Infiniti

NISSAN'S luxury brand is on course for a worldwide expansion after a considerably successful outing in the United States.

While all the Infiniti- badged cars are currently left-hand-drives, the brand will have right-hand models from next April, starting with the British market.

Going by that timetable, Singapore may just get its first shipment of Infinitis by mid-2010.

As we made our rounds meeting the Nissan boffins at various cocktail receptions, we managed to gather more juicy news

Elgrand

TAN Chong Motors is expected to introduce this luxury minivan to Singapore in time for the opening of the first integrated resort next year.

The Elgrand is perhaps one of the most bling-bling people-haulers made, with business-class seating for all rear occupants. Equipped with a 3.5-litre V6, it is a hoot to drive with or without passengers.

Grand Livina

A POPULAR family MPV in the Indonesian and Malaysian markets, where the vehicle is made, the Grand Livina may find

its way to Singapore if market conditions are right.

Built on the same platform as the Sylphy, the Grand Livina is a no-frills vehicle. Do not even expect the level of luxury in a Lafesta.

That said, the car has the potential to become a budget family hauler - always a welcome recipe.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on May 10, 2008.