Infiniti Essence Concept Makes Canadian Debut at Montreal International Auto
Show

Revered concept is glimpse of things to come for Infiniti

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Jan. 14 /CNW/ - The essence of the Infiniti Brand, distilled into one car and taken to the extremes - The Infiniti Essence Concept - made its Canadian debut at the Montreal International Auto Show today. A celebration of Infiniti's first 20 years as a creator of performance cars but equally, an inspiring exploration into the brand's future, Essence is the magnification of Infiniti's Inspired Performance.

"Essence emphasizes several key values of Infiniti design including Energetic Force, Seductive Luster and Spiritual Precision," said Wendy Durward , Director of Infiniti Canada . "The flowing wave profile, the razor-sharp line in the upper body and the rear section concave scoops, are all expressions of these design dimensions. They can be seen in Essence and in future Infiniti models as well."

All of Infiniti's existing design elements are enhanced with fresh design language. Infiniti's signature double-arch grille is set at an angle that suggests the car is about to leap forward. The signature Infiniti L-shaped head lights taper back on the fender forms, edged by a row of LEDs.

One of the most distinctive details is the trim around the side air vents. The simple yet elegant shape, finely finished in aluminum, is based on the "kanzashi," a hairpin used by women when wearing kimono. It is both functional and beautiful to look at. Other lines and details are inspired by the wide brush strokes of Japanese calligraphy.

The car is highly sculptural yet elegant. Muscular, yet graceful.

"On the inside, Essence promotes a sense of well-being, which is key to the Infiniti driving experience," said Durward. "The ergonomic interior is minimalist and focused on giving the driver a feeling of absolute control without being complicated or overwhelming. Essence is fitted with Infiniti's unique hybrid system offering strong performance while meeting environmental concerns for our next generation of luxury car."

A slim, electric motor with twice the torque of a conventional unit and two clutches are teamed with a 3.7-litre, turbocharged V6 gasoline engine that boasts 434 horsepower. In "power assist" mode the full 592 horsepower is unleashed with both gasoline and electric power working together.

Essence previews some of the next-generation safety features that will ensure Infiniti's remain among the safest vehicles on the road. Blind Spot Intervention and Back-up Collision Prevention warn drivers if other vehicles are in their intended path, and automatically intervene to prevent collisions.

These two new technologies, along with Distance Control Assist and Lane Departure Prevention, extend the safety shield all the way around the car.

Also, the team behind Essence re-established the historic ties between a carmaker and one of the best-known names in luxury goods - Louis Vuitton - resulting in three custom luggage pieces for Essence. A matched pair of briefcases sit atop a larger hard case. All are made in the new Damier Graphite canvas and feature sleekly integrated handles and an overall design in harmony with the car itself. In addition, a button on the key fob electrically opens the trunk lid, allowing the trunk floor to slide silently rearwards.

This car demonstrates the essence of Infiniti revealing its future among the world's most exclusive and vibrant car brands.

    
    Essence Overview

    -   A front-engine, two-seat, 592-horsepower, rear-wheel drive luxury
        coupe concept measuring 4720 mm (185 inches) long
    -   A preview of Infiniti's new gasoline/electric hybrid drivetrain -
        capable of high speeds when conditions allow, zero emissions where
        they don't
    -   Fresh design language to influence future production models
    -   New safety technology, including Back-up Collision Prevention
    -   Minimalist and intensely driver-focused interior
    -   "New luxury" meets traditional Japanese craftsmanship
    -   Custom designed Louis Vuitton fitted luggage to maximize trans-
        continental capability
    

For images and B-Roll of Essence visit: http://www.media.nissan.ca/newsroom.do?id=40&mid=40

A Celebration of 20 Years of Infiniti - The Infiniti G37 Anniversary Art Car

In 2009, Infiniti celebrated its 20th anniversary and to commemorate this milestone collaborated with its partners at Cirque du Soleil(R) to develop a truly one-of-a-kind artistic masterpiece.

For its Quebec-debut at the Montreal Auto Show, the Infiniti G37 Anniversary Art Car was revealed by its Montreal-based artist Heidi Taillefer . Inspired by Cirque du Soleil and Infiniti, the intricate precision and beauty of the design is a celebration of what Infiniti has achieved in the past 20 years. Underneath, the G Coupe is still just as exciting and fun-to-drive as ever.

The Infiniti Art Car will be displayed at several auto shows and special events across Canada this year and will later be auctioned off for charity.

For images of the Infiniti G37 Anniversary Art Car visit: http://www.media.nissan.ca/image-gallery.do?method=view&imageGalleryId=98&mid=5

2010 Infiniti G Family Line-up

After major upgrades to the power and transmission in 2009, Infiniti's G family of vehicles received a refreshed look for 2010, including revised exterior styling, enhanced interior treatment and upgraded technology features. Conveniences such as RearView Monitor, Rear Sonar System and Bluetooth are now standard on most trim levels. G Sedan is available in dealerships now with a starting base MSRP of $38,690 .

For images and specs of the entire G Family, visit: http://www.media.nissan.ca/newsroom.do?id=5&mid=5

ABOUT INFINITI

Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles designed to inspire at every turn, including the G37 sports coupe, convertible and sedan, M35/45 luxury performance sedan, EX personal luxury crossover, FX premium crossover SUV and the QX full-size luxury SUV. More information about Infiniti and the Total Ownership Experience(R) can be found at www.infiniti.ca.

For further information: Media Contacts: Didier Marsaud, Nissan Canada Inc., [phone], [email protected]; Alexandra Cygal, Cohn & Wolfe, [phone], [email protected]; Robert Lupien, Cohn & Wolfe, Montreal, [phone], poste 233, Cell: [phone], [email protected]