2011 Infiniti QX

(from Infiniti press release)

2011 Infiniti QX

It starts with a breathtaking presence, a calm strength derived of clean fluid
lines that attract and hold your attention. It continues with the highest level of
luxury, not just for the driver and front seat passenger, but all occupants –
world class, personalized control over their environments for passengers in
every seat in the house. Add in an exceptional driving experience provided by
a powerful yet efficient V8 engine design and available Hydraulic Body Motion
Control system. Then top it all off with intuitive functionality, which anticipates
and responds to the users’ needs and desires. Introducing the all-new 2011
Infiniti QX, the latest example of inspired design, performance, technology and
craftsmanship from Infiniti. Available in two models, the QX56 2WD and QX56
4WD, it is scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in summer
2010.

“Following closely on the introduction of the all-new 2011 Infiniti M, the 2011
Infiniti QX gives us an incredible presence in full-size performance luxury
vehicles – perfect for buyers seeking style, comfort, roominess and driving
exhilaration,” said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Business Unit. “Both the
new M and QX also offer a full range of available innovative technology,
including Blind Spot Warning and the QX’s advanced Hydraulic Body Motion
Control system.”

The second-generation Infiniti QX has been totally redesigned from the
platform up. Its new high-stiffness frame structure enhances ride comfort while
reducing noise, vibration and harshness. The new 5.6-liter V8 engine
combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti’s VVEL (Variable Valve Event
& Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) and 7speed
automatic transmission. With 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque,
the QX can handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing
capacity), while also offering more than 10% better fuel economy than the
previous generation QX.

Inside the distinctive QX body is an interior long on luxury, including standard
Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View™ Monitor and Bose® 2channel,
13-speaker Premium Audio System, and available perforated semi-
aniline leather seating and a dual 7-inch color monitor DVD system which
allows different sources to be played at the same time. The 2011 QX also
offers ample 1st and 2nd row roominess, as well as generous luggage space.

An All-New Exterior With A Breathtaking Presence
The 2011 Infiniti QX is conceived to attract and hold viewers’ attention,
conveying its underlying sense of power and strength. The design is dynamic,
its size capable of transporting eight adults and their belongings with spacious
elegance. The bold front chrome grille is flanked by automatic on/off bifunctional
xenon headlights with available headlight washers and integrated
front fog lights. Auto-leveling headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System

(AFS) are optionally available.

Other exterior features include LED taillights, heated, power-folding sideview
mirrors with integrated turn signals, courtesy lights and reverse tilt-down
feature, body color running boards, body color integrated front and rear splash
guards built into the wheel arches, roof rails, power sliding tinted glass
moonroof and a power rear liftgate.

The new QX features revised dimensions versus the previous generation –
1.4-inches longer, 1.1-inches wider and 3.8-inches lower in overall height. A
front underbody spoiler, rear liftgate spoiler and redesigned side mirrors help
provide improved aerodynamics of 0.37 Cd and zero lift. The QX’s strong
presence is accented by the powerful wheel and tire combinations – standard
20-inch and available 22-inch – and a palette of six distinctive exterior colors.

“The look is clearly Infiniti with its signature Infiniti grille, broad shoulders and
large greenhouse,” said Poore. “It’s rugged, sophisticated and completely
captivating.”

Power and Innovation Under the Skin
The 2011 Infiniti QX’s all-new body and frame are designed to provide
enhanced body stiffness and reduced vibration versus the previous QX design.

Structural changes include a new high-stiffness frame structure with enlarged
side rail section width, redesigned connecting structures between each
crossmember and side rails, an integrated rear hitch member, improved
stiffness of the cabin mounting points and a special rear body ring structure

around the tailgate.

“Customers will never be aware of the extensive efforts taken in the
development of the QX frame and body to reduce flex, rattles and squeaks –
they’ll just enjoy a quiet, comfortable ride that’s unexpected in a full-size
SUV,” added Poore. “The new platform can handle family adventures to
rugged terrain, without compromising its smooth ride for everyday, around-
town cruising.”

The second-generation Infiniti QX also offers new engine and transmission
designs – delivering, a combination of power, efficiency and refinement worthy
of the Infiniti name. The new 5.6-liter 32-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy V8
features Infiniti’s advanced VVEL (for Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology
and new Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) system.

The VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and
electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side to help improve
performance and response. Throttle response is enhanced by directly
controlling the intake valve, rather than using the traditional method of
controlling intake with the throttle valve. The VVEL system also offers
improved emissions and fuel efficiency (over non-VVEL designs) by
substantially reducing the intake resistance that occurs when the engine’s
throttle valve opening is narrowed and output is low. The new DIG™ system
provides better wide-open throttle performance and improved fuel economy
and emissions performance by reducing engine knock, improving combustion
stability and offering more precise injection control.

The engine is rated at 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, compared with
320 horsepower and 393 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2010 QX’s nonVVEL/
non-DIG™ V8. With a 25% increase in horsepower, the 2011 QX does
not sacrifice fuel economy, which increases by more than 10% versus the
2010 QX.

Also contributing to the enhanced fuel economy is the 2011 QX’s standard 7speed
automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and manual
shift mode with Downshift Rev Match.

Versus the 2010 QX’s 5-speed automatic, the new 7-speed transmission
boasts a wider range of gear ratios, a variable lockup torque converter, a new
improved shift schedule and a new automatic transmission fluid warmer
designed to reduce fuel consumption at start up.

The QX is offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, with the 4WD
model featuring Infiniti’s proven All-Mode 4WD? system with Auto, 4H, and 4L
modes. The system is designed to distribute torque to all four wheels when
road conditions warrant (up to 50 percent can go to the front wheels on
demand), helping to enhance traction.

All QX models also include Hill Start Assist. With Hill Start Assist, if a driver
stops on a slope and steps off the brake pedal, the system will keep the QX
stationary for a few seconds – with no roll back. This enables drivers to easily
switch from the brake pedal to the accelerator on steep inclines.

For the first time ever on an Infiniti vehicle, a new Hydraulic Body Motion
Control system is offered (available on both 2WD and 4WD models as part of
the Deluxe Touring Package, which also includes 22-inch wheels and tires and
a number of other features). The system helps reduce body lean while turning
for a more comfortable ride. Utilizing hydraulic cylinders located at the shock
absorbers (connected via cross piping and two accumulators), it adjusts roll
stiffness by allowing transfer of fluid between the left and right sides of the
vehicle through passive weight transfer during normal driving. It also helps
reduce bump shock by setting bounce and roll damping forces separately.

The QX’s suspension is an independent double-wishbone design front and
rear, with Dual-Flow Path® twin tube shock absorbers, stabilizer bars and an
automatic rear leveling system that seeks to maintain uniform ground
clearance and departure angle, even when towing or carrying cargo, by
automatically adjusting the air pressure in the system's air bladders.

Braking is provided by 4-wheel disc brakes (13.8-inch vented discs front and
rear) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force
Distribution (EBD). Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 2-wheel or 4-wheel
Active Brake Limited-Slip (ABLS) are standard on every QX56. Engine-speed
sensitive power steering is also standard.

The QX’s maximum towing capacity is 8,500 pounds for both 2WD and 4WD
models. A special tow mode revises shift patterns when engaged. Standard
towing features include a Class IV tow hitch and 7-pin wiring harness
integrated into the rear bumper (with a cover for an elegant appearance when
not in use).

Every 2011 QX comes with 20-inch, split 7-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with
P275/60R20 all-season performance tires, while 22-inch, 9-spoke forged
aluminum-alloy wheels with P275/50R22 all-season performance tires are
included with the Deluxe Touring Package. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System
(TPMS) with four-corner pressure readout and Tire Inflation Indicator is also
standard.

“The new QX gives drivers the feeling of a connection to the road,” said
Poore. “There’s also a remarkable level of flat ride comfort, plenty of power
and torque, and a solid feel throughout the vehicle that’s reassuring and
enjoyable for all passengers.”

A World-Class Travel Experience
The new QX’s world-class inner sanctum offers a comfortable space and
personal controls for every occupant. It features standard 7-passenger seating
capacity, with 8-passenger capacity available with the 2nd row 60/40-split
folding bench seat. Leather-appointed seating is standard for all three rows,
with even more luxurious semi-aniline leather seating surfaces offered in the
Deluxe Touring Package. The driver’s seat is 10-way power adjustable,
including 2-way power lumbar support. It features a standard dual occupant
memory system for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors. The
front passenger’s seat is 8-way power adjustable, including 2-way power
lumbar support. Heated front seat are standard, with available climate-
controlled (heating and cooling functions) front seats and heated 2nd row
seats (outboard positions only). The 2nd row captain’s chairs offer a tip-up
function for easy 3rd row entry/exit.

Also available is a remote release for the 2nd row seats to active the tip-up
function through a switch on the center stack. The 3rd row seat is a 60/40-split
power folding design with reclining capability. The 2nd row center console
includes two cupholders and two storage bins.

Also standard is a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Ample space for
luggage is provided with the 3rd row seat up. When down, the flat load floor
offers a wide, versatile space for carrying cargo, home furnishings or
recreational gear.

Two interior colors are available – Wheat or Graphite – along with two interior
finisher colors, a standard light trim or a darker trim with the Deluxe Touring
Package.

“If you could take the interior of a private jet and transform it into a full-size
SUV, this wouldn’t be far off,” said Poore. “From its available sofa-like semi-
aniline leather seating to its premium audio and three-source entertainment
systems, the QX interior is world-class. It’s a highly adaptive environment,
with a quality and quietness that adds to the stress-free driving and riding
experience.”

The long list of additional comfort and convenience features includes 9
cupholders and 4 door-pocket bottle holders, Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature
Control, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, FineVision
electroluminescent gauges and Infiniti signature analog clock. Available as
part of the Deluxe Touring Package is an Advanced Climate Control System
(ACCS) with Plasmacluster™ air purifier, Grape Polyphenol filter and auto
recirculation.

Among the new QX’s available premium entertainment and technology
features are an 8-inch WVGA color touch-screen display, Infiniti Controller for
use with vehicle information systems and comfort and convenience features,
and the Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® with Real-
Time Traffic Information, XM NavWeather™ with Real-Time Weather and 3-day
forecast (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Zagat® Restaurant
Guide. Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System is standard, as is the convenient
Around View™ Monitor with Front and Rear Sonar System. The Around View™
Monitor includes a new wide rear view camera.

The Bose® 2-channel, 13-speaker Premium Audio System includes two
subwoofers. Roof-mounted 3rd row speakers ensure that sound quality us not
compromised by obstructions such as luggage or cargo.

Other standard equipment includes a single in-dash CD/DVD player with MP3
playback, XM® Satellite Radio, USB connection port for use with iPod®
Interface or other compatible devices and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®.

The available Theater Package features dual 7-inch color monitors, two pairs
of wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary input jacks and
120V power outlet. The QX allows playback of games or movies in the rear,
while front occupants listen to audio all at the same time. The two 7-inch color
monitors include an auto-bright system that adjusts for daytime,
clouds/evening and night/tunnel lighting.

Available Technology
Like the new 2011 Infiniti M sedan, the new QX offers a range of advanced
technology systems. The QX includes both Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning
(LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. The LDW and LDP
systems use a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane
markers in front of the vehicle, calculate its position relative to those lane
markers and help warn the driver of a potential unintended lane departure with
a visual indicator and audible buzzer. If the driver does not return the vehicle
back toward the center of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver
with a gentle application of the brakes on the opposite side of the drift.

A new Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system is also available. It illuminates an
indicator light if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver
then activates the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible warning
sounds.

Optional on the new QX56 is Infiniti's advanced Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-
Speed Range), which, using a combination of laser sensors, throttle and brake
actuators and the QX56’s braking system, measures the distance to the
vehicle ahead and automatically adjusts the QX56’s speed to maintain a pre
selected following distance.

Distance Control Assist (DCA), which intuitively prompts the driver to release
the throttle and applies the brakes as needed in slowing traffic, is available as
part of the Technology Package – along with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and front Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

The QX56’s extensive list of standard safety features includes an Advanced
Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat
belt and occupant classification sensors; roof-mounted curtain side impact
supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for outboard occupant head
protection for all three rows; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air
bags; 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, load limiters and seat belt
reminder; 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants (including center
position); front seat Active Head Restraints; and LATCH System (Lower
Anchors and Tethers for CHildren). The QX56 also offers Zone Body
construction with front and rear crumple zones and steel side-door guard
beams.

“The new Infiniti QX utilizes technology, such as Distance Control Assist and
Intelligent Cruise Control, as it should be – to help reduce the stress of driving
without isolating the driver from the pleasure of driving,” said Poore.

Models and Packages
The 2011 Infiniti QX is available in two well-equipped models: Infiniti QX56
2WD and Infiniti QX56 4WD. Each is equipped with the advanced 5.6-liter V8
and 7-speed automatic transmission and a full range of luxury and
performance features including leather-appointed seating, Infiniti Hard Drive
Navigation System, Around View™ Monitor and premium audio system.

A number of additional equipment packages are offered, allowing buyers to
fine-tune their QX experience to their exact needs. The Deluxe Touring
Package includes 22-inch, 9-spoke forged aluminum-alloy wheels and
P275/50R22 all-season performance tires, Hydraulic Body Motion Control
system, climate-controlled front seats, heated 2nd row seats (outboard only),
remote tip-up 2nd row rear seats for easy 3rd row entry/exit, semi-aniline
leather seating surfaces, and the Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS).
The Deluxe Touring Package also includes headlight washers on the QX56
4WD.

The QX’s Theater Package features dual 7-inch color monitors, two pairs of
wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary inputs and 120V
power outlet, while the Split Bench Seat Package includes the 2nd row bench
seat with 60/40-split folding.

Finally, the Technology Package offers Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed
Range), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW),
Distance Control Assist (DCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane
Departure Prevention (LDP), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Front Pre-Crash Seat
Belts, and Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights.