Infiniti QX60 Hybrid, Updated Hyundai Equus on Tap for New York

Infiniti will add a third hybrid-electric model to its lineup.

The hybrid version of the ’14 QX60 cross/utility vehicle, formerly known as the JX, will make its debut late this month at the 2013 New York auto show and go on sale in the U.S. this summer.

The QX60 hybrid joins the existing Q70 (formerly M) hybrid and the already-announced Q50 (formerly G) hybrid.

The new hybrid CUV will use a 2.5L supercharged engine mated to a 15-kW (20-hp) electric motor and continuously variable transmission, Infiniti says.

Fuel economy of 26 mpg (9.0 L/100 km) combined, 24% higher than non-hybrid QX60 models, is expected for the QX60 hybrid, as is a net horsepower of 250.

The QX60 hybrid, like the current Q70 HEV, will use a lithium-ion battery as a power source. The battery will be placed below the vehicle’s third-row seat, so as not to intrude on cargo volume, the auto maker says.

Infiniti expects the hybrid QX60 to begin $3,000 higher than non-hybrid models.

Pricing for the ’14 QX60 hasn’t been announced, but the ’13 JX starts at $41,250 for a front-wheel-drive model, and $42,650 for a vehicle with all-wheel drive.

JX sales through February stood at 4,270 units, higher than most other large, luxury, albeit 2-row CUVs, WardsAuto data shows. However, the JX trails the 3-row Acura MDX, which tallied 5,521 in the first two months of 2013.

Also in New York, Hyundai will unveil a refreshed version of its Equus near-luxury rear-wheel-drive sedan.

Details are scant on the ’14 model but Hyundai says to expect updated interior and exterior design, including new interior materials; changes to ride, handling and vehicle-control dynamics; and advanced safety features.

A teaser image released of the ’14 Equus shows a slightly modified front fascia.

Sales of the Equus were down 9.2% through February, to 523 units.