Blog

INFINITI's VC-Turbo engine, the world's first production variable compression ratio engine, was named to Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems list for the second year in a row. Award-Winning Innovation "When developing the VC-Turbo engine, we wanted to create a powertrain that had the power and performance of a far larger engine while still retaining the favorable fuel consumption of a turbocharged four-cylinder," said Jeff Pope, group vice president, INFINITI Americas. "This engine's ability to continuously adjust its compression based on driver's input allows it to provide peak performance in any given situation, making it an ideal engine for a variety of vehicles and applications." In the 26th year of Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsions Systems competition, the VC-Turbo engine was pitted against a wide range of new and significantly improved powertrains (26 nominees in all) from manufacturers around the world. Breakthrough Technology A breakthrough in combustion engine design, the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine adjusts its compression ratio to optimize power and efficiency. The VC-Turbo engine continuously changes its compression ratio with an advanced multi-link system by raising or lowering the pistons' reach, which provides the power and strength of a sprinter with the efficiency and endurance of a marathon runner. In operation, the QX50's VC-Turbo engine offers any compression ratio between 8:1 (for high performance) and 14:1 (for high efficiency). The engine delivers 268 hp at 5,600 rpm and 280 lb ft at 1,600 – 4,800 rpm. The VC-Turbo's specific power output is higher than many of its rivals' turbocharged gasoline engines, and it comes close to the performance of some V6 gasoline engines. The unit's single-scroll turbo also ensures immediate accelerator responses on demand. Design Benefits The VC-Turbo's favorable power-to-weight ratio and small overall size allows the cabin of the QX50 to be moved forward, providing significantly more overall interior space while accommodating sliding and reclining seats for rear passengers. The QX50 also boasts rear legroom of up to 38.7 inches and a trunk that can accommodate a stroller situated length-wise without letting down the back seats, with space for additional cargo.

Counterfeit auto parts have been flooding the market. They can fool even the most experienced eyes because they often carry trademarks and packaging of trusted brands. Instead of meeting an automaker's official standards, counterfeit parts are often dangerously inferior. A Growing Problem The National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, part of Immigration and Custom Enforcement, warns: "Law enforcement has identified a trend of counterfeited parts that is growing at an alarming rate." According to Bruce Foucart, NIPRCC acting director, "at best these parts will not perform as well as authentic parts. At worst, they can fail catastrophically with potentially fatal consequences." Serious Safety Concerns The results from counterfeit parts can be inconvenient at best, and as bad as catastrophic failure, an accident, or injury. Parts seized by the authorities have included maintenance items such as oil filters, air filters and spark plugs, and can quickly get into dangerous territory. Critical safety equipment including brake components, steering linkages, suspension parts, and engine parts are no place to take risks, and suspect parts have identified in all of those categories. The parts that are specifically designed for your vehicle are important in keeping you and your occupants safe. How to Protect Yourself How do you protect your vehicle, yourself, and your loved ones? One of the best ways is to use your dealer's service department. Not only can you expect the shelves of its parts department to be stocked with the most trustworthy parts, but the factory-trained technicians will know the ins and outs of your specific model. They work on vehicles like yours every single day and know exactly what needs to be done. Having a finely-tuned sense of caution can be helpful, as well. Carefully investigate offers which seem too good to be true. Considering that your vehicle is something you use almost every day, and you trust it to get you wherever you need to go safely, you need to be vigilant. With the support of your car's manufacturer, the service department at your dealership is the best way to ensure you're getting exactly what you paid for. Stop by today to find out if there are any specials going on and make sure your vehicle is being fitted with all the right parts. This article is presented by INFINITI of South Atlanta in Union City, GA.