The entry-level luxury segment doesn’t get the attention of some of the various other segments, such as the luxury sports sedan category. Yet, attention from car lovers matters about as much to sales as one cloud on a sunny day. Photos on the covers of magazines are all well and good, but sales numbers are what really count.
The reason for this is the fact that companies don’t make a whole lot of money selling a few thousand super expensive machines with plush seats, loads of technology, and a massive motor. Sort of like Rolex and Timex, as one makes a better product, but the latter is far wealthier. So, with so many different automakers trying to soak up the sales of the entry-level luxury game, one would think that sales would be spread, but they’re not. One vehicle has maintained dominance over the herd, the Lexus ES.
In the past decade, Toyota has created 600,000 of these sedans in the U.S alone, with another 650,000 in the rest of the world. What makes this even better for the Japanese automaker is the lack of incentives that go along with the ES. These things are selling straight up.
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With a history of only three years, the Infiniti EX is entering the 2011 model year with a new 7-Speed automatic transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels, and other refinements. The 2011 Infiniti will be offered in four models: EX35 RWD, EX35 AWD, EX35 RWD Journey and EX35 AWD Journey, with prices ranging from $34,150 to $37,750.
Under the hood there is a VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine rated at 297 HP and 253 lb-ft of torque and mated to a new 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, DS mode with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM), and Adaptive Shift Control. This new transmission replaced the old 5-speed tranny and offers improved fuel economy.
Also new for 2011 is a new white color scheme for gauges and LCD instrument display and three new exterior colors: Arctic Blue, Midnight Garnet, and Graphite Shadow. Other features include standard 18-inch wheels and tires, RearView Monitor, premium audio system, power-up folding 2nd row seat, Lane Departure Prevention system (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), Distance Control Assist (DCA), and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW).
Press release after the jump.
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Not long after the debut of the all-new BMW X3 in Paris, BMW has announced the suggested retail pricing for the sporty SUV.
The entry level 240-horsepower X3 xDrive28i will be priced at $37,625, and arrives in dealer showrooms by the end of this year. The turbocharged, 300-horsepower X3 xDrive35i will have an MSRP of $41,925. Both prices include $875 Destination & Handling fees and feature the standard 8-speed automatic transmission along with BMW’s acclaimed xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. The 2011 models will also have a significant increase in all round value compared to their 2010 predecessor by sporting more standard equipment, including Bluetooth connectivity, iPod/USB interface, anti-theft alarm system, and - on the X3 xDrive35i - standard BMW Xenon Adaptive Headlights.
Produced exclusively at BMW’s newly upgraded Spartanburg, S.C. factory, the new X3 will be supported by a state-of-the-art ordering and manufacturing system. Customers will be able to make changes to their vehicle order up until six days prior to the start of production.
Nissan US have announced the asking price for the second generation Murano SUV. They are currently on sale in the various options and equipment levels as designated below, however, all are equipped with the same 260 BHP detuned 3.5 liter V6 from the 370Z and Xtronic CVT auto transmission. Our choice would be the diesel which, unfortunately, is not available in the US due to the poor gas mileage from the thirsty V6. Invest in a FWD model, if you’re not going off road, with the SV spec package. This package includes all that you really need without the novelties that you’ll get bored of, but will still be paying for.
As a little refresher, the 2011 Nissan Murano gets a new grille with a new, revised design and wide front headlights. It also comes with a wide hood that sweeps into the bodylines, powerful wheel arches, and an aggressive stance with available 20-inch wheels. The interior gets a new white meter color, new center stack colors, and added equipment to various trim levels.
Pricing starts from $28,500 USD to around $39,140 USD depending on how many ticks you make in the options list.
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Not much has changed for the Nissan Maxima since last year, so this little update will be short and sweet. For starters, in 2011 Nissan offers a new rolled edge tailpipe finisher, new smoked headlights (Sport models), new dark chrome grille (Sport models), and unique shiny gray interior stitching (Sport models). Nissan is also offering two new exterior colors; Metallic Slate and Brilliant Silver.
The 2011 Maxima will come standard with many little perks including a premium audio system, RearView Monitor and Nissan Hard Drive Navigation system with XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather (XM subscription required, sold separately), Voice Recognition and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive.
Prices haven’t changed all that much either. Last year the Maxima’s price began at about $30,460. This year the 2011 Nissan Maxima’s prices start at $30,810 for the S version and at $33,530 for the SV version, both on sale now. Both models are powered by a 290-HP 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve VQ-series V6 engine mated to a Xtronic CVT transmission with manual and “Ds” (drive sport) modes. Paddle shifters are also available.
Press release after the jump.
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