In recent years, INFINITI's design intent has become more defined, establishing a clear vision for the brand as it expands its presence around the world. More than just a tool to express beauty, the INFINITI design vocabulary is used to define both the premise and promise of INFINITI vehicles – usually with just a gesture or a simple line or two. The latest evolution of INFINITI's leading-edge design makes its world debut at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in the form of the INFINITI Coupe Concept.
"The INFINITI Coupe Concept draws a new line, continuing the INFINITI tradition of merging design and performance," said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, INFINITI Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "It is a vehicle of extraordinary grace and strength, with an aggressive, seductive presence."
The Coupe Concept's dramatic exterior includes a full-length glass panel roof, gently waved shoulder line, modulated front fenders and hood, deep front spoiler, polished "bare metal-look" paint and large projector LED headlights and taillights with a special sunglass-style multi-layered surface treatment. It also features hidden, touch-to-open door handles and compact cameras in place of traditional outside rearview mirrors (images appear on flip-up screens located on each side of the instrument cluster).
Other exterior highlights include extensive use of brushed and polished aluminum on the INFINITI signature "double-arch" front grille and on other accent areas, including the side sills, dual exhaust finishers and integrated rear spoiler. The Coupe Concept's large 20-inch, 9-spoke wheels are painted aluminum-alloy and are mounted with low-profile Bridgestone Potenza tires (255/35R20 front, 275/35R20 rear).
The Coupe Concept interior combines a performance-inspired cockpit with a luxurious passengers space. It includes an INFINITI signature "double wave" instrument panel design, with five large gauges, violet-color gauge illumination and integrated multi-function (navigation, vehicle systems/HVAC controls) information display. A dramatic, full-length center console includes a sculpted leather-and-aluminum shifter knob, an INFINITI analog clock and other controls, including INFINITI's HMI (Human Machine Interface) controller similar to that recently introduced on the INFINITI M and FX. The three-spoke steering wheel includes elegantly crafted paddle shifters and wheel-mounted control buttons.
Specially textured aluminum accents, in the style of traditional Japanese "Washi" paper, are used throughout the Coupe Concept interior to project an image of artistic resonance and spiritual precision. The large, deeply bucketed leather-appointed front seats include integrated audio speakers in the headrests.
"The Coupe Concept's interior is both dramatically elegant and appropriately understated. It is an environment where the driver can feel cosseted and in control, with a supportive seat, paddle shifters and aluminum pedals," said Igo. "At the same time, the passengers are treated to rich leather and aluminum textures, comfortable seating and an expansive view overhead. In short, the Coupe Concept embraces all that is INFINITI – today and as we continue to draw a line to the future."
The INFINITI Coupe Concept was created at the Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, Japan.
