Infiniti has released official photos of the new 2011 M37 and M56 sedans upon its unveiling at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Revealed through a unique video mapping process, in which a ‘virtual M' was created on a 3D form, it is the world's first ‘virtual only' (no physical vehicle) automotive application of this cutting-edge technology.
Featuring dynamic styling, inspired by the Infiniti Essence concept, the new M sedans have an aggressive appearance with elegant detailing. The front end is dominated by a massive grille which is beautifully integrated into the flowing lines of the hood and front bumper. Further back, the character lines rise above the rear wheels to help give the M a "hunkered down" stance.
Inside, the 2011 M sedan is a huge improvement over its predecessor. Materials and build quality seem excellent, while the flowing design helps to add interest. As before, the center stack is dominated by a large display, "top-mounted" controls, and plenty of wood trim. Oddly enough, the car appears to feature two different controls knobs: one on the center console and another below the navigation system.
While official specifications weren't released, the M37 should adopt a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 328 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the M56 will likely boast a 5.6-liter V8 with at least 390 hp. In Europe, the M56 will be replaced by a "V6 performance diesel".
Look for the M sedans to make their public debuts later this year, with sales scheduled to begin in spring 2010.
[UPDATE] Video added 18.08.2009
2011 INFINITI M MAKES VIRTUAL DEBUT AT CONCOURS D'ELEGANCE
PEBBLE BEACH, California (Aug. 14, 2009) - Infiniti today provided an advanced look at the all-new 2011 Infiniti M performance luxury saloon at the 59th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. This is the third generation of Infiniti's popular M and the first to be sold across all of Infiniti's 32 markets around the world, including Western Europe.
Like the current Infiniti M, the next-generation design will be offered with V8 and V6 engines. The 2011 M models will be designated the Infiniti M56 and Infiniti M37 respectively, reflecting their more powerful, larger displacement engines. For Western Europe, the M56 will be replaced by a V6 performance diesel.
The 2011 Infiniti M also features a completely redesigned body, with authentic sports saloon proportions and evocative new styling with a low front end and deeply sculpted wings inspired by the Infiniti Essence concept car. The new M interior promises to be pure Infiniti, highlighted by the use of innovative materials, an advanced climate control system, superior audio and an enhanced quality feel. Despite improved performance from the new engine line-up, fuel consumption will be reduced. In addition, the 2011 M will continue Infiniti's safety innovation leadership with an industry-first Side-Collision Prevention (SCP) system. The SCP system is designed to alert the driver if another vehicle is detected during an intended lane change and help prevent a potential collision by moving the vehicle toward the center of the original lane of travel.
The 2011 Infiniti M which is scheduled to go on sale across the world starting from Spring 2010, was revealed through a unique video mapping process, in which a ‘virtual M' was created on a 3D form. It is the world's first ‘virtual only' (no physical vehicle) automotive application of this cutting-edge technology. The 2011 Infiniti M will make its official public debut later this year.
