Why is the 2012 luxury Infiniti hybrid priced high at $53,700?

US automaker, Infiniti, has announced the launch of a luxe hybrid priced at $53,700. The 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid (M35h), which will go on sale starting March 16, is the first V6 luxury performance driver's hybrid offering over 350 horsepower and 32 mpg fuel economy.

The new model has paved its way into the newly emerging luxury hybrid car sector competing with the likes of Porsche and Rolls Royce.

The luxury auto-industry is observing a distinct change in strategies wherein, the focus is more on creating green models for the elite customer base.

We're excited to be able to bring in the new Infiniti M Hybrid - with its exceptional blend of power, efficiency, style, luxury and technology - at an M.S.R.P. of under $54,000, said Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore.

Apart from the hybrid version, Infiniti is also offering four non-hybrid models: Infiniti M37 RWD ($47,700), Infiniti M37 AWD ($49,850), Infiniti M56 RWD ($59,100) and Infiniti M56 AWD ($61,600).

Although the M35h is around for $6,600, more than the comparable M37, Ben maintains that the model will offer strong sales momentum.

The model features all-new Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system, an advanced one-motor and two-clutch parallel hybrid design that utilize high-speed motor control technology enabled by the powerful Lithium-ion battery, allowing power to be delivered directly to the vehicle's 7-speed automatic transmission.

Besides, the car is equipped with a list of standard luxury and technical features like leather-appointed seats, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Active Noise Control and Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition.