Japanese auto maker Infiniti has unveiled its new QX50 mid-size crossover, fitted with a groundbreaking variable compression ratio engine, at the Los Angeles auto show. The QX50’s 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine adjusts its compression ratio to optimize power and efficiency.
VC-Turbo technology uses an advanced multi-link system to seamlessly raise or lower the stroke of the pistons, detecting the car’s driving condition and driver inputs, and instantly selecting the most suitable compression ratio, this means that the unit is able to offer any compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1.
By combining the power of a turbocharged gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel engine, this development challenges the notion that only hybrid and diesel powertrains can deliver high torque and efficiency.
“The 2019 QX50 is the most important vehicle we have ever launched, and it embodies everything the brand stands for: beautiful design, advanced technology and empowering performance,” said Christian Meunier, vice president at Infiniti. “As a luxury mid-size crossover, it’s the right vehicle at the right time in one of the world’s fastest-growing segments.”
The OEM claims the engine can achieve lower levels of noise and vibration than conventional internal combustion engines, particularly diesel, and that it is lighter and more compact than V6 units with comparable power outputs.
“Vehicle engineers believe that a breakthrough in internal combustion technology would come from mastering the variable compression ratio,” added Roland Krueger, president at Infiniti. “Infiniti will be the first to bring this technology to the market in 2018. This new generation of powertrains will help our global growth and expansion of the Infiniti product portfolio.”