Does INFINITI Still Make Cars? | Current Models

Yes, INFINITI continues to manufacture and sell a range of luxury vehicles, primarily focusing on SUVs, crossovers, and a sedan for the US market.

It’s a fair question, especially with the automotive landscape shifting so much lately. You might not see as many INFINITI commercials as some other brands, but rest assured, they’re still very much in the game, building vehicles with that distinct blend of luxury and performance. Think of them as a well-tuned engine, quietly delivering power and refinement on the road.

Does INFINITI Still Make Cars? A Look at Their Current Lineup

INFINITI maintains a focused lineup designed to meet the demands of luxury buyers, with a strong emphasis on Utility Vehicles (UVs). Their current offerings for the US market include several popular crossovers and SUVs, alongside a single sedan model that continues to appeal to enthusiasts.

Sedans: The Q50

• The Q50 remains INFINITI’s core sedan offering. It’s known for its engaging driving dynamics and available twin-turbo V6 engine, providing a spirited experience that some drivers prefer over the growing SUV trend.
• It competes in the compact luxury sedan segment, offering a balance of comfort and sportiness.

Crossovers and SUVs: The Core of the Brand

The majority of INFINITI’s sales and development efforts are concentrated on its SUV and crossover range, reflecting broader market preferences.

• QX50: A compact luxury crossover that introduced INFINITI’s innovative Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine. This engine adjusts its compression ratio to prioritize either power or fuel efficiency, a mechanical marvel.
• QX55: This is a “coupe-style” crossover, essentially a sportier, sloped-roof variant of the QX50. It shares much of its underpinnings and powertrain with the QX50 but offers a distinct aesthetic.
• QX60: A mid-size, three-row luxury SUV designed for families, offering more interior space and comfort. It received a significant redesign recently, enhancing its appeal with a more refined interior and updated technology.
• QX80: The flagship full-size luxury SUV, known for its commanding presence, powerful V8 engine, and spacious, opulent interior. It’s built for those who need substantial towing capacity and passenger room without compromising on luxury.

The INFINITI Identity: Luxury, Performance, and Design

INFINITI, as Nissan’s luxury division, has always aimed to combine Japanese precision with a distinctive design language and a focus on driver engagement. This approach is evident across their model range, from the athletic Q50 to the imposing QX80.

Design Philosophy

INFINITI’s design language, often described as “Powerful Elegance,” features flowing lines, double-arch grilles, and crescent-shaped D-pillars. These elements give their vehicles a recognizable and sophisticated appearance on the road.

Performance Heritage

Many INFINITI models, particularly the Q50 and QX50, are equipped with potent engines. The Q50’s Red Sport 400 variant, for example, delivers 400 horsepower from its twin-turbo V6, demonstrating a commitment to performance. The VC-Turbo engine in the QX50 and QX55 showcases their engineering prowess in balancing power and efficiency.

Manufacturing and Market Presence

INFINITI vehicles for the US market are primarily manufactured in Japan and Mexico, with some models having specific production locations. This global manufacturing footprint allows them to maintain quality standards and meet demand efficiently.

Production Locations

• Many key models, including the Q50 and QX50, are produced in Japan.
• The QX60, a popular family SUV, is assembled at Nissan’s plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, highlighting a local manufacturing presence for a significant model.

INFINITI maintains a network of dealerships across the United States, providing sales, service, and parts support. This ensures that owners have access to specialized care for their vehicles.

Current INFINITI Model Overview (US Market)

Model	Vehicle Type	Primary Engine Option
Q50	Luxury Sedan	3.0L Twin-Turbo V6
QX50	Compact Luxury Crossover	2.0L VC-Turbo I4
QX55	Coupe-Style Crossover	2.0L VC-Turbo I4
QX60	Mid-Size Luxury SUV	3.5L V6
QX80	Full-Size Luxury SUV	5.6L V8

Engine Tech and Drivetrain Insights

Under the hood, INFINITI vehicles employ a range of robust powertrains designed for both performance and reliability. Understanding these systems can help owners appreciate the engineering behind their vehicle.

VC-Turbo Engine

The 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine found in the QX50 and QX55 is a technological highlight. It’s the world’s first production variable compression ratio engine, capable of seamlessly changing its compression ratio between 8:1 (for performance) and 14:1 (for efficiency). This mechanical complexity allows for impressive fuel economy without sacrificing power when needed.

V6 and V8 Powerplants

• The Q50 features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, part of the VR-series, which is a direct descendant of Nissan’s legendary VQ engine family. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness.
• The QX60 utilizes a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, a proven engine known for its durability and smooth operation, paired with a conventional automatic transmission.
• The QX80 relies on a powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine, providing ample torque for towing and confident acceleration, characteristic of full-size luxury SUVs.

Transmission and Drivetrain

INFINITI vehicles typically use either a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or a conventional automatic transmission. The QX50 and QX55 utilize a CVT, optimized to work with the VC-Turbo engine for smooth power delivery and efficiency. The Q50, QX60, and QX80 employ traditional automatic transmissions, often with paddle shifters for manual control.

Most models offer Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as an option or standard, which can provide enhanced traction and stability, especially in varied weather conditions. This system actively monitors road conditions and can distribute power between the front and rear axles as needed, a feature that can be particularly reassuring during inclement weather or when navigating tricky road surfaces. According to the NHTSA, advanced drivetrain systems like AWD can contribute to overall vehicle stability and control, particularly in adverse driving conditions.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance Systems

Modern INFINITI vehicles come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance technologies. These systems are designed to enhance driver awareness, prevent accidents, and protect occupants.

Key Safety Technologies

• ProPILOT Assist: This system combines intelligent cruise control with steering assist to help manage acceleration, braking, and steering in single-lane highway driving.
• Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system monitors the area in front of the vehicle and can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a frontal collision.
• Blind Spot Intervention: Beyond just warning of vehicles in the blind spot, this system can gently apply the brakes to help guide the vehicle back into its lane if an unsafe lane change is attempted.
• Lane Departure Prevention: This system helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing subtle steering adjustments.
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Useful when backing out of parking spaces, it warns the driver of approaching vehicles from either side.

These features, along with robust structural designs and multiple airbags, contribute to the overall safety ratings of INFINITI vehicles. Many of these systems are standard or available across the lineup, reflecting a commitment to occupant protection.

The Ownership Experience: Reliability and Resale Value

Owning an INFINITI generally comes with expectations of luxury, comfort, and a certain level of performance. The brand’s reputation for reliability is often tied to its Nissan roots, which are known for producing dependable vehicles.

Reliability Considerations

INFINITI vehicles typically leverage proven Nissan platforms and powertrains, which often translates to solid long-term reliability. Regular maintenance, as outlined in the owner’s manual, is crucial for preserving the vehicle’s condition and ensuring its longevity. Adhering to service schedules for oil changes, fluid checks, and component inspections helps prevent unexpected issues.

Resale Value

Like all luxury brands, INFINITI’s resale value can vary based on several factors, including the specific model, trim level, condition, mileage, and market demand. While not always leading the segment, INFINITI models generally hold their value reasonably well. Resources like Kelley Blue Book provide detailed valuation tools that consider these factors, offering insights into a vehicle’s potential resale price.

Key Powertrain Options by Model (Example)

Model	Engine Type	Horsepower (Approx.)
Q50 (Red Sport)	3.0L Twin-Turbo V6	400 hp
QX50	2.0L VC-Turbo I4	268 hp
QX60	3.5L V6	295 hp

What’s Next for INFINITI?

INFINITI is actively planning for the future, with a clear direction towards electrification and continued refinement of its luxury offerings. The automotive industry is in a period of significant change, and INFINITI is positioning itself to adapt.

The brand has showcased concept vehicles that hint at future design language and powertrain technologies, including battery-electric vehicles. This indicates a strategic shift to remain competitive in an evolving market, ensuring that INFINITI continues to offer appealing options to luxury car buyers in the years ahead.