Infiniti today unveiled its first production hybrid performance luxury sedan, the all-new 2012 Infiniti M35h, during a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new Infiniti Hybrid, which is set to launch at Infiniti retailers nationwide in spring 2011, stands to break new ground as the first true luxury performance “driver’s” hybrid – and the only vehicle to offer more than 350 horsepower and 30 miles per gallon fuel economy (estimated Highway mpg, official EPA figures not available at press time).

Speaking at the North American unveiling, Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore stated, “Simply put, the Infiniti M Hybrid will be the most advanced performance luxury sedan hybrid in the market, delivering V8 power and 4-cylinder fuel efficiency.”

The 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid will be on display at the Los Angeles Convention Center, along with the complete line of 2011 Infiniti vehicles, from Friday, Nov. 19th through Sunday, Nov. 28th.

The Infiniti M35h features the all-new Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid™ system, an advanced one-motor, two-clutch parallel hybrid design that combines precise, high-speed motor control technology, which, enabled by the powerful Lithium-ion battery, allows power to be delivered directly to the vehicle’s 7-speed automatic transmission. The system also utilizes an innovative Hybrid Electric Power Steering system and Electric Driven Intelligent Brake regenerative braking system, both which help conserve energy and provide a natural, enjoyable driving feel.

The Infiniti M Hybrid’s exhilarating driving performance also greatly benefits from use of Infiniti’s proven 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine, which paired with the 50 kW electric motor, provides a hybrid system net power of 360 horsepower.

Torque figures are equally impressive, with the V6’s 258 lb-ft of toque combining with the electric motor’s immediately available 199 lb-ft of torque to provide strong performance. The result is a vehicle that first and foremost delivers a refined driving experience, along with expected best-in-class Combined fuel economy (estimated fuel economy 30 mpg Highway, 25 mpg City and 27 mpg Combined).

In addition, the new Infiniti M35h can drive on electric power alone at speeds up to 62 mph and can travel on electric propulsion for up to 1.2 miles at a time. Tests have shown that in mixed diving, the Infiniti M35h is able to drive in electric only mode for as much as 50% of the time. And, with its compact hybrid system design, the new Infiniti M35h also delivers uncompromised interior space and competitive trunk space.

The M35h also embraces the essence of all things Infiniti – style, performance, luxury, craftsmanship and technology. The Infiniti M’s dramatic, sports styling is matched with a roomy, comfortable interior environment featuring standard leather-appointed seating, Japanese Ash wood trim or available silver powdered genuine White Ash wood trim, and available premium audio and climate control systems.

Standard M35h features include Active Noise Control, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and power sliding glass tinted moonroof. The Infiniti M Hybrid is also available with advanced technology features, including Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI), Forest Air® system, Active Trace Control, and Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System.

Also at the auto show, Infiniti was named by the Automotive Lease Guide as the “Best Luxury Brand” in their 12th annual ALG Residual Value Awards for having the best resale value of any luxury brand in America. The 2011 Infiniti QX56 was named “Best Luxury Fullsize Utility” vehicle.

“Within the last year, we’ve completely redesigned or enhanced 80% of our line-up. Since launch, the all-new 2011 Infiniti M and Infiniti QX are experiencing tremendous sales growth, with increases of more than 100% and nearly 200% respectively,” Poore added. “It’s an exciting time for Infiniti.”

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid EPA Rated at 32 Highway, 27 City MPG
Rory Jurnecka
February 4 2011 3:00 PM

It may have taken Infiniti a little longer to put a hybrid offering in its lineup, but that’s about to be remedied with the 2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid. Of course fuel economy is a chief consideration with any hybrid vehicle, and the M35 Hybrid has just been EPA certified at 27/32 mpg city/highway, with a combined rating of 29 mpg.

Featuring a 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V-6, two clutches (one wet, one dry) and a 50 kW electric motor, the M35 Hybrid boasts a combined 360 horsepower and is able to be driven on electric power alone. A seven-speed automatic transmission and a lithium-ion battery pack are also used. According to Infiniti, the M35 Hybrid is the only vehicle on the market that offers more than 350 horsepower while attaining over 30 mpg on the highway.

The M35 Hybrid’s economy rating compares favorably to that of the base model M37 with a 3.7-liter, 330-horsepower V-6, that car achieving 18/26 mpg city/highway with a combined rating of 21 mpg. It also tops the 22/25 mpg city/highway rated Lexus GS 450h, the vehicle that is arguably the M35’s closest competition.

Pricing for the 2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid has not yet been announced, but is expected to fall in between that of the all-wheel-drive M37x and M56. The car will arrive in showrooms in Spring 2011.

No doubt for some, the "h" on the deck lid will be worth the cost of admission in eco chic.