Infiniti released first images of its concept car for the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Infiniti Etherea Concept is a compact luxury model that previews how a future entry-level Infiniti could look.
The pictures show an evolving Infiniti identity along with a profile distinctly different from anything currently available in the premium compact class.
"Infiniti Etherea is about a new type of luxury for younger buyers," said Toru Saito, Corporate Vice President and Leader of the Global Infiniti Business Unit. "It is not just a smaller version of a typically conservative and traditional luxury car."
Designed under the direction of Senior Vice President of Design Shiro Nakamura, Infiniti Etherea Concept blends elements of coupé, sedan, hatchback and even crossover in one highly sculptural, near-mono volume form.
At 4.4m it is highly compact but at the same time it is space efficient and practical thanks to a new mechanical layout and innovative access arrangements.
Among its surprises are high-tech new interpretations of traditional Japanese materials and finishes, and several design cues set to make their mark on future production models - including the highly distinctive crescent-shaped C-pillar first seen on the Essence concept.
