,000 to $50,000, there are worse choices than the Infiniti JX. If you value being involved in the driving experience though, then plan on looking elsewhere. Built to the standards of the luxurious and popular QX, and for the same breed of shopper (albeit one with a smaller budget), this is one crossover that will impress the high-end suburban set.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
The 2012 Infiniti EX35 is here at Parkway Infiniti
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Infiniti has fast first hybrid
Here's an intriguing fact: The Infiniti M luxury sedan that's listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for its acceleration prowess is the same M that has the best fuel economy rating of the lineup.
It's because the Guinness record holder is the new-for-2012 M35 Hybrid, which pairs a gasoline V-6 to an electric motor and lithium ion battery pack and manages the power through a seven-speed automatic transmission. There's no continuously variable transmission (CVT) here.
The M35h's combination powerplant can move the more than 4,100-pound, four-door car from standstill to 60 miles per hour in 6.1 seconds while pushing passengers' bodies firmly into the seatbacks.
This figure, provided by Infiniti, is akin to the performance of a new Chevrolet Camaro with V-6.
Yet, the M35h's federal government fuel economy rating of 27 miles per gallon in city driving and 32 mpg on the highway is the highest of all the M models. For example, the base 2012 M37 with V-6 and no electric assist is rated at 18/26 mpg.
But even with today's gasoline prices that top $3.90 a gallon, it would take M35 Hybrid drivers a while to recoup via gasoline savings the $6,000 premium that the hybrid model costs over a non-hybrid M37.
And there are other hybrids, even luxury hybrids, that have lower starting prices than the M35h's $54,595. They also have higher fuel economy, though not the record-breaking acceleration.
For instance, the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid mid-size sedan, which has a starting retail price of $35,630 is rated by the federal government at 41/36 mpg. The MKZ is a gasoline-electric hybrid with a four-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor and so doesn't have the power of the M.
The 2012 Lexus HS is a compact, luxury, hybrid sedan with a retail starting price of $37,905 and fuel efficiency rating of 35/34 mpg. The HS is powered by a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor.
The M35h is the first hybrid for Infiniti, and the brand didn't stray from what it's known for - performance and luxury.
But the test M35h seemed as much a showcase for technology as it did for showing that a hybrid can be fast and exhilarating.
Much of the M35h's technology, including the navigation system with voice recognition and on-board Zagat restaurant ratings, was optional and helped push the final sticker price to more than $67,000.
But it made an indelible impression of a car filled with so many electronic bits that it just might drive itself one day.
Note: To keep from being overwhelmed, it's best for a driver new to an option-packed M35h to take a deep breath and learn the different driver aides one by one. Example: The optional lane departure warning gives one kind of audible warning if the car starts to drift from its lane.
Another audible warning, standard on the car, arises when the M35h is in all-electric mode, because otherwise it's a silent vehicle that pedestrians might not notice. Infiniti was the first to put this pedestrian-alerting system on a car. Federal government officials have been debating whether to require audible alerts on all cars that have an electric mode.
The M hybrid system eschews a torque converter and instead uses a wet clutch and a dry clutch to manage the power from the 302-horsepower, 3.5-liter, double overhead cam V-6 and the 67-horsepower electric motor.
Drivers don't see or operate the clutches. The clutches work automatically to decouple the engine from the transmission at stops, so fuel is saved at stoplights, and allow the M35h to travel up to 62 mph on electric power alone.
It also can stay in electric mode for 1.2 miles, which is longer than many other hybrids.
The M35h judiciously monitors battery reserves and goes right to gasoline-power-only when necessary.
The test M35h required careful throttle control at startup, because the car was eager to zoom forcefully forward in electric mode from a stop.
This affected the test drive and brought an average of just 27.6 mpg in travel that was 70 percent in city traffic.
An M35h hallmark is the lack of a CVT. Other hybrids have had CVTs because these transmissions can maximize fuel economy. But they are not the top choice for acceleration.
Unfortunately, when the V-6 power would join in, there often was noticeable roughness in the test car. It was not the seamless transition that some hybrids deliver.
As is typical in hybrids, the brakes on the M35h had an artificial feel and didn't operate with a pure linear response as the brake pedal was pressed. This is due to the car's regenerative braking that captures energy and recharges the battery pack as the car is braking.
The M35h is a handsome sedan with stylish wheels and regular, not low-rolling resistance, tires. The tester had optional, large, 18-inch tires, which conveyed a good amount of road noise.
The M35h had a substantial, solid feel, and while the battery pack adds weight to the car vs. the M37, the hybrid feels well-balanced on twisty mountain roads. The only exterior clue that the car is a hybrid is the word "hybrid" on two fenders and the little "h" next to M35 on the trunk lid.
The interior has the luxurious atmosphere of all M cars, and control buttons on the dashboard are large, with good tactile feedback. Fit and finish on the tester was excellent.
Trunk space measures 11.3 cubic feet, down from the 14.9 cubic feet of a non-hybrid M37 because the battery pack takes up some trunk space.
http://bit.ly/GZxftzMonday, April 2, 2012
Enjoy the 2012 Infiniti G37 Convertible at Parkway Infiniti
Friday, March 30, 2012
We would like to thank this customer for their great review and recommendation
"I have to say that I had a great experience with their service from the sales manger Michael and the rest of the team Jeff, David (Store manager) & Steve in finance. They're friendly, helpful, fun and great people. I highly recommend."
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Visit Parkway Infiniti today and experience the 2012 Infiniti M35h
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Infiniti Bringing LE Electric Concept Car to New York
Infiniti will reveal an all-electric concept car to the New York auto show, according to The Detroit Bureau. Unlike the Emerg-E concept plug-in hybrid shown in Geneva, the Infiniti LE will reportedly be a battery-powered sedan that shares its mechanical components with the Nissan Leaf.
Last September, Infiniti released a sketch that was said to preview an all-electric car that would bow in 2014. An Infiniti spokesman confirmed that the company would bring an electric concept car to the New York show, but couldn’t provide any more information.
The Detroit Bureau suggests that the LE concept car shown in New York will be very close to the production model’s final design, with styling influenced by the G sedan and coupe models, as well as the new JX crossover. The electric car will be more focused on luxury and performance than the eco-friendly Nissan Leaf.
The concept car’s powertrain will reportedly be shared with that of the Nissan Leaf, although the Infiniti could have a larger battery to improve driving range and acceleration. The Nissan Leaf has an 80-kW electric motor that and a 24-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Both the 2013 Leaf and the Infiniti concept will receive a new 6.6-kW on-board charging system, which can cut battery charging times by half.
Reports suggest the 2013 Nissan Leaf will receive its own set of upgrades, including leather upholstery, darker interior trim, and a more efficient heater than can improve driving range. It’s almost certain that the upgraded heater would be present in Infiniti’s electric car, which should go on sale in 2014.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Enjoy impressive pre-owned specials at Parkway Infiniti
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
2012 Infiniti FX35 luxury crossover as good as any car in its class
Options for the FX35 include a Premium package including aluminum roof rails, driver seat memory, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, a 360-degree parking-camera system, front and rear parking sensors, a hard-drive navigation system with real-time traffic and weather, a Zagat restaurant guide, a larger touchscreen display, voice-activated controls, expanded digital music storage and Bluetooth streaming audio. The Deluxe Touring package provides 20-inch wheels, quilted leather seating, ventilated front seats, maple wood trim and a cargo cover.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Enjoy the 2012 Infiniti G25 here at Parkway Infiniti
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Read-e or not: Infiniti’s Emerg-E makes its long awaited debut in Geneva
After months of build-up, Infiniti's Emerg-E concept makes its debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.
We’ve brought you a lot of news on the oh-so-gorgeous range-extended sporty concept from Infiniti. From the car’s initial tease, to its leaked patent renders, to yesterdays prematurely released official images, the Emerg-E concept has been gathering a lot of hype ever since it was announced. Riding that momentum all the way to the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the Japanese luxury automaker finally had a chance to show off the car today — and needless to say, it’s been quite sensation in Switzerland.
Since we’ve had a chance to speculate and dissect the Emerg-E over the months, we’re going to focus on two aspect of the Emerg-E that haven’t been quite clear – its engine and its overall range.
Infiniti’s Emerg-E concept packs a 402 horsepower, mid-engined, twin motor. According to Infiniti, the electric sports car is able to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in an astonishing four seconds – and can reach 0 to 130 mph in “single [and] seamless 30 second burst.”
In addition to its sex-e numbers, the Emerge-E will surely appease green car enthusiasts. It carries a range of over 30-miles while emitting zero emissions in electric mode. When more range is required — and the range-extending gasoline engine is used in conjunction with its twin electric motors – the Emerg-E produces a CO2 output of only 55g/km.
“It is elegant yet dynamic, and has graceful power,” said Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura. “‘Mid-ship cars are usually less refined, but the body of INFINITI EMERG-E is like silk wrapping over the wheels.” We have to agree.
There is no denying that what we have seen thus far from Infiniti has us clearly impressed. The overall message echoing from the Emerg-E — concept or not — is Infiniti’s clear desire to push both performance-inspired and sustainable sports car to the forefront of the growing electric car market. Even though the Emerg-E itself lies somewhere in between a hybrid electric and plug-in electric, there is no denying the cars exciting technological features and beautiful silky-smooth design.
Infiniti says the Emerg-E is a glimpse into the company’s automotive future. If this is true, consider us read-e.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Enjoy great new vehicle specials at Parkway Infiniti
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Infiniti EMERG-E: An Electrifying New Take On The Sports Car
Infiniti EMERG-E is physical proof of Infiniti's intention to produce a bold halo model befitting the brand's promise of Inspired Performance, and also signals an array of exciting new technologies that the brand will adopt in its quest to build dramatic and sustainable high performance cars. Infiniti EMERG-E also provides a fresh expression of Infiniti's design language applied to a high performance, mid-ship sports car for the first time.
Infiniti EMERG-E is also significant for being the first Infiniti that has been developed in Europe. More than that, its advanced technology deliberately draws on the knowledge of suppliers beyond Infiniti's usual base in the quest to uncover the most innovative hardware and the deepest knowledge base. That quest has seen Infiniti become a part of the UK government's Technology Strategy Board initiative, whose aim is to speed the arrival of low carbon vehicles to our roads.
Infiniti EMERG-E is the ultimate expression of Infiniti's inspired performance. This 402bhp (300kW) mid-engined, twin motor, electric motors-powered sports car is capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in just four seconds – and from zero to 130 mph in a single, seamless 30-second burst. Yet it also operates as exciting, zero emission urban transport over a 30-mile range. And when the range-extender gasoline engine functions in concert with its twin electric motors, it produces a CO2 output of only 55g/km (NEDC cycle).
Within its compact 175.7-inch length the two-seater Infiniti EMERG-E contains a pair of electric motors, a lithium-ion battery pack, four inverters, a three-cylinder range-extending internal combustion engine and a gasoline tank. All this is efficiently wrapped within highly aerodynamic, light bodywork characterized by a design fluency that could only come from Infiniti.
"It is elegant yet dynamic, and has graceful power," said Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura. "'Mid-ship cars are usually less refined, but the body of Infiniti EMERG-E is like silk wrapping over the wheels."
Monday, March 5, 2012
Great special offers are here at Parkway Infiniti
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
The 2012 Infiniti EX35 is here at Parkway Infiniti
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Infiniti Emerg-E hybrid is a super car
One of the stars of next month's 2012 Geneva motor show has broken cover - at least in digital form.
Dull grey, low resolution computer generated sketches of the upcoming new Infiniti "advanced sports concept" have swirled around the internet, apparently spoiling a teaser campaign that the aspirational Japanese luxury brand kicked off last month for what is shaping up to be its most radical motor show car.
In January Infiniti - which will return to Australia later this year to challenge the likes of BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus - released a handful of images showing various design details of the car that will be called Emerg-E, while being careful not to reveal the whole car.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Visit Parkway Infiniti and drive away in the 2012 Infiniti FX50 today
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
2013 Infiniti JX Crossover enters production in the United States
According to the car manufacturer, the Infiniti JX, will go on sale as a 2013 model year and the crossover will be assembled at the Smyrna vehicle assembly plant in Tennessee, United States. The new Infiniti JX is coming with a backup collision intervention system which is using sensors in its rear part to detect potential obstacles when the vehicle is being backed out of a parking space and the brakes are automatically applied in order to avoid a potential impact.
Under the hood, the 2013 Infiniti JX is coming with a 3.5 liter DOHC V6 engine which is developing a total output of 265 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and it has a peak torque of 4,400 rpm. The engine is mated to a sport-tuned CVT (continuously variable transmission) which is helping the crossover to achieve 21 mpg in the front-wheel drive and 20 mph in the all-wheel drive models.
“We expect the inspired design and quality craftsmanship built into every new Infiniti model that rolls off the Smyrna production lines will deliver inspired performance that is second to none”, said the Smyrna manufacturing vice president, Decherd Susan Brennan.
The all-new 2013 Infiniti JX, with its seven seats, will go on sale starting from March this year, and the crossover will have a starting price of $40,450 for the front-wheel drive and $41,550 for the all-wheel drive models.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Experience the 2012 Infiniti FX35 at Parkway Infiniti
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
2012 Infiniti QX56 proves SUVs can be comfortable, luxurious
There aren't many big SUVs I would want to drive daily, but a week with my family in the 2012 Infiniti QX56 might have changed my mind.
I can definitively say that I would like to ride around in it as a passenger every day; seating seven or eight people, it's cush and totally luxurious. As it should be: Padded with plenty of extras, my four-wheel-drive test vehicle came priced at an exorbitant $75,340. I may very well have to choose between this opulent, luxurious SUV and sending my kids to college. College is overrated, don't you think? My zoology degree is doing nothing for me.
The QX56 manages to quell the myth that all SUVs are trucky and rugged. Instead, this beauty seeps comfort and luxury from every pore. Its private-jet-inspired interior is draped in gently gathered, buttery-soft leather, with all the extras that even the prissiest prima donnas among us would love. My favorites? Heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel that's just as comforting as warming my hands on a cup of cocoa.
Little has changed between the 2011 and 2012 QX; see the two compared at Cars.com.
Exterior
The QX looks a little like a guy I saw at the airport the other day who was trying to squeeze in a few too many trends. (Really? Black, skinny emo jeans, a handlebar mustache and a Mohawk? Choose one trend and rock it.) The QX has just a little too much going on for my taste. I'd take away those blingy chrome gills on the front fenders to clean it up a little.
The QX is a huge SUV (6.3 inches longer than a 2012 GMC Yukon Denali), but you don't really notice its full size until you try to park it in a garage space normally reserved for your small family sedan. Despite its grandiose size, the QX is remarkably easy to maneuver through your daily driving life thanks to its standard 360-degree Around View Monitor and a front and rear sonar system. In a vehicle this size, you're normally left blindly creeping forward in a parking space or garage until you oh so gently bump into something, letting you know you've pulled all the way forward. (The kids won't notice that little dent in their plastic wagon, right?) In the QX56, you can switch on a front-view camera that shows you just how close you are to the object in front of you, a side-view camera showing you the side of the car and the curb as you're trying to parallel park, or a 360-degree view showing you a picture as if from above the car. Audio park assist adds to the ease when parking.
Of course, the QX's large size does come with some downfalls. Mainly, getting in and out of this vehicle can be challenging for those of us under 6 feet tall. Despite the standard running boards, my daughter managed to get a huge, filthy smudge on her "fancy" dress and white tights while getting into the QX56 on the way to her piano recital. Of course, the dirt, ice and sludge that build up on the underside of cars in the Denver area in the winter doesn't help this situation at all.
Family-friendly features While the wide, flat seats in the QX56 are awesome for installing an array of odd-sized child-safety seats, they're not awesome for holding smaller drivers and passengers in place during the slight body roll that happens in such a large SUV. I didn't like sliding from one side of my seat to the other and then back again around every curve. As it turns out, bolstered seats have a purpose besides looking sporty.
In a market full of hard-to-access third rows, the QX56 excels. The second row captain's chairs fold and tumble easily using either a hand lever on the seat itself or, better yet, a button on the dashboard. This is great news. Now, trying to load kids while being pressured to get through the carpool lane quickly, I can press this button to tumble the second row forward from the comfort of my heated driver's seat so all the kids can climb into the "way back." The kids who are climbing into the second row can then easily press the captain's chair back into place and climb in. And when I say "easily," I mean it. Even my 7-year-old stepdaughter can do it by herself.
To go from hauling kids to hauling stuff and back again, the power-operated split third row folds flat via a button in the cargo area. Ahh -- no seats to remove, no seats to fight with, no numbered tabs to pull. (Step 1: pull this. Step 2: fold that. Step 3: give up.) Just easy, simple seats that fold. Ingenious.
What's not so ingenious is the odd placement of the side mirror adjustment lever: below the dash in front of the driver's left knee. Unless you're completely disproportionate, a driver of any size would have to bend forward and down to adjust the side mirror, guessing for proper placement, then sit back in the seat and hope they got it right. Nope? Try again.
Legroom in the second row is expansive while leaving enough legroom in the third row to accommodate kids of all sizes, or even average-sized adults. There are nine cupholders and four bottleholders scattered throughout all three rows, ensuring that every passenger can have his or her coffee and drink it, too.
IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT
Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Galore
Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Galore
SENSE AND STYLE
Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Excellent
Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove-On): Good Times
Behind the Wheel While some may enjoy the perception of safety they feel when driving a large SUV that can plow over anything and everything it may encounter, I found the QX56 to have some disconnection from the road. Its driving quality was refined, but the ride felt floaty. I had to simply trust that it was doing what it was supposed to while driving over icy roads; I was so far away from having any direct road feedback.
Acceleration in the QX, which sports a 5.6-liter V-8 engine with 400 horsepower, is light and easy, but moving such a behemoth that quickly comes at a cost. In this case, it's fuel consumption: The QX56 gets an EPA-estimated 14/20 mpg city/highway with either rear- or four-wheel drive. Ouch.
Safety
The 2012 Infiniti QX56 hasn't been crash-tested. (Full-size SUVs seldom are.) It features driver and passenger front airbags and seat-mounted side-impact airbags, as well as standard side curtain airbags for all three rows of passengers. As required of all 2012 and later models, the QX includes antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system. Hill start assist is also standard.
The lower anchor Latch points in the second row captain's chairs are nicely stowed in the seat bight and accessible via a slit in the seat bottom. The flat seat bottoms and wide, reclining captain's chairs make it easy to fit a child-safety seat of any shape or size. This feature is also helpful for accommodating booster seats of any width, with enough leftover space for kids to reach down and access their own seat belt buckle. For kids in booster seats, the seat belt buckle receptors are on stable bases, making it very easy for them to buckle up independently in the second row.
The third-row seats have flimsy seat belt buckles on nylon bases requiring much more advanced dexterity to buckle up. The seat belts also have highly sensitive automatic locking retractors, causing my girls (ages 7, 9 and 11) to "lock" their belts almost every time while buckling up in the third row. While the older two understood how to let the seat belt retract all the way back in before trying to pull it out more slowly, this concept was lost on my youngest. On more than one occasion, I had to climb into the third row through the cargo area to help out. I'd reserve these seats for the "big kids" in the family.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Enjoy impressive pre-owned vehicles at Parkway Infiniti
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)