Sneak Peek: Infiniti Etheria Concept

Infiniti is an automaker headed in several directions at once. With a new IPL performance division on one side and the launch of the brand’s first hybrid vehicle, the 2012 M35 Hybrid, on the other, Infiniti appears to be straying from its comfort zone and attempting to cover all its bases. Now, confirming our earlier report, we have official word that the brand will debut a small concept car at the Geneva Motor Show that could slot beneath the current entry-level G series, should it make production.

Official details are slim. In fact, Infiniti doesn’t even specifically give the car a name. However, the images were named “Etheria,” leading us to believe that is what the concept version could be called. A press release simply gives the teaser images found here, along with a quote from Infiniti senior vice president Andy Palmer.

“Infiniti is currently examining concepts for a luxury performance car that will fit below the current G line,” said Palmer in the release. “Like every Infiniti, it will be completely different to anything currently offered by our rivals.”

Fortunately, we got the scoop early from a source familiar with the project, claiming that the concept will be Nissan-Renault’s first major project with new partner and Mercedes-Benz parent company, Daimler. The small car will take the form of a two-door coupe and will be a B- to C-segment car based on the same chassis as the next-gen Renault Megane and Nissan Tiida. Power will come from Mercedes’ 202-horsepower, 1.8-liter CGI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The final result will be the smallest car that Infiniti has yet produced.

Thanks to: Motor Trend