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Infiniti planning to take on Porsche Panamera

Infiniti planning to make the Essence Concept (pictured) in to a Panamer-like Coupe Back in 2009 – ahead of Infiniti launching in Europe – the Infiniti Essence arrived at the Geneva Motor Show as an illustration of what we could expect to see from Infiniti in the future. That was four years ago, but now it looks like the Essence may be on its way to production – after a slight stretch and the acquisition of a couple of extra doors – after Andy Palmer, Nissan’s VP for Future Products, told Automotive News Infiniti is planning a range-topping flagship to take on the Porsche Panamera. The Essence seems a good starting point for that mission; it’s already a big (over 15′ long) swoopy-coupe with a hybrid powerplant consisting of a 3.7 litre turbo V6 and electric motor combination good for 590bhp.

Tokyo Motor Show: Lexus RC Coupe

JAPANESE car maker Lexus has unveiled a new two-door coupe at the Tokyo show. Designed to appeal to a broader range of customers than the usual Lexus buyer profile, the car has been shown with both petrol and petrol-electric hybrid power. Based on the look of the LF-LC concept first shown at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show, this car boasts a long, low-slung profile but with seats for four.

Mini electric test delayed by surge of applicants

Mini USA is taking longer than expected to select 450 lessees for its electric car because of the deluge of about 1,800 applicants. Drivers who are chosen are expected to get cars in April. The program originally had been expected to begin at the start of the year.