Infiniti introduces new turbo engine with better fuel efficiency

Infiniti’s new VC-T engine will be last hurrah for gas engines and it’s not one to go down with a whimper. Image Infiniti

Before hybrid and pure electric cars take over the roads to replace traditional gas-guzzlers, Infiniti introduces what may very well be its last foray into gas engines, the first-ever production variable compression turbo (VC-T) engine.

This new VC-T will be installed on the next-generation QX50 crossover when it becomes available in 2017. It promises to drastically improve fuel efficiency without compromising the vehicle’s performance.

The engine works by automatically adjusting the height that the engine’s pistons reach. On full throttle, the system lowers the ratio to make the most of the turbo while cruising raises the ratio to get better mileage. The VC-T is also lighter and smaller than Nissan’s widely used 3.5-litter V6 engine. Due to its size, Nissan is contemplating on pairing it with a hybrid system.

More information about the VC-T will be made available once it is presented at the Mondial de l’Automobile on September 29 in Paris, France.  Alfred Bayle