A second model joins Infiniti's new performance line-up, IPL.
Automotive executives aren’t prone to handing out compliments to the competition, but when the subject turns to the Infiniti G-Series, you’re almost certain to hear kind words.
There’s little doubt that the striking design of the latest Infiniti entry-line has done a lot to revitalize the brand especially as Nissan’s luxury division has added more variants, including a convertible and the sporty G37 Coupe.
But sporty really does bring to mind the idea of performance, something the G-Series needed a bit more of, Infiniti officials admitted, over the summer, as they pulled the wraps off the first IPL model. Short for Infiniti Performance Line, it debuted on the G37 Coupe.
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And, at the time, Infiniti General Manager Ben Poore broadly hinted, “More to come. You’ll see IPL (variants) across the Infiniti line-up…where appropriate.”
The maker is keeping its word, introducing the second model to the brand-within-a-brand in the form of the new G37 Convertible IPL.
As with the coupe, the G37 Convertible IPL starts with a more aggressive new front fascia with integrated fog lamps and sportier side sills, as well as a distinctive rear spoiler and chrome exhaust tips. The 2011 IPL also rides on 19-inch split 7-spoke graphite-finish wheels, shod with Bridgestone Potenza tires.
Inside, there are red-stitched sport front seats and steering wheel. And the 2011 IPL uses aluminum pedals and footrest. The G-Coupe is loaded with features that include the Infiniti-Bose Studio on Wheels audio system, a large harddrive storage system and navigation with real-time traffic and weather. There are both a rear view sonar system and rear camera, and a moonroof also comes standard.
We’re going to have to wait for more details on the performance side, however. In the G-Coupe, a 3.7-liter VQ V6 makes 348 horsepower, 18 more than the stock 2-door, and 276 lb-ft of torque. The engine was tuned to deliver a linear acceleration curve – as well as a solid launch feel and more aggressive exhaust note, according to Infiniti.
How much? Again, we’ll have to wait. But Infiniti boss Poore stressed that the goal is to avoid the sometimes outrageous price hikes common with other luxurious performance arms. So, perhaps somewhere under $50,000 is a reasonable expectation.