Infiniti to Show Production-Ready Variable Compression Ratio Engine in Paris

Not quite a month after we told you about the next-generation Infiniti QX50 crossover variable compression ratio (VCR) engine, the Japanese upscale brand has announced it will show the world's first production-ready (VCR) motor in September at the Paris auto show.

As we explained in that QX50 piece, the engine, officially called VC-T, uses articulated connecting rods to vary the compression ratio -- a measurement of the distance an engine's piston travels from the bottom to the top of its stroke -- between a low of 8.0:1 and a high of 14.0:1.

Infiniti says the high-compression function will improve fuel economy in city driving, with the lower compression ratio being better suited to efficient highway driving, and that the VCR engine generates the power of a turbo 2.0L four-cylinder along with a "high level of efficiency."

Infiniti offers a 2.0L turbo in its Q50 sport sedan, but that Mercedes-Benz-sourced engine isn't top of the class power-wise with its 208 hp. Infiniti is doing more interesting things with its 3.0L turbocharged V6, which can be optioned in the Q50 in 300- and 400-hp specification.

The automaker says it will provide more information on its VCR engine tech when it present the engine in Paris; we hope that will include confirmation of what vehicle will get it under the hood, and when.