2009 Infiniti G37

2009 Infiniti G37

Every auto show seems to spawn as many rumors as concepts, and though the rumors out of the 2010 Detroit Auto Show have been sparing thus far, the latest is a fun one. We recently reported that the 2011 Infiniti G sedan would get a turbocharged 2.5-liter V-6 variant called the G25 to slot in below the 3.7-liter G37. It appears this was not entirely accurate, with sources in Japan revealing that a new entry-level G25 is in the works but it won't be coming with a turbocharged engine.

Instead, it will stick with the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter V-6 found in the Japanese domestic market Nissan Skyline 250GT sedan. This particular unit features double overhead cams and is rated at 210 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque--enough to give the 230 horsepower BMW 328i sedan a run for its money.

We can't be sure of the details, and it's certainly not official yet, but it is an interesting idea.

Still, regardless of the sketchy details, the idea of a more entry-level Infiniti G sedan is intriguing. One does have to wonder, however, what implications moving further down-market and down in price might have on Infiniti's brand perception as a whole. With the new M on the way and Infiniti's efforts to move that nameplate even further up-market, the G25 seems almost counterproductive.

Even if the 2011 Infiniti G25 does manage to materialize in U.S. dealerships, don't expect it to include coupe or convertible versions--at least at first. According to the report, strong sales of the base sedan would mean both variants would also get the green light down the road, but that the four-door model would be the only one to start.

What do you think will happen? What would you like to see change in the entry-level luxury segment? Let us know below.

[InsideLine]