Who makes the Infiniti car?
Nissan makes Infiniti cars. Launched in 1989 as the Japanese carmaker’s luxury vehicle division, Infiniti specialises in high-end cars and SUVs. However, it never really caught on in Europe and was withdrawn from the UK market in 2020.
Continue reading to find out more about this intriguing car brand!
The history of Infiniti
Timeline: From 1985 to present day
1985: Nissan forms the Horizon Task Force to establish a luxury vehicle division to target the American market.
1987: The name Infiniti is chosen!
1989: Infiniti officially launches in the U.S. with the Q45 luxury sedan and the M30 coupe.
1999: The G20 compact sedan is introduced, marking Infiniti’s expansion into more affordable luxury segments.
2002: The Infiniti G35 debuts, quickly becoming one of the brand’s most popular models due to its sporty performance and stylish design.
2008: The brand enters the European market, bringing its luxury vehicles to a broader audience.
2015: Nissan’s Sunderland plant is the sole factory for the Infiniti Q30 and QX30.
2020: The brand withdrew from Western Europe and the UK due to poor sales, and production ceased at Sunderland.
2021: Infiniti unveils plans for the all-electric QX Inspiration concept as it begins transitioning to electric vehicles.
Present day: The brand introduces the all-new QX80 as it looks to evolve with a growing lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles.
Where are Infiniti cars made?
Manufacturing facilities around the world
Infiniti operates manufacturing facilities worldwide to ensure high-quality production and meet regional demand. Key locations include:
| Location | Vehicles manufactured |
| Tochigi Plant – Kaminokawa, Japan | Infiniti Q5OInfiniti Q6O |
| Nissan Shatai Kyushu Plant – Yukuhashi, Japan | Infiniti QX80 |
| COMPAS Plant – Aguascalientes, Mexico | Infiniti QX50Infiniti QX55 |
| Smyrna Assembly – Tennessee, USA | Infiniti QX60 |
The significance of Japanese craftsmanship in making INFINITI cars
Japanese craftsmanship plays a pivotal role in designing and manufacturing INFINITI cars. The craftsmanship is rooted in a rich tradition of meticulous attention to detail and ensures that each vehicle embodies precision, elegance, and durability.
Master artisans, known as Takumi, apply their skills to create luxurious interiors and flawless exteriors. This dedication to quality enhances the driving experience and reflects the brand’s commitment to producing vehicles of exceptional value and beauty.
The diversity of INFINITI’s range
| Model | Type | Starting price | Highlights |
| Infiniti Q50 | Luxury sedan | £40,000 | – Sleek design – Advanced technology – Powerful performance |
| Infiniti QX80 | Full-size SUV | £75,000 | – Spacious interior – Luxury features – Strong towing capacity |
| Infiniti QX60 | Mid-size SUV | £55,000 | – Versatile seating – Elegant design – Family-friendly features |
| Infiniti Q60 | Sports coupe | £45,000 | – Dynamic driving experience – Sporty design – Premium materials |
FAQs
Why did Infiniti fail in the UK?
Infiniti struggled in the UK due to limited brand recognition, a crowded luxury market, and a lack of diesel engine options, which were in high demand then. Additionally, competition from established European luxury brands made it difficult for Infiniti to gain a foothold.
Are Infiniti cars good quality?
Yes, Infiniti cars are known for their high quality. They feature luxurious interiors, advanced technology, and reliable performance. Japanese craftsmanship ensures attention to detail, making INFINITI vehicles durable and well-built, though they may lack the prestige of some European rivals.
What’s the best used Infiniti car to buy?
The Infiniti Q50 is often considered the best used INFINITI to buy. It offers a blend of luxury, performance, and reliability. With its advanced features and strong resale value, the Q50 is popular for those seeking a high-quality, used luxury sedan.
Ready to sell?
Ready to learn more about valuing, maintaining, and selling your car? Check out our other guides here, covering everything from hybrid and electric car depreciation to converting your car to dual-LPG fuel.