NISSAN CANADA - There are hybrids and then there are hybrids. The sole hybrid powerplant to be honoured by WardsAuto.com and WardsAuto World magazine in their 2012 "10 Best Engines" list happens to be the one that challenges conventional wisdom about the compatibility of performance and fuel economy – the 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid's innovative 3.5-litre V6 with Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system.
Offering 360 horsepower and 6.1 L/100 km highway fuel economy, the Infiniti M Hybrid system utilizes an advanced 1-motor, 2-clutch parallel hybrid design and high-speed motor control technology to enable seamless transitions between the combustion engine and electric motor.
"The Infiniti M hybrid is pure exhilaration in a world of uninspired hybrids, delivering the power of a luxury V8 engine with the fuel economy of a 4-cylinder," said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. "Able to accelerate from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in under 6.0 seconds, and capable of driving at speeds of 100 kilometres per hour in pure electric mode, it's the one hybrid worthy of the Infiniti name – and, apparently, Ward's recognition."
The WardsAuto editors called out the design of the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system for its combination of "a single 50-kW (67 hp) electric motor linked to a powerful lithium-ion battery pack." The editors also noted "the M35h trumps German luxury hybrid sedans that cost much more."
To be eligible for the "10 Best Engines" award, each engine must be available in a regular-production U.S.-specific model on sale no later than first-quarter 2012, in a vehicle with a base price below $55,000.
The full article on the awards testing and results will be available online at WardsAuto.com on January 3rd. The awards will be presented at a ceremony during the North American International Auto Show on January 12th.