Infiniti Rolls Out High Performance Cars?

Introducing a group of faster, more powerful vehicles is component of a broader plan to strengthen Infiniti’s identity within the market. It also helps make Infiniti a better match for other luxury manufacturers that have high-performance divisions like BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

The new car, a hopped-up version from the company’s G Coupe, uses the tried and true combination of large engine, large brakes and firm suspension to turn an everyday car into a hotrod that seems prepared for the racetrack. The IPL G Coupe has a 348-horsepower engine and either a seven-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed stick shift. It is expected in dealerships in December.

Over the last 10 years or so having a high-performance division has become a de facto requirement for luxury vehicle makers who anticipate to be taken seriously. BMW continues to be selling effective M-series cars in the U.S. because the 1980s, AMG has been souping up Mercedes Benz vehicles for decades, first as an independent shop and later as a unit from the car maker. Even Cadillac has gotten to the act with its brawny V series.

Infiniti includes a reputation as a builder of fast, sharp-handling vehicles which are fun to drive, but its following is little. Within the eyes of numerous buyers the brand fades into the background of oddball names and look-alike styling that pervades the auto industry. Revised styling across its vehicle lineup and the addition of speedier IPL models in meant to attract the attention of drivers who may otherwise appear only at European manufacturers.