Infiniti
Born to Challenge: Nissan’s Bold Entry into the Luxury Arena
Introduction
Launched in 1989 alongside Lexus and Acura, Infiniti was Nissan’s ambitious answer to the established German and American luxury marques. While its competitors focused on traditional luxury, Infiniti carved its own path with a focus on powerful, driver-oriented cars, avant-garde design, and a unique brand philosophy inspired by the natural world. It became the home for Nissan’s most advanced technology and performance engines, creating a distinct identity built on driving excitement.
| Detail | Information |
| Founded | 1989 (First models launched as 1990 models) |
| Parent Company | Nissan Motor Company |
| HeadQuarters | Yokohama, Japan (Global HQ) |
| First Models | Q45 luxury sedan, M30 coupe (1989) |
| Brand Slogan | Inspired Performance |
Iconic Infiniti Engines
- VH45DE: 4.5L V8 (First-gen Q45). The engine that started it all. A sophisticated, dual-overhead-cam V8 that made 278 horsepower, outperforming many rivals at its launch.
- VQ Series (VQ35DE/HR, VQ37VHR): 3.5L & 3.7L V6 (G35, G37, M35, M37). The heart of the modern Infiniti brand. These award-winning, high-revving, and smooth V6 engines provided a perfect blend of performance and refinement.
- VR38DETT: 3.8L Twin-Turbo V6 (Nissan GT-R). While badged as a Nissan, this legendary hand-built engine is the pinnacle of Nissan’s performance technology, shared from its corporate cousin.
- VK56VD: 5.6L V8 (QX56, QX80). A powerful, variable-valve-timing V8 that provided strong, reliable power for Infiniti’s full-size SUVs.
Legendary Infiniti Models
- Infiniti Q45 (First Generation) (1989-1996): The flagship that launched the brand. Tech-packed with rear-wheel steering and a powerful V8, it was a bold statement against the Lexus LS400.
- Infiniti G35 (2002-2006): The car that saved Infiniti. This sporty sedan and coupe, sharing its FM platform and VQ engine with the Nissan 350Z, redefined the brand as a maker of driver’s cars and became a massive success.
- Infiniti G37 (2006-2013): The evolution of the G35. With a more powerful VQ37VHR engine, it solidified Infiniti’s reputation for sporty, luxurious, and reliable coupes and sedans.
- Infiniti M45 (Second Generation) (2005-2010): A powerful, V8-powered executive sedan that offered a potent and engaging alternative to the German sport-sedans of its era.
- Infiniti FX35/FX45 (2003-2008): The original “sports crossover.” With its coupe-like styling, powerful V6 or V8 engine, and sport-tuned chassis, it created an entirely new segment.
The G35 Revolution
After a rocky start in the 1990s, Infiniti’s revival is almost entirely credited to the 2003 G35. While competitors built soft luxury cars, Infiniti doubled down on performance. The G35 shared its rear-wheel-drive platform and high-revving V6 engine with the acclaimed Nissan 350Z sports car. This formula of sports car fundamentals in a luxury package resonated powerfully with a new generation of buyers, making the G35 a sales hit and permanently shifting Infiniti’s brand identity towards ‘Inspired Performance.