2011 Infiniti M37
2009 Pebble Beach Concours
2009 infiniti essence concept 017
Infiniti's ability to build an attractive range of sedans and coupes off of a core platform has proven highly successful over the past two generations of the G, and now it looks like the larger, more luxurious M may get similar treatment--and it may even be joined by a convertible variant.
Styling is expected to draw from the Essence concept car shown last year at the Geneva Motor Show, in particular the highly stylized kink at the side of the B pillar. Front-end treatments could also include Essence-derived styling hints, such as fender vents and a different front fascia than the sedan.
The move to an M coupe would put Infiniti nearly on pace with its German competition, as well as Cadillac's CTS range. Both the 3.7-liter V-6 M36 and 5.6-liter V-8 M56 would be candidates for the chop, offering a range that's more in line with the standard CTS, E-Class and upcoming 6-Series than the V, AMG, and M end of the spectrum.
We'll probably have to wait at least a year to see the car in the sheet metal, putting Infiniti a bit behind the 2011 E-Class, which is already available in coupe, sedan, convertible and wagon formats. BMW's upcoming 6-Series is expected to get a four-door variant in the form of a production version of the Concept Gran Coupe, in addition to the existing coupe and convertible.
As always, we'll keep you updated with the latest news as it develops, so stay tuned for more on the M coupe. Until then, however, you can get a feel for the sister car with a full review of the 2011 Infiniti M sedan at TheCarConnection and our preview right here at Motor Authority.
[via InsideLine]
