View raw footage of the new Infiniti QX here.

Next-Generation Luxury SUV Set For Early Summer Availability at Infiniti of Kirkland; Base Pricing Remains Unchanged From 2010 QX, Despite Major Enhancements Throughout

In conjunction with the world debut of the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX Luxury Sport Utility Vehicle at a press conference at the New York International Auto Show, Infiniti has announced pricing for the vehicle – which remains unchanged from the 2010 models. The 2011 QX is scheduled to go on sale a Infiniti of Kirkland in early summer 2010.

Prices for the 2011 Infiniti QX start at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $56,700 USD for the QX56 2WD and $59,800 USD for the QX56 4WD. These prices are the same as the previous generation QX, despite added content and features including:

- A new 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine with Infiniti’s VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) and Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) technologies – producing 25% more power and more than a 10% increase in fuel efficiency versus the previous design.

- A new standard 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Downshift Rev Matching (replaces the previous 5-speed automatic).

- Standard Around View Monitor, upgraded Bose Premium Audio System and Automatic Temperature Control System.

Other standard equipment includes 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, power sliding moonroof, power rear liftgate, leather-appointed seating, power folding and reclining 3rd row seats, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with XM NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic Information, XM NavWeather with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast (XM subscription required, sold separately) and Zagat Survey Restaurant Guide.

In addition, the new QX offers an array of available advanced technology, including a new Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, a Theater Package with dual 7-inch monitors, Advanced Climate Control System, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) and new Blind Spot Warning (BSW).

“This is a phenomenal vehicle at a phenomenal price point, especially given the enhanced styling inside and out and the impressive suite of new and improved standard features,” said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Business Unit. “The new QX is designed to offer a true five-star travel experience, while providing the benefits of available eight-passenger seating capacity, versatile cargo space and 8,500-pound towing capacity. It sets a new standard in full-size luxury SUVs.”

Come into Infiniti of Kirkland soon to experience the all new QX for yourself.

*MSRP excludes applicable tax, title, license and Destination & Handling fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice.

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EDMUNDS.COM TRUE COST TO OWN AWARDS INCLUDE INFINITI'S M35

Edmunds.com has just identified the top cars in each class for the True Cost to Own Awards for model year 2010. These winning vehicles are the value leaders of Edmunds cost-of-owning estimates.

After gathering data from July 2009 through April 2010, Edmunds applied its True Cost to Own algorithms to estimate the five-year cost of owning each model year 2010 new vehicle currently on the market. From there, Edmunds.com separated vehicles into comparable segments, according to their body type and average MSRP.

Costs used by Edmunds included financing, depreciation, taxes and fees, insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs and any federal tax credit that may be available. Adding all of these together can give a more accurate picture of which cars cost less overall.

The awarded vehicles include Infiniti’s M35 model. It is highest on the list for lowest overall ownership costs in its respective segment. From data collected, the M35 has consistently maintained the lowest cost of ownership and gives smart consumers the best value for their money.

 

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READ THE LATEST 2011 INFINITI M REVIEW FROM MOTOR TREND AND POPULAR MECHANICS

First Drive: 2011 Infiniti M

Third Time's A Charm: With the debut of Gen III, the Infiniti M Appears Ready for Prime Time

By Ron Kiino, Motor Trend

The last time we had an Infiniti M in a comparison test -- a 303-horsepower, seven-speed M35 S -- it finished eighth... out of eight cars. Or, as the seven other luxury brands are happy to point out, dead last. For the 2011 model year, though, Infiniti has put to bed the last-place second-gen M and pulled out from under the covers a third gen that is more stylish, more powerful, more fuel-efficient, and more technologically advanced. As you can tell, it's got more of just about everything, a fact that will no doubt make it a formidable participant in the next shootout. But until we can amass another luxe-sedan showdown, let's examine whether the 2011 M truly has the goods to be great.

Up 0.6 inch in length and 1.5 inches in width but down 0.3 inch in height, Infiniti's fresh flagship wears sleeker, more curvaceous sheet metal draped over available 20-inch wheels (18s are standard), all of which make it look like an enlarged G sedan. Many of the styling cues, e.g. the sculpted fenders and low-slung, upright grille, come from the voluptuous Essence concept that debuted at the 2009 Geneva auto show. Inside, the refinements continue with abundant premium leather and wood, providing a richer ambiance than its predecessor. For the aesthetically and tactilely picky, a new deluxe touring package adds super soft semi-aniline leather, suedelike headliner, and unique Ash trim that has been hand-buffed with genuine silver powder (to see wood softly sparkle under sunlight is reason enough to drop the $3800). And unlike the 2010 model, the 2011 presents a more user-friendly center stack that not only utilizes fewer buttons but also is angled more towards the driver. All occupants will appreciate the M's available Forest Air HVAC system, which provides humidity control, a breeze mode that alternates airflow for a more natural feeling, and auto recirculation that detects dust and foul odors, as well as a class-leading 103.6-cubic-foot interior.

Under hood, the M ditches the previous 3.5-liter 303-horse V-6 and 4.5-liter 325-horse V-8 in favor of a 3.7-liter 330-horsepower V-6 (M37), a direct-injected 5.6-liter 420-horse V-8 (M56), and, come spring 2011, a 3.5-liter V-6 paired with a lithium-ion battery pack (M35 Hybrid). Both the M37 and M56 come standard with a seven-speed automatic and are available with all-wheel drive as well as a sport package that includes double-piston dampers, four-wheel active steering, four-piston front brake calipers, shift paddles, sport seats/steering wheel/shift knob, and 20-inch alloys with summer tires.

Recently we had a chance to sample the 2011 M lineup for a day, and found both the M37 and M56 to be especially lively and quick. The M37's 3.7-liter V-6 seemed an ideal match for Infiniti's flagship, and should have no problem bettering the old M35's 5.8-second 0-60 time, especially given a weight loss of six pounds. Further, fuel economy with the six increases from 17/25 to 18/26. As with most sedans in this segment, the V-6 sounds so sporty and comes across so robust that a V-8 is really unnecessary. Nevertheless, eights are expected in the M's class, and the 5.6 will likely fulfill the 15 percent take-rate that Infiniti predicts. Given that the 2010 M45's 4.5-liter generated "only" 325 horsepower, the 2011's 95-horse bump represents a huge leap in performance, especially since, according to Infiniti scales, the M56 has gained just 70 pounds. We expect 0-60 times to fall below five seconds, but one thing not falling is gas mileage -- it's up from 16/21 to 16/25.

Enthusiasts will appreciate the 2011 S trims' steering wheel-mounted magnesium shift paddles, a feature absent in the 2010 model. Part of the aforementioned sport package, the paddles allow for manual gear changes of the seven-speed, which also features downshift rev matching. The larger Akebono brakes, another upgrade of the sport pack, offer up progressive pedal feel and stout performance, and the M's steering proved quick, linear, and communicative. A new four-mode (standard, eco, sport, snow) Infiniti Drive system comes standard, and Infiniti's Safety Shield adds the world's first blind-spot intervention system (selective braking intervenes to pull the car back into its lane) to lane-departure warning, lane-departure prevention, intelligent cruise control, and distance control assist safety systems.

Whether all of these improvements are enough to set the new M apart from the 2011 BMW 5 Series, not to mention the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Jaguar XF, et al, remains to be seen. We'll reserve that judgment until we have the opportunity to drive them back-to-back. Regardless, with the arrival of the M, this segment has become more competitive than ever.

 

2011 Infiniti M37 and M56 Test Drive

The 2011 Infiniti M37 and M56 try to take on BMW and Mercedez-Benz in midsize luxury. Here is how the vehicles fare on a demanding mountain test drive.

By Ben Stewart, Popular Mechanics

Two months ago we had a chance to spend some time behind the wheel of prototype versions of Infiniti's new M37 and M56 sedans. We were certainly impressed. But it's difficult to judge a luxury car when there are still some rough edges to smooth out.

Well, after driving the production sedans for a day on some challenging driving loops in the mountains near San Diego, we can say these new Infinitis are assuredly smooth. The midsize luxury sedan class has been heating up thanks to recent launches of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series. Are these Infinitis capable and comfortable enough to take on these legendary German rivals? Let's find out.

The Specs

Under the hood of the $46,250 M37 is the familiar 3.7-liter VQ-series V6, now rated at 330 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. But the biggest news, for those who relish the thrust from V8 power, is the motor in the $57,550 M56. The new 5.6-liter V8 is rated at 420 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired to a seven-speed automatic and all-wheel drive is optional.

M37s are rated to deliver 18 mpg city and 26 highway, while the V8 M56 model's performance dips slightly to 16 mpg city and 25 highway.

Like nearly every other car in Infiniti's lineup—with the exception of the hulking QX56 SUV—the new M sedans ride on an updated version of the company's FM platform. This architecture is so flexible it can underpin cars as varied in size and mission as the Nissan 370Z and the Infiniti FX crossovers.

Unlike most new car redesigns today, the dimensions of the M have not grown by much in this latest generation—it is wider by 1.5 inches, lower by a fraction of an inch and slightly longer too. But the wheelbase remains the same, and that means the interior provides roughly the same roominess as the old car. The new Ms haven't gained much weight either, the M37 at 3858 pounds is 6 pounds less than the old car and the M56 is 70 pounds more than the old M45.

The focus of the new M's chassis was refinement. Upfront, the double-wishbone suspension remains largely the same. But in the rear, the multilink design has been heavily modified with far beefier-looking lower links, retuned rubber bushings and a new coilover shock design. The goal? Increase comfort without loosing any of the sportiness.

Speaking of the "s" word, a sport package can be optioned on either the V6 or V8 cars. This includes larger 14-inch front rotors (13.8-inch in the rear) along with new dual-piston shocks, four-wheel steering (up to 1-degree rear steer in phase with front wheels) and 20-inch wheels with summer tires—amongst numerous interior upgrades such as magnesium paddle shifters and thicker bolstered seats.

The new M is packed with technical prowess too. There's a standard Drive Mode Selector that will vary throttle progression and transmission shift mapping for one of four modes, standard, sport, eco and snow.

The option list is deep with new tech too. There's not only a blind-spot warning system but also Blind Spot Intervention that uses cameras and individual wheel braking to guide the car away from a lane that is occupied. Similarly, Active Trace Control will use selective individual wheel braking to set the car up for an upcoming corner—it's almost like a pre-stability control. The system doesn't make the new M corner any more quickly, but it does smooth out transitions.

The new M will have a hybrid model for 2012. Until then the Eco Pedal option is there to satisfy fuel-frugal drivers by providing feedback at the pedal when you are accelerating too forcefully in Eco Mode.

Inside, the Forrest Air system combats what is one of the more annoying shortcomings of any climate system—constant air blowing straight at your face. Instead of fiddling with the vent controls and reluctantly sending all the airflow to your feet, this system manages air for you and sends a pleasant breeze-like flow of air around the cabin.

But one of our favorite tech advancements could be the simplest one. Intelligent Key allows individual fobs to store seating, mirror and steering wheel position, audio, nav and climate settings. So walk to your M sedan with "your" fob in your pocket and the car will automatically adjust to the settings you like best.

The Drive

Slide behind the wheel of the new M and you'll immediately notice that the level of craftsmanship and polish has improved over the old car's. The plastics and fitment of the various interior components are far richer and more luxurious than before.

Okay, so how do they drive? Though the new Ms don't really weigh any more than the outgoing models, there is a sense of solidity and heft to these sedans that wasn't there before—sort of like a BMW 7 Series.

The handling is still very sporty, the steering precise, and the M37 and M56 probably deliver higher limits than the old M sedans—especially with the sport package. Still, there's an edginess that has been smoothed out of this car. The old M was more raw and unpolished—and that actually made it quite fun. This new one is more restrained and more effortless to drive quickly. And that makes it slightly less involving. In other words, the new M now finally feels like a luxury sedan.

For most, the M37 provides just the right amount of thrust. And it is engaging, with a sweet V6 howl that only seems to get better with each generation of Infiniti car. But the M56 is the one we want. Its effortless power and torque reminds us why we love V8s. And its enormous thrust makes it far quicker than any previous Infiniti M sedan. The only problem is that the sound of the V8 is muffled. We'd like to have seen louder mufflers bundled with the Sport package on the V8 cars.

The Bottom Line

Infiniti has added considerable refinement to its flagship sedan. The M may have had some of its edginess polished away. But these sedans are easily the most comfortable and luxurious cars Infiniti has ever produced. In fact that finely tuned blend of sportiness and luxury in these new M sedans could steal quite a bit of business from Infiniti's German rivals.

 

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Infiniti Named as an Official Corporate Partner of the 2010 NCAA® Division I Men’s Basketball Championship and CBS Sports

Expanded Presence in Men’s College Basketball Includes Exclusive ”Inspiration” Vignettes and Sponsorship of CBSSports.com’s marquee “Infiniti Bracket Challenge”

Infiniti continues to expand its substantial presence in men’s college basketball with the announcement that Infiniti is an “Official Corporate Partner of the 2010 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship and CBS Sports.” The agreement with CBS Sports follows Infiniti’s recent multi-level, multi-platform sponsorships with ESPN, the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC), the SEC (Southeastern Conference) and the Big Ten Conference.

Infiniti also is creating, in conjunction with CBS Sports, original-content custom on-air features that bring inspired college basketball and coaching stories to viewers during CBS Sports’ broadcasts.

“This is our second year of involvement as a major sponsor of college sports through individual conference partnerships and now, what we believe is one of the most exciting sporting events of the year, the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship on CBS Sports,” said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Business Unit. “The tournament on CBS Sports is also the ideal showcase for the broadcast debut of our all-new 2011 Infiniti M performance luxury sedan and our message, ‘Inspiration changes the game.’”

As part of its ongoing relationship with CBS Sports, Infiniti is the exclusive sponsor of CBSSports.com’s marquee “Infiniti Bracket Challenge,” which attracted 1.1 million players in 2009. The winner of “CBSSports.com Bracket Challenge presented by Infiniti” will be awarded a new 2011 Infiniti M sedan. Fans can sign up now for their bracket challenge at CBSSports.com.

Infiniti also supports NCAA.com’s “March Madness on Demand” throughout the NCAA Championship Tournament (7.5 million unique visitors in 2009).

“We’re bringing together the strong consumer interest in the all-new 2011 Infiniti M, which goes on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide on March 18th, with the large national audience for the tournament,” said Poore. “The timing and synergy of the two events couldn’t be better for the launch of the latest and most advanced addition to the Infiniti lineup.”

The Infiniti M, which features inspired technology such as the world’s first Blind Spot Intervention™ System, is available in M37 and M56 model designations and with rear-wheel drive or with Infiniti’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system.

 

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The Infiniti G: Brains and beauty
Infiniti convertible looks good with top up or down and can handle any road

Scott Burgess: Auto review

The addition of the hardtop has transformed convertibles from Sunday summer strollers to everyday drivers.

For the most part, they look like regular cars, drive like regular cars and generally feel like them. But then touch a single button and the three-piece roof folds up smartly into the trunk, and all of sudden everything ordinary becomes better. For those who want it all, hardtop convertibles make it possible.

Earlier this year, Infiniti introduced the 2009 G convertible. The word "ordinary" and "regular" never should be used when mentioning this vehicle. Things like "great" and "beautiful" should be said often. Top up, top down, the G convertible is just as nice in January as it is in July.

Infiniti, the luxury brand of Nissan Motor Co., on the whole seems to have found its identity in recent years. Throughout its sporty lineup, there's a flowing feel to the vehicles as they mix sweeping curves with high-tech luxury. The G convertible is merely Infiniti's next step after producing the stellar G37 coupe and sedan. It's as it should be -- a progression of luxury.

Under the long, graceful aluminum hood is Infiniti's 3.7-liter aluminum V-6. The 325-horsepower engine lets the driver toss the car around with glee. The seven-speed automatic transmission pushes through the gears so quickly, you hardly notice when you're in seventh.

If that's too fast, then use the magnesium paddle shifters to wind out each gear and take advantage of the car's full 267 pound-feet of torque. The car can transform from sleepy cruiser to near rocket ship at the click of a paddle. (There's also a manual six-speed transmission for drivers who prefer to drive more and steer less, but the automatic seems to fit this car's style more. Not every car needs to be a beast at a traffic light.)
A quiet ride

There's a sophisticated feel to the G convertible that defies description. The car's performance is much more mature than its age. (The first G37 arrived in 2002.) On the road, it feels a little heavy and planted. It weighs just a hair over 4,000 pounds, but the pounds are nicely spread around -- with a 52 percent to 48 percent front-to-rear weight ratio. The independent suspension holds the car to the road and lets a driver push through corners faster and faster. Push this car too hard and you'll swallow your gum. The back end will push back and slide a little, but the vehicle's dynamic control and traction control will help straighten out your line.

The rack-and-pinion steering with speed-sensitive power is nicely tuned to provide firm feedback and nice return to center, but also makes parking easy. The long wheelbase glides over bumps and concrete seams with never a hassle. Most of all, when the top is up, the G convertible is extremely quiet.

Long gone are the days when a convertible top flapped in the wind, providing the feeling that the top was down. I tested the G convertible during warmer months, but it would easily hold up to a Michigan winter. The only limitation would be the rear-wheel drive, which provides fun on snow and ice, but not necessarily safety.

Muffling outside noise is one of the hallmarks of luxury. People need quiet and time to think -- and the G convertible provides both. If everyone would drive around in a quiet car, and just sit and think for a few minutes every day, the world would be a better place. Infiniti is doing its part.

Sensing danger

The G convertible also takes over some mindless driving habits, freeing the driver to concentrate on more important things. The optional intelligent cruise control with preview braking will adjust the car's speed to the traffic in front while also looking out for dangerous situations. If it senses one, it pre-charges the brakes -- meaning as soon as you tap the pedal, the ventilated discs and calipers will spring into action.

Really, the G convertible performs much better than people might suspect, but that's only because it's so beautiful.

The front end stretches the car's body, and the L-shaped headlamps look like they stretch nearly all the way back to the driver. The Xenon headlamps are on par with those on the very best luxury cars, transforming glass and light into jewelry.

The well-proportioned body cuts the overhangs in the front and rear, providing it with a 112-inch wheelbase and taut stance. The wheels are stuffed into the curvy fenders, which are delicately flared. The wedge-like profile makes the G convertible look as if it's a cat ready to pounce on unsuspecting prey.

Then, take the top down and listen to every one say, "G, that looks nice."

Its beltline now takes on a much sharper look, and a parallel line below it cuts from the front fender all the way to the taillight.

Many convertibles have a tendency to bulk up on the backside, as they have to create space for the roof. This Infinity, however, remains slender from front to rear.

Front seats are heated

The interior combines performance and luxury. The leather seats are well-bolstered and very comfortable. Heating is standard on the front seats; ventilated seats are available as an option. Convertible-lovers know the benefit of both features. The optional 13-Bose-speaker stereo system sounds great with the top up or down, and most of the features seem oriented toward the driver. There is Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone operation, as well as voice recognition for operating the stereo, climate and optional navigation systems.

The controls on top of the dash for the navigation system take some time to learn to operate. And while the overall look of the dash and instruments feels elegant, Infiniti uses a little too much silver plastic around the center console and dash. It detracts from the car's beauty instead of enhancing it.

There also is an easy-to-use button to move the seats forward for easy access to the cramped second row. While the sedan can carry five people, the convertible is designed for only four. Then again, when was the last time you loaded up four adults into your current ride?

In the past, it took sunny days for convertible owners to grin. With the Infiniti G convertible, it doesn't matter what season it is. This car is ready for all of them.
 

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Infiniti Confirms M35 Hybrid Production

Infiniti today confirmed that its first production hybrid vehicle will be part of the recently announced line of 2011 Infiniti M luxury performance sedans, which are scheduled to go on sale in spring 2010 at Infiniti dealers nationwide. The Infiniti M35 hybrid is expected toarrive about 12 months later as a 2012 model. It is Infiniti’s first hybrid in its 20-year existence, as well as the cleanest and most economical car in Infiniti’s history.

Realizing the high performance/low emissions promise of the recent Infiniti Essence concept car, the M35 Hybrid has been designed and engineered to add to, not take away from, the driving experience, a key part of any Infiniti’s appeal. The M35 Hybrid is based on the all-new M, which itself picks up styling cues from Essence, the show-stopper that made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show early in 2009.

The M35 Hybrid maintains a high performance luxury sedan profile,overlaying it with the fuel economy and CO2 emissions of a smaller car,while delivering driving flair to please any enthusiast – complete with charismatic V6 and rear-wheel drive handling.

Infiniti’s hybrid system, developed solely within Infiniti’s parent group, is a single electric motor/twin clutch arrangement. Innovatively, the first clutch is installed between the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 and the electric motor. The result of this configuration, where all components act on a single prop shaft to the rear differential, is a consistent driving feel under all conditions with linear performance and the “direct responses” that the engineers sought.

The electric motor acts as both propulsion unit, boosting the V6 in“power assist” mode when maximum acceleration is required, and also asa generator. Along with charging the battery in the normal way, the motor recovers energy otherwise lost during deceleration and braking.

The M Hybrid can also run solely on its electric motor in certain driving conditions, furthering fuel efficiency and optimizing energy usage across the widest possible range of driving conditions. Details of driving range, performance and transmission will be released later.

As expected of Infiniti, several new technologies are introduced in the new M35 Hybrid, including a “laminated” lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack that is the same size as conventional batteries but offers twice the power. Lamination enhances the pack’s cooling performance, while temperature stability is further improved by the use of manganese positive electrodes. An end result of this is exceptional battery reliability.

The M35 Hybrid joins conventional engine-equipped 2011 M versions –including a new high-performance diesel V6 for Western Europe – as the first Ms to be sold across all of Infiniti’s world markets, currently33 countries. All of the new-generation Infiniti M models are on target to beat their predecessors on fuel consumption and emissions – despite across-the-board performance improvements – thanks to a range of efficiency-enhancing measures.

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Revealed: The All-New 2011 Infiniti M

August 14, 2009 – The all-new 2011 Infiniti M was revealed today at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the famed celebration of timeless automotive design. Infiniti Senior Vice President and Design Director, Shiro Nakamura, unveiled the completely redesigned M in a dynamic 3D digital presentation showing how the M has been transformed through natural inspiration and passionate craftsmanship into a luxury sedan of sculpted form and rejuvenating refinement.

Inside the new M, meticulously crafted leather materials and wood accents-sanded and polished by hand-are fused with vividly modern design and advanced technologies. Outside, the lines of its unique double wave hood and sculpted body panels flow with organic grace, while its athletic stance hints at thrilling performance. Powering it will be the 3.7-liter VVEL V6 producing more than 320 horsepower, or an all-new 5.6-liter VVEL V8 producing more than 400 horsepower. The new M also demonstrates Infiniti's continued leadership in technological innovation. The 2011 M will feature an industry-first blind spot intervention system that warns of vehicles next to you and assists in returning the vehicle to its original lane. To view this exciting reveal, and find out more about the new M, select the link below.

See the all-new 2011 Infiniti M

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AutoPacific's Research Reveals the Most Highly Recommended Vehicles - Infiniti G37 recommended the highest!

TUSTIN, Calif. (May 12, 2009) - Who do you go to for advice when buying a new car? What about owners themselves? AutoPacific has just analyzed recommendation intentions from 25,000 new-car owners, and the results offer interesting insights.

AutoPacific, which has provided automotive analysis to carmakers since 1986, bases its findings on a just-completed comprehensive survey of more than 25,000 consumers who purchased or leased new cars or light trucks in the period from September to December 2008.

"Typically, car buyers are very pleased when they first drive their new car off the dealer lot. But just as a vehicle's worth depreciates over time, some car owners' level of confidence depreciates," says George Peterson, president of AutoPacific. "We have quantified their level of confidence to see which new car owners will recommend their model most and this is information which will help new car shoppers make informed, confident buying decisions. While many owners can be happy with their new cars, it takes another level of confidence to recommend it."

Porsche leads as the top brand in a close race, with the highest owner recommendation of 91%. "Porsche owners' feelings for their cars run deep, some might call it devotion," says Peterson. "Clearly that is still the case as the Porsche line-up all scored well in this survey."

The vehicle - car or truck - registering highest overall satisfaction in 2009 is the Infiniti G37, which was recommended by 95% of new owners. The truck with the highest overall satisfaction score is the Ford F-150 recommended by 89% of its owners. In a tie, the SUVs with the highest overall satisfaction score are the GMC Yukon XL and Honda CR-V recommended by 93% of their owners.

At the manufacturer level, multiple top-ranked award winners include: Toyota with eight top rankings (Toyota 6, Lexus 2), Ford with six (Ford 5, Lincoln 1), Honda with three and both General Motors and Chrysler with two (Chevy 1, GMC 1) (Dodge 1, Jeep 1).

AutoPacific's research objectively measures owner recommendations with newly purchased or leased passenger cars or light trucks by ranking new owners' responses to the question "Would you recommend your new vehicle to a friend or relative? Scores are based on the responses, ranging from "Yes, definitely," "Yes, with reservations," or "No."

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EX earns TOP SAFETY PICK from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

Affording "superior overall crash protection among vehicles in its class," the all-new Infiniti EX35 has earned an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety TOP SAFETY PICK award for 2008 and 2009. With a highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), the EX35 was praised by Institute president Adrian Lund as a "leader in its class for state-of-the art-safety."