Infiniti G and Mercedes C to Share Platforms

2014 is going to be a big year for Infiniti, as the brand's relationship with Mercedes-Benz continues to blossom.The new Daimler and Renault-Nissan alliance will result in the sharing of several engines and platforms, and according to a Japanese source close to Infiniti, the next-gen Mercedes RWD C Class platform will be used for the next-gen Infiniti G, due out in the summer of 2014. Changes will be made to the platform, including adding two inches to the wheelbase in order to create more interior space.As for the design, the source revealed to Motor Trend that the new G will have a front end closely resembling the Etherea concept and have a bold muscular stance and lower roofline for a more coupe-like appearance. A year after the sedan, a coupe will arrive and a crossover similar to an EX is under consideration.A Nissan-developed powertrain based on the VQ series engine block will be on offer, as will a Mercedes-sourced 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel good for more than 200hp and 360lb-ft of torque.This engine will power the Infiniti M destined for Europe, but is unlikely to make it stateside.A 3.5-liter V6 hybrid will also be offered, as will a brand-new 3.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that's being developed for the IPL range of high-performance vehicles.It will generate north of 530hp targeting the likes of the M3 and C63 AMG and be built at the same plant as the Nissan GT-R in Tochigi, Japan, where the GT-R and IPL engines are hand-made. When it hits Japanese showrooms it will be priced around the 10 million yen mark (or $125,000).