Nissan shows new Infiniti concept

Infiniti has some interesting cars in its North American line-up, including the G35 Coupe. Thought to preview a replacement for this sharply-styled sports coupe is the Coupe Concept shown at the Detroit Motor Show this week.

What with the Infiniti brand going global, we need to look at cars like this with a little more interest now. The concept is gorgeous to behold, with its paintwork representing polished bare metal and accentuated with polished aluminium in the Infiniti grille, lower air intakes, side sills, exhaust tips and rear boot spoiler. In profile, the Coupe Concept reminds us of the Nissan GTR PROTO shown at the Tokyo Show last year. It is feasible that Nissan is going to produce two versions of this car; a full on sports car with a Nissan badge and an Infiniti version with more luxury aimed at the North American market. After all, speaking to Americans at the show and discussing the forthcoming Nissan GTR, they were not so sure that a $70,000 Nissan would cut it in their country.

Inside the Infiniti concept, the interior is cosseting and sporting, though with a luxurious feel. Four occupants are snugly held in place by deeply bucketed seats, though rear passengers get a raw deal. Naturally, the driver is the centre of attention, though it is worth noting that this car has an automatic gearbox with paddles behind the steering wheel rather than the enthusiast's choice of a manual. We'll see what becomes of this concept, but the design cues are certain to be seen.