The all-new 2008 Infiniti EX coupe crossover, revealed this week at the 2007 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, will form part of a four model premium range that will be launched across Europe starting from Autumn 2008.

The Infiniti EX is a new addition to the global Infiniti range. To be badged EX35 when it goes on sale in the US at the end of this year, this all-wheel drive crossover slots in below the iconic FX and offers an exceptional combination of seductive design, elegant interior and advanced technology systems. These include the world production car debut of the advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) system, which utilizes four small cameras to give the driver a “top-down view” of the outside of the vehicle while parking. The new EX35 also becomes the second Infiniti production vehicle, following the Autumn introduction in the US of the 2008 Infiniti M-series, to offer the new Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system, and the first to feature “Scratch Shield,” a special “self-healing” clearcoat paint. Launch timing of these technologies in Europe is to be confirmed.

Coupe-Inspired Exterior

Designed by the Infiniti design centre in Japan, the EX35’s sculpted elegance should have a timeless appeal. Sleek lines portray speed, grace and finesse combining the look and feel of a luxury coupe with the elevated cabin of a 4x4.

The sporty proportions include a long hood, short front and rear overhangs, rearward cabin and smooth coupe-like roofline arching over the windows to the C-pillars.

“The Infiniti EX35 is the perfect fusion of a luxury coupe and a sporty 4x4,” said Jim Wright, Vice President Infiniti Europe.

The Infiniti EX35 has a length of 4631mm and a width of 1803mm making it maneuverable in town. While a height of 1589mm gives it a more dynamic stance and a lower centre of gravity than most other 4x4s.

EX35’s exterior includes many signature Infiniti touches, including a double-arch grille, large L-shaped headlights with available Bi-Xenon Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), integrated fog lights, distinctive LED taillights and “dynamic arch” profile. Other exterior features include a high-mounted rear hatchback spoiler, chrome-finished dual exhaust pipes, an available power tilt/sliding sunroof with one-touch activation and optional roof rails and crossbars. The EX35 also features a standard puddle lamp integrated in the driver’s side door mirror as part of the Hospitality Lighting Concept.

Eight exterior colors will be offered including two shades new to the model.

One of the unique features of the new Infiniti EX35 is the special “Scratch Shield,” a special “self-healing” clearcoat paint, which is designed to maintain its gloss-level over time. The paint repairs fine scratches, such as fingernail scratches under door handles, restoring the EX35’s surface close to the original state. The process, which takes anywhere from one day to one week (depending on the surrounding temperature and the depth of the scratch), is accomplished through the use of a special highly elastic resin. This resin is combined with a conventional clearcoat to increase the paint’s flexibility and strength by raising the resin density.

Elegant Interior Design

Like all Infiniti vehicles, the EX35 is conceived to offer an invigorating and engaging interior environment. And one that is both indulgent and inspiring.

The driver-focused “wave-inspired” cabin layout features an Infiniti signature “double-wave” instrument panel, easy-to-read high-contrast gauges with white-and-violet illumination and hospitality lighting with a pin LED light mounted over the center console and Infiniti-signature analog clock.

The instrument panel also features a 7-inch color display with Infiniti controller for the trip computer and additional vehicle information, including the available Infiniti Hard Disk based Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for music storage and playback.

Other technology systems include available Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System and standard Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition. Available technology features include RearView Camera (available separately, or as part of the Around View Monitor system), front and rear parking sensors, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Bose® Premium Audio System with 11 speakers including 2 subwoofers, 6CD in-dash changer and iPod® connectivity.

The interior is offered with cloth or leather-upholstered seating surfaces, available in four different colour concepts, reflecting Infiniti’s desire to offer the customer a high level of personalisation. A special Black Lacquer trim comes standard on the center console, with optional genuine Maple wood trim for the centre

An 8-way power driver’s Seat with 2-way manual lumbar support is standard, along with a 4-way power passenger’s seat. A driver’s Seat memory system is also offered, along with available heated front seats and 8-way power front passenger’s seat. Also available is an unusual 60/40 split power-folding 2nd row Seat (operated from the front or hatch area) making it easier to get the best out of the interior space.

"The EX35’s interior is all about driving pleasure and passenger comfort,” said Wright. “Like the exterior, it offers a coupe-like feel but surprising versatility – ideal for today’s active lifestyles. Its design is elegant and made using beautiful materials that indulge as well as calm. ”

Advanced Platform and Powertrain

Under the EX35’s dramatic body is an equally advanced platform and powertrain based on the latest Infiniti performance technology. Its advanced FR-L platform provides the same high levels of handling precision and balance as it does for the Infiniti M, FX and G Coupe and Saloon.

Every 2008 US-specification Infiniti EX35 comes as standard with the fourth-generation VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine (shared with the new G35 Saloon), rated at 290-plus horsepower (estimated) and 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, DS sport mode with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM), and Adaptive Shift Control.

The engine block features ladder frame construction, variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), asymmetric piston skirts, twin knock sensors and Iridium spark plugs. Its symmetric twin ram air intake system helps reduce airflow resistance, while the dual exhaust system has been designed with equal length exhaust manifolds and reduced muffler exhaust pressure help improve engine breathing.

Both are tuned to create authoritative harmonies, helping enhance driving pleasure, an exciting engine sound and expected improvements in emissions and fuel economy (versus the previous generation VQ engine).

The fourth-generation VQ engine design also includes a long list of advanced systems found on the previous design – including a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), a "noiseless" timing chain for quiet operation, an electronically controlled "drive-by-wire" throttle system, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, and molybdenum coated lightweight pistons.

Every Infiniti EX35 utilizes a subframe-mounted independent front double-wishbone suspension with aluminum-alloy upper and lower links, high-performance dual-flow pass shock absorbers and anti-roll bar. The rear suspension is an independent multi-link design with aluminum-alloy upper and lower links and axle housing, high-performance dual-flow pass shock absorbers and anti-roll bar.

Steering is provided by a speed-sensitive power-assisted steering system with power-assisted front and rear discs (vented front) and standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Also standard is Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), while an advanced Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with Preview Braking is optionally available.

Available wheel and tire combinations include an 18-inch 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 225/55R18 tires.

EX35 features Infiniti’s ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system, which is also utilized on the 2008 M, FX and G Saloon.
The system utilizes an active torque distribution management system with an active centre clutch designed for smooth starts and better traction and maneuverability on snowy and wet roads than conventional all-wheel drive systems, plus minimal compromise of rear-wheel drive performance characteristics on dry roads.

Advanced New Technology

The EX35’s advanced technology design is highlighted by one system that is the first production version available in the US and Europe: the Infiniti Around View Monitor.

It utilizes small front, side and rear-mounted cameras to project an all-around view of potential objects on every side of the vehicle – helping reduce blind spots when parking.

“Conventional mirrors, no matter how carefully you use them, just can’t provide a view around the car that the Around View Monitor’s four-camera system does,” said Wright. “Rear bumper parking sensors help detect objects behind a car, but again they can’t give the view of the space around the vehicle that the AVM does.”

Infiniti EX35 European specification

The information given above relates to the US market EX35. Specifications of the European version will be confirmed closer to the on sale date.

In terms of positioning, it is difficult to find any direct rivals for the EX being arguably the first of a new wave of coupe crossovers. But looking at other cars available currently, the EX might be lined up against rivals as diverse as the BMW X3 3.0si and Audi A4 3.2FSI quattro avant.

Infiniti Europe

The EX will get its first European showing at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. The brand will be launched across Europe, city by city, starting in the autumn of 2008 – a process that will take two years. Infiniti Europe will reveal more details of its launch schedule towards the end of 2007.

Four models will be available in Europe from launch. These will include the G saloon, the G coupe, the EX as detailed above, and a successor to the iconic FX to be unveiled next year. A replacement for the M-series will join the European range early in the next decade along with the option, on the M-, EX- and FX-series, of a high performance V6 diesel.

Superior customer service will be as important to Infiniti as the product. This starts with the retail network, all of which will employ the new Infiniti Retail Design Environment Initiative (IREDI) that has a look and feel more akin to a luxury designer hotel than a car showroom, and continues with Infiniti’s Total Ownership Experience (TOE) philosophy that covers all contacts the customer will have with the brand.

Said Wright: “The launch of a premium car brand in Europe is a rare and special event. Infiniti will have the simple philosophy of offering the independently minded customer a new alternative of vibrant product teamed with excellent service. The cars are all elegantly designed, comprehensively equipped and aimed at the enthusiast. But they are only half the story. Effortless ownership will be equally important as you will discover closer to the launch.”

The all-new 2008 Infiniti EX35, the latest addition to the Infiniti lineup, will make its world production debut Aug. 18 at the 57th annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The EX 35 is scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in late December 2007.

The Infiniti EX35 offers an exceptional combination of seductive design, elegant interior and advanced technology systems -- including the North American debut of the advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) system, which utilizes four small cameras to give the driver a "top-down view" of the outside of the vehicle while parking. The new EX35 also offers Infiniti's new Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system and "Scratch Shield," a special "self- healing" clearcoat paint.

Along with the EX35, Infiniti will also unveil the new 2008 Infiniti M sport sedan, which features extensive exterior and interior enhancements, as well as the addition of a new all-wheel drive V8 M45x. The new model, designated M45x, joins the M35x to provide buyers with two choices in all- climate AWD performance.

Other enhancements to the 2008 Infiniti M include the production debut of Infiniti's newest safety technology, the Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system. In addition, previous M Sport models have been replaced by an available Sport Package, which includes unique exterior and interior styling, Rear Active Steer (RAS) and 19-inch sport wheels and tires.

In related activities, Infiniti is sponsoring a special exhibit, "The Infiniti Gallery of Design," a showcase of important designs from a variety of disciplines including architecture, jewelry, fashion and home. Hearst Magazines is coordinating the exhibit, titled "Form Follows Emotion." Infiniti is also sponsor of the 2007 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Media Center.

2008 Infiniti M Receives Major Upgrades

Just two years after its highly successful introduction, the Infiniti M receives major upgrades for 2008 that include the first-ever availability of Infiniti's intelligent ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system on the 4.5-liter V8-powered M45. The new model, designated M45x, joins the M35x to provide buyers with two choices in all-climate AWD performance.

Other enhancements for 2008 include revised interior and exterior styling and added luxury amenities and technologies, including the production debut of Infiniti's newest safety technology, the Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system.

The exterior enhancements for 2008 include revised front and rear fascia, grille, rear fender panels, rear decklid and taillight design, new chrome accents and new 18-inch and 19-inch sport aluminum-alloy wheels.

Inside, the new 2008 Infiniti M includes an upgraded Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with touch-screen, 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for digital music storage and playback and available XM NavTraffic (requires active XM subscription, sold separately), as well as new white instrument panel lighting with violet accents and white and violet interior lighting, standard XMâ Satellite Radio (requires XM subscription, sold separately) and a revised Stone colored interior.

Also for 2008, the previous M35 and M45 Sport models have been replaced by an available Sport Package, which includes significant visual differentiation from non-Sport Package models – including unique exterior and interior styling, Rear Active Steer (RAS) and 19-inch sport wheels and tires.

In addition to the advanced navigation system, other available M technology includes Bluetooth? Hands-free Phone System, an Infiniti Information Display with 7-inch LCD screen and easy-to-use controls, Infiniti voice recognition and RearView Monitor.

"The Infiniti M is an expression of power, refinement, technology and design – all the things that make Infiniti owners' hearts pound," said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti. "The M captures the soul of the Infiniti brand, expressing it in invigorating, forward thinking ways."

Refined Exterior and Interior Designs For 2008

From a design standpoint, the Infiniti M optimizes both luxury and sport styling to create a dynamic visual appeal. The revised exterior styling for 2008 includes a new front grille and bumpers, lower air intake, fog lamps and side sills. In the rear, the new M features revised fenders, taillights, deck lid and a new optional rear spoiler design. There are also new chrome bodyside accents. Sport Package–equipped models have greater visual differentiation than in previous years, including unique front and rear bumpers, headlight color and side sills.

What hasn't changed is how the M's expressive grille and crystal-look headlight clusters, which offer a luxurious appeal, while large 18- or 19-inch wheels and low profile tires, stable posture with wide track, and short overhangs contribute to the sportiness of the design.

The Infiniti M's long wheelbase and short overhangs provide a roomy interior and sporty exterior dimensions. Wide front and rear tracks add to handling stability, while the overall width enhances interior and trunk volume. Also featured are lightweight body components, including aluminum-alloy inner and outer door panels, hood and decklid panels.

"The M's low, aggressive hood line, which flows into the anchored shoulders and fluid roofline contribute to the sporty, powerful silhouette," said Igo. "There's a solid, muscular look to the design, fitting of its vibrant performance, yet a refined, high quality feel worthy of an Infiniti flagship."

The M's interior design engages the senses in invigorating ways, combining a driver-oriented cockpit with a graceful, Infiniti level of luxury and design detail.

For 2008, the M features a new interior look with new "Fine Vision" electroluminescent gauges, new "gear-like" rings on the instrument cluster meters, a revised center console, new aluminum trim surface texturing, new wood trim and door trim and a new full gray interior color. Sport Package-equipped models receive unique steering wheel and shift knob stitching, unique front Seat designs and aluminum-trimmed pedals.

For 2008, the interior also offers an upgraded Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with touch-screen, 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for digital music storage and playback and available XM NavTraffic (requires active XM subscription, sold separately).

These changes enhance the M's modern, intuitive interior feel and layout, which focuses on purposeful simplicity. Interior features include genuine Rosewood or aluminum trim, leather-appointed seats, "Fine Vision" electroluminescent gauges, climate controlled front seats, standard XM Satellite Radio (requires active XM subscription, sold separately) and available features such as heated power reclining rear seats and advanced Bose Studio Surround sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and 14 speakers including two personal speakers mounted in the shoulders of each front seat. The interior also offers an array of driver and passenger-oriented technology features, including the Infiniti Intelligent Key system with Push Button Start, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor and Intelligent Cruise Control.

Vibrant Performance with Available AWD and Rear Active Steer

When the Infiniti M went on sale as an all-new 2006 model it captured essential elements of both a luxury performance sedan and an award-winning sports sedan. Its performance is equally engaging in the V8-equipped M45 or V6-equipped M35.

The M45 continues to offer a powerful DOHC 4.5-liter V8, shared with the premium FX45. It is rated at 325 horsepower and 336 lb-ft of torque. The engine design includes titanium valves, modular cylinder heads, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons and super-silent single stage cam drive chain to help optimize performance. In addition, the VK45DE is outfitted with a variable length air induction system and Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) to enhance the engine's power delivery and operation efficiency.

The M35 utilizes an advanced DOHC 3.5-liter V6 rated at 275 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is part of the award-winning VQ engine series also found in the G35 and FX35, and includes aluminum-alloy block and heads and electronically controlled "drive-by-wire" throttle system. Both engines are mated to a standard 5-speed automatic transmission with performance shifter and manual shift mode with downshift rev matching.

Every Infiniti M utilizes an enhanced next-generation FM (Front Mid-ship) platform also used on the G35 Sedan, G37 Coupe and FX premium crossover SUV.

The refined FM platform positions the engine behind the front axle. This positioning results in an optimized front-to-rear weight balance, which factors in weight transfer during key handling maneuvers.

The M suspension is an independent double-wishbone design in front and multi-link independent system in the rear, along with front and rear stabilizer bars.

The Infiniti M's large diameter wheels and tires are positioned out near the corners of the vehicle, helping to further enhance handling and driving excitement. For 2008, the M features new split 5-spoke 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with titanium finish and new, unique split 5-spoke 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels for Sport Package-equipped models. Aggressive low-profile tires, sized 245/45VR18 and 245/40WR19 (Sport Package only), are standard.

The M also utilizes standard 4-wheel power-assisted vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The steering system is an electronically controlled vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design. Every Infiniti M also features Infiniti's advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS). VDC adjusts brake pressure and engine torque automatically in understeer, oversteer or slippery road surface situations, helping the driver keep the intended path.

For drivers seeking the enhanced all-climate performance of all-wheel drive, the M35x and M45x models feature the ATTESA E-TS™ (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system also utilized on FX45 and FX35 AWD. It uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically transfers optimum torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions.

The ATTESA E-TS system provides sports car-like handling and cornering capability due to optimum torque distribution between the front and rear wheels (50:50 up to 0:100). ATTESA E-TS also provides high starting traction performance and smooth, stable acceleration, especially in snow-covered or off-road situations with a 50:50 torque split at standing start. Combined with the vehicle's VDC system, each wheel receives the appropriate amount of torque when needed.

"We're proud to add the new M45x AWD model to the M lineup for 2008," said Igo. "It's ideal for areas of the country that experience inclimate weather conditions, as well as for drivers seeking the added handling and control benefits of all-wheel drive."

The handling and stability of the Infiniti M Sport models is further optimized by Infiniti's Rear Active Steer system. Unlike passive rear steering systems, this design features precise, electronic motor-driven control. This system helps improve the M Sport's handling performance by adjusting the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed.

The system's electronic control unit calculates the desired vehicle dynamics from a series of sensors, including vehicle speed and steering angle, and directs the system actuator to change rear geometry by moving both rear suspension lower links. The result is sports car-like agility, combined with luxury sedan stability and ride quality.

New Lane Departure Prevention System

Another major advancement for the 2008 Infiniti M is the availability of the advanced Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system. The LDP system makes its worldwide production debut on the 2008 M and the upcoming 2008 Infiniti EX35 luxury crossover SUV.

LDP takes Infiniti's existing Lane Departure Warning system (currently implemented on the FX and previously on the 2007 M) one step further by utilizing the Vehicle Dynamic Control to apply slight brake pressure to the wheels opposite the side of the lane departure direction to help prevent the M from inadvertently traveling out of its intended lane.

Like Lane Departure Warning, the LDP system uses a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle and calculate its position relative to lane markers and warn the driver of lane drift (pending lane change without use of the turn signal) with a visual display and audible buzzer. If the driver does not return the vehicle in the direction of the center of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver by using gentle control (generating part of the necessary yaw movement), using the VDC's brake actuator to control the brake pressure of each individual wheel to generate the intended movement.

"Infiniti extends it leadership position in offering the first Lane Departure Prevention system for production vehicles with the new M and the new Infiniti EX35," said Igo." More than 55 percent of fatal auto accidents in the United States are caused by lane departures, including single vehicle and head-on accidents. With the LDP system, Infiniti continues to advance vehicle safety technology."

Other safety features include an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage front supplemental air bags with Occupant Classification System and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags, 3-point ALR/ELR Seat belts (driver's Seat ELR only), front Seat belt adjustable upper anchors with pretensioners and load limiters, front Seat Active Head Restraints and available brake operated front pre-crash Seat belts, which tighten under emergency braking in anticipation of an evasive maneuver or crash.

Every 2008 M also includes Zone Body construction with energy-dispersing side structure, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren) child Seat anchorage system and Zone Body platform design with front and rear crumple zones.

Four Fully Equipped Models

For 2008, the Infiniti M is offered in four models: the M35 (V6 rear-wheel drive), M35x AWD (V6 all-wheel drive), M45 (V8 rear-wheel drive) and M45x (V8 all-wheel drive). The M35 and M45 are also offered with a comprehensive Sport Package with Rear Active Steer, unique suspension tuning, 19-inch wheels and tires, sport-bolstered and trimmed front seats, sport steering wheel, aluminum pedal accents and unique body styling.
Other option packages include the Technology Package, Advanced Technology Package, Premium Package, Wood Interior Trim (standard on RWD and AWD models, optional with Sport Package models), Xenon/AFS (M35x only, HID xenon headlights with Adaptive Front Lighting System are standard on all other M models) and Infiniti Mobile Entertainment Package.