Infiniti to Add Hybrid Version of Large Crossover

Nissan Motor Co.'s Infiniti unit says the new hybrid powertrain option for its seven-passenger crossover vehicle will be 24% more fuel efficient than the standard version of the vehicle.

Infiniti will publicly introduce the $3,000 system in the QX60 the new name for the JX35 premium crossover that debuted last year at the New York auto show on March 27.

The QX60 Hybrid combines a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, 15-kW electric motor, lithium-ion battery and continuously variable transmission. All-wheel drive is optional.

Infiniti estimates the configuration will deliver a net 250 hp and achieve a city/highway U.S. fuel economy rating of 26 mpg. Those figures compare with 265 hp and 21 mpg for the standard QX60, which is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine.

The company says the system will give the hybrid QX60 lower emissions and superior driving range with "absolutely no compromise" in performance, interior roominess or cargo capacity.

Infiniti will offer hybrid powertrain options on two other 2014 models: the Q50 sport sedan (replacing the G37 sport sedan), which debuted at the Detroit auto show in January, and the Q70 large sedan, which replaces the current M Sedan.