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85-609: The Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) , Red Sport and Infiniti S marques represent the high-performance divisions of cars produced by Infiniti . In July 2010 Infiniti released its new performance division, Infiniti Performance Line (IPL). The debut IPL offering is the G37 Coupe for 2011 model year, and later the G37 Convertible. The Infiniti G37 (later branded as the Infiniti Q60 ) were offered as IPL models. The IPL models featured

170-724: A mid-luxury sedan to match the first Japanese luxury sedan introduced to North America, the Acura Legend , which was later joined by the Lexus GS . Infiniti's first offering in the entry-level luxury segment was the Infiniti J30 , which had to compete with the revised 1992 Lexus ES and was unsuccessful owing to its small interior and unusual styling to which it was succeeded in 1996 by the Infiniti I series introduced previously in April 1995, related to

255-586: A multi-link beam rear suspension with a Scott Russell linkage , front and rear stabilizer bars, and speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering. The Sport option included a system marketed as Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) which made engine changes and deployed a brake to inhibit sliding behavior. Specifications included 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission; and an electronic traction control system, and engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, now with

340-595: A 278 hp (207 kW; 282 PS) V8 engine, four wheel steering , and active suspension system offered on the first generation Q45t. The car's features would have made it competitive in the full-sized "luxury" segment against the Mercedes S-Class , BMW 7 Series , Jaguar XJ and Cadillac Fleetwood . A second model was introduced in November 1989, the two-door M30 , a badge engineered Nissan Leopard . It remained in production for three years as an alternative to

425-570: A 40' turning radius. Interior features included leather-appointed seats (marketed as Sojourner premium leather, at least in one instance reportedly developed in Florence, Italy) with seatback embroidered Infiniti logo (2003-2004); simulated birdseye maple accents on the center console (expanded to include vertical ashtray and surround 2003-2004) and leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, eight-way power-adjustable driver seat with manual lumbar support; driver's seat automatic entry/exit system that moves

510-675: A Bose 200-watt, 7-speaker premium audio system with AM/FM in-dash 6-disc CD changer, steering wheel audio controls, speed-sensitive volume control, radio RDS function and dual in-glass diversity antennas; power-operated rear sunshade, 8-way power driver's seat and 4-way power passenger's seat; High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlights, body-color outside door handles; electromagnetic trunk and fuel door release, remote keyless entry with fob-operated front window auto-down and key operated up/down; retained accessory power; automatic anti-glare rearview mirror with integrated digital compass, and lockable split- folding rear seats. Options groups included

595-609: A dealer accessory on the non-Touring I30. Nissan updated the I30 for model year 2002 as the I35 (A33) for its Infiniti luxury division, launching the model with an estimated $ 40 million advertising campaign beginning in September 2001. Sales began on September 12, 2001 at 150 retailers across the United States, continuing its role as a badge engineered Cefiro positioned above another Cefiro variant,

680-455: A design that is currently maintained by the designers. By the mid-1990s, Infiniti was lagging behind Lexus and Acura in sales. The Q45 had retreated considerably from its focused, taut rendition of a sporty full-size luxury sedan, having become a barely recognizable, ponderously handling sedan that earned the nickname "The Japanese Lincoln". In the summer of 1998, Infiniti revived the G20 , based on

765-872: A diesel model. In 2013, Infiniti's model designation changed to the coupes and sedans starting with the letter Q, the SUVs and crossovers starting with the letters QX, and a number reflecting the model's place in the brand lineup. The M sedan became the Q70, the G coupe became the Q60, and the G sedan became the Q50; meanwhile, the QX56 became the QX80, the FX became the QX70, the JX became the QX60 and

850-836: A heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. Individual options included 8-spoke chrome-finished 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; navigation system with power-retractable color LCD screen, trunk-mounted 6-disc CD autochanger; side sill extensions: side rocker sill moldings, rear spoiler and a full-size spare tire with aluminum-alloy wheel (reducing available cargo room). Exterior colors included Brilliant Silver (silver, 2002-2004), Ivory Pearl (white, 2002-2004), Golden Sand (light gold, 2002-2004), Black Obsidian (black, 2002-2004), Midnight Blue (dark metallic blue, 2002-2004), Millennium Jade (light metallic green, 2002-2003), Royal Ruby (dark maroon, 2002), Autumn Bronze (brown, 2002-2004), Diamond Graphite (dark gray metallic, 2003-2004), Desert Platinum metallic (medium gold, 2004). Interior "Sojourner" leather

935-543: A larger SUV to compete with the Toyota Land Cruiser /Lexus LX470. This was the 2004 Infiniti QX56 based on the U.S. market Nissan Armada . Nissan Motors President and CEO, Carlos Ghosn , developed a business strategy to break Infiniti away from its Nissan roots. The G series helped re-define Infiniti as the "Japanese BMW", as it was aimed directly at the BMW 3 Series of sedans and coupes. The M35/M45 garnered acclaim from

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1020-570: A name change to the vehicle, which became the I35. Sales and the brand, bereft of an image or a following, floundered. By 2000, large Japanese companies were feeling the effect of the Japanese asset price bubble , and the reduced desirability of Infinitis led to it facing extinction. The company rededicated itself to developing a dynamic and powerful line-up of sporty luxury cars. This coincided with parent company Nissan entering into an alliance with Renault under

1105-619: A new compact car named Q30 in 2015. In mid-2019, the Sunderland plant ceased assembly of Infiniti vehicles in the United Kingdom. Johan de Nysschen was appointed to head the Infiniti division in 2012. De Nysschen left the company as of August 2014 to become CEO of Cadillac . Infiniti Chairman Andy Palmer assumed de Nysschen's responsibilities. Nissan appointed Roland Krüger, former head of BMW 's Asian division, as president of Infiniti after

1190-515: A number reflecting engine displacement. For example, the QX56 was an SUV featuring a 5.6L engine. An exception to this was the QX4 SUV, which featured a 3.3L engine (1996–2000) and later a 3.5L engine (2000–2003). An " x " following the engine displacement of Infiniti sedans denoted an all wheel drive model (e.g. Infiniti G35x ), " s " denoted a sport package, " h " denoted a hybrid model, and " d " denoted

1275-437: A power moon roof. By 2004, Nissan introduced another new trim called "300EX". The "300EX" is now powered by Nissan's 3.0-litre VQ30DE V6 engine paired to a standard automatic transmission with sport mode. It featured different wheel designs, leather interior & seats, keyless entry, rear armrests, rear aircon vents, factory fitted alarm, immobilizer, power rear windshield sun visor, among other features. Infiniti launched

1360-552: A result of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine , effectively ending all production in Russia, exports into Russia and Belarus, and new car sales of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles in those countries as a result of huge sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus by the European Union, Japan, United Kingdom, and the United States. Infiniti's former model name designation included one letter for coupés and sedans , two letters for SUVs , and

1445-616: A retuned engine producing 348 hp (260 kW) (353 PS) and 276 lb-ft (374 NM) of torque. Performance improvements included a redesigned exhaust system, sportier suspension tuning, as well as a more direct steering feel. Design changes were made to the exterior including more aggressive front/rear bumpers and sideskirts, sportier 19 inch alloy wheels, and larger exhaust tips. Inside, the G37 IPL has red Monaco leather seats. The IPL G37 Coupe and Convertible are only available in 3 colors; Graphite Shadow gray metallic, Moonlight white (QAA) and Malbec Black. Like

1530-640: A shorter wheelbase, and replaced the Nissan Stanza . Brand new, the Cefiro was slightly more expensive than the equivalent Nissan Skyline/Laurel and benefited from Project 901 offered for the first time projector beam headlights, automatic tinting rear vision cabin mirror , electrically adjustable seats , automatic headlights, and steering wheel mounted radio controls. HICAS-II four-wheel steering, " Super Sonic Suspension " or ATTESA E-TS suspension packages could be ordered separately but not combined. The suspension

1615-446: A variable induction system, a silent timing chain, an electronically controlled throttle, micro-finished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum-coated lightweight pistons, a resin intake collector, digital knock control, six individual coils (one per spark plug), a cross-flow coolant pattern, electronically controlled fluid mounts, and double platinum-tipped spark plugs. The I35 featured MacPherson strut and coil spring front suspension,

1700-522: A well established reputation with premium level performance sedans after Nissan acquired the Prince Motor Company and integrated the Nissan Skyline , Nissan Laurel and Nissan Gloria , originally Prince vehicles, in 1966–1968. A sports sedan replacing its Nissan Primera -based predecessor (the G20 ), the Nissan Skyline -based Infiniti G35, was successful after it was voted Motor Trend Car of

1785-470: Is powered by Nissan's 2.0-litre VQ20DE V6 engine paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission. In 2000, Nissan introduced an all-new trim, "Brougham VIP," borrowed from the Nissan Cedric and Gloria top-trim level packages. The "Brougham VIP" is powered by the same 2.0L V6 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. It featured a redesigned grill, headlight & taillight. By 2002, a new "Elite" trim

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1870-671: The 2008 Geneva Motor Show . The official launch was late 2008, and was phased over a two-year period across 21 European countries. Four models are offered in Europe: the next generation of the Infiniti FX 37 and Infiniti FX 50 performance SUV, the Infiniti G37 , the Infiniti G37 coupe, and the Infiniti EX 37 crossover. Infiniti Europe's headquarters are in Rolle, Switzerland. Carlos Ghosn unveiled

1955-634: The Cefiro nameplate - derived from the name given in Greek mythology to the god of "the wind from the west" - in 1988; the nameplate was officially retired in 2012. Most of the information in this section was translated from the Nissan Cefiro article on Japanese Misplaced Pages at ja:日産・セフィーロ . Nissan released the A31 series Cefiro sedan to Japan on September 1, 1988, sharing its transmission, chassis, engine and suspension with

2040-592: The Infiniti M at a hotel in Los Angeles. It shares the VQ37VHR from the Infiniti G , and Nissan 370Z . Featured are new powertrains: the 5.6 L V8 ( VK56VD ) with VVEL , Gasoline direct injection , the Nissan-Renault V9X Engine V6 Turbo Diesel (only for Europe), and the newly developed hybrid that includes one electric motor and two clutches to allow the gas engine and electric motor to drive

2125-664: The Lexus ES and Lexus RX . More importantly, the JX was meant to give Infiniti a credible rival to the Acura MDX and BMW X5 crossovers that offer optional three-row seating. In 2012, Infiniti moved its global headquarters from the Nissan corporate building in Yokohama and incorporated in Hong Kong as Infiniti Global Limited , with Carlos Ghosn intending for Infiniti to have a greater focus on

2210-590: The Lexus SC . The powertrain was the VG30E 162 hp (121 kW; 164 PS) engine and an automatic transmission. The M30 coupe was underpowered for its stock weight of 3,333 lb (1,512 kg). The M30 convertible weighed even more, due to the required body and chassis reinforcements. The appearance of the M30 had almost no resemblance to the larger Q45, and the interior was almost completely different. Infiniti did not offer

2295-593: The Maxima badge. The A32 was marketed as the "Nissan Maxima QX" in Europe. The 2- and 3-liter engines were offered in export markets, while the mid-range 2.5 was only available in the home market. The Cefiro received a light facelift in January 1997, including new multi-reflector head- and taillights. Sportier models received black backing in the headlamps, while more comfort-oriented versions were chromed. There were also minor changes to

2380-604: The Nissan Maxima and in 2002 by the Infiniti G35 . Infiniti's global network includes over 230 dealers in 15 countries. In September 1990, Infiniti introduced a third model, the Infiniti G20 , derived from the compact and European-focused Nissan Primera . In 1992 for the 1993 model year, Infiniti introduced a four-door coupé J30 with only one engine option, the 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS) VG30DE . This engine

2465-754: The QX30 and Q30 produced at the Nissan factory in Sunderland were to cease production. Similarly, on September 3, 2019, it was announced that Infiniti would leave Australia and New Zealand due to slow sales in the region. Accordingly, Infiniti left the European (with the exception of Caucasus, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine), South African, Australian, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysian, Singaporean, South Korean, and Vietnamese markets in 2020. In South Korea, sales of Nissan and Infiniti had dropped after "consumer sentiment against Japanese products intensified", leading to both marques being discontinued there, as

2550-463: The Renault engines for Red Bull Racing for the 2011 Formula One season . As of 2011, the G Series (consisting of the sedan, coupe, and convertible) accounted for 60% of sales. This was attributed to their SUVs (including crossovers) which were seen as aimed at the narrowest of niches, a lost opportunity as SUVs were popular in the U.S. market. In contrast, at archrival Lexus, SUVs contributed half of

2635-660: The Sunroof and Sunshade Package with moonroof (with variable control switch in place of a rocker-type switch) and rear power sunshade (optional 2002-2003, standard equipment 2004); Cold Weather Package with heated front (and rear, Canada) seats, leather-wrapped heated steering wheel (with deleted simulated maple accents) and heated outside mirrors with timer; and Sport package with 8-spoke champagne-tinted 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and P225/50R17 V-rated tires, Vehicle Dynamic Control, sport-tuned suspension and side sill extensions. Canadian I35 content varied, including as standard equipment

Infiniti Performance Line - Misplaced Pages Continue

2720-491: The 1970s. The model code "A31" was chosen as the number combination "A30" was previously used by the 1967–1971 Nissan Gloria soon after Nissan had merged with the Prince Motor Company . The Cefiro took the top-level position at Nissan Satio Store as its exterior dimensions were the same as the luxury sedans Nissan Cedric (exclusive to Nissan Store ) and the Nissan Gloria (exclusive to Nissan Prince Store ) locations on

2805-712: The 2007 model year a redesigned version of the G35 sedan was launched, followed in August 2007 by a new version of the company's G coupe, the G37. The coupe was first unveiled at the New York International Auto Show in April 2007. Also released in (December) 2007 was new Infiniti EX35 compact crossover, Infiniti's entry into the compact luxury crossover market. The EX shared the G35's 3.5-liter, 306 hp (228 kW), V6 engine. Carlos Ghosn unveiled Infiniti's arrival in Europe at

2890-504: The 3.0-liter VQ30DE V6 engine producing 190 hp (142 kW) with the North American Maxima. Revisions to the I30 over the generation included revised tail lights and trunk garnish. The Touring model, I30t, gained five-spoke alloy wheels, more firm suspension tuning, and a spoiler and BBS wheels. A small number of first-generation I30s had five-speed manual transmissions , many with VLSD . An in-dash hands-free car phone

2975-494: The A31 with revised tail lights, center console, grill, and cabin fabrics. Also available from 1990 were "SE" models, featuring revised taillights, a silver grill, revised bumpers, a center console, and an updated interior. Nissan debuted the A32 series Cefiro for the domestic Japanese market in August 1994. Generally, the A32 was only badged as the Cefiro for the JDM; exported A32s often carried

3060-543: The A31, 1988-1994), used rear-wheel drive; offered four- and six-cylinder engines; and became popular in motorsport drifting . The second generation (A32, 1995-1998) and third generation (A33, 1995-2004) used exclusively a front-wheel drive and V6 engine drivetrain. After the A31, A32 and A33 generations, Nissan would also later use the Cefiro nameplate on examples of its first generation Teana (J31) sedan — exported to Asian and Latin American markets. Nissan began using

3145-559: The A33 as the Nissan Maxima QX with the 2.0 and 3.0 V6 engines, producing 140 and 200 PS (103 and 147 kW) respectively. In most Southeast Asian countries, the A33 was manufactured until 2008 as the 3.0 Brougham VIP and Excimo 2.0 G under license by Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd in Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia . In Taiwan , the A33 version was manufactured by Yulon and marketed as

3230-679: The Cefiro A31 in Latin America, Turkey, Gulf States and other Eurasian countries as the Nissan Laurel Altima – in most export markets this slot was replaced by the Nissan Maxima . Unlike the Japanese versions, export models are fitted with a carbureted single cam CA20S inline-four producing 102 hp (76 kW) and RB24 engine which was a single-cam 2.4-liter RB inline-six producing 141 hp (105 kW). 1990 Nissan facelifted

3315-722: The Cefiro as a comparable fourth alternative to the Laurel, Skyline, and Leopard models, selling each vehicle at a separate Nissan dealership ( Nissan Store for the Laurel and the Leopard coupe, Nissan Prince Store for the Skyline, and Nissan Satio Store for the Cefiro). This marketing approach of offering four different versions of the exact vehicle was used earlier with the Nissan Bluebird/Auster/Stanza/Violet RWD sedans during

3400-558: The Cefiro in North America as the Infiniti I30 for model year 1996, manufactured at Oppama , Japan (where the Maxima was built), commencing June 27, 1995. To reduce ambiguity in the nameplate, the rear I30 emblem used two fonts: a cursive letter "I" combined with a serif font for the "30", eliminating the possibility the emblem would be read as 130". As Infiniti's top seller then,

3485-744: The Cefiro used Nissan's VQ six-cylinder engines, named Ward's 10 Best Engines more than ten years running. Nissan marketed the Cefiro in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) as well as worldwide, the latter under numerous badge-engineered nameplates, including as the Nissan Maxima (North America, Australia), Samsung SM5 (Korea), Infiniti I30 and Infiniti I35 (North America) and Maxima QX (Europe, Russia). Models manufactured under license were marketed in Indonesia , Kuala Lumpur and Taiwan . The first generation Cefiro (internally designated

Infiniti Performance Line - Misplaced Pages Continue

3570-450: The Cefiro, the last Nissan Cefiro manufactured by Yulon. In Iran , Pars Khodro manufactured the A33 under license from 2002 to 2012, under the Maxima nameplate. In Indonesia , versions were marketed from 2000 to 2002 as the Infiniti I30 Standard and Touring. Later models from 2002 to 2003 was marketed as Nissan Cefiro 3.0 Brougham VIP. Infiniti based the MY 2000 I30 on the A33 Cefiro. Engine power increased to 227 hp (169 kW) and

3655-407: The EX became the QX50. In August 2010, Infiniti unveiled its new performance marque named Infiniti Performance Line , or IPL. In 1996, Nissan launched an effort to compete in the Indy Racing League with the Infiniti brand. The engine chosen for the Indy cars was a racing variant of the VH engine used in the production Q45s . Eddie Cheever resulted third in the 2000 season. The IRL program

3740-431: The I30 was the brand's all-new mid-level model, replacing the Infiniti J30 . The I30 was positioned between the top-level, all-new Infiniti Q45 , and all-new entry-level Primera-based Infiniti G20 . The Infiniti I30 was also marketed in South Korea and Indonesia. In January 1997, the Cefiro "Brown Selection" was added to the lineup in Japan, equipped with the I30's chromed front grille and a brown interior. The I30 shared

3825-500: The I35, standard tires increased from 16" to 17", and the turning radius increased from 35.4 to 40.0 feet. The exterior and interior were designed at the Nissan Technical Center (NTC) in Atsugi, Japan. The I35 featured a coefficient of drag of .31 (.30 where equipped with a rear spoiler), an interior passenger volume of 120 cubic feet, and a 62/38 front/rear weight bias. Manufacture continued at Nissan's Oppama Plant . The modular VQ engine design featured continuous valve timing control,

3910-481: The Infiniti brand into new premium segments. In 2013, Infiniti's model designation changed to the coupes and sedans starting with the letter Q (SUVs and crossovers starting with the letters QX) and a number reflecting the model's place in the brand lineup. The M sedan became the Q70 while the G sedan was replaced with the Q50; meanwhile, the QX56 became the QX80 while the EX became the QX50. In August 2013 Infiniti announced that Simone Piattelli Palmarini would take up

3995-450: The JDM Nissan Primera , a compact sport sedan. The second generation G20 was marketed as a competitor to European entry-level luxury sport sedans, but it now weighed more than the first generation version. Because Infiniti continued to use the SR20DE four-cylinder engine and compact size, it fell short of sales expectations. The G20 was also marketed primarily to the wrong demographic, that being middle-aged professional women, and as such it

4080-592: The Nissan Motor Company never made a profit in South Korea during its tenure in the South Korean auto market from 2005 until its exit in 2020, due to the Korean opposition towards everything associated with Japan. It also relocated its headquarters from Hong Kong to Yokohama, Japan, where parent company Nissan is located. In November 2021, Nissan stated that its Infiniti brand will become 100 percent all-electric by 2030, ending production and new car sales of fossil fuel powered Infiniti vehicles by that year. In March 2022, Nissan withdrew entirely from Russia and Belarus as

4165-484: The North American Maxima (A33B). The I35 nameplate reflected the new engine, a 3.5 liter VQ35DE V6, producing 255 hp (190 kW) and teamed with a four-speed automatic transmission. Other revisions from its predecessor included the painted (rather than chromed) door handles, horizontal front grill, high-intensity xenon headlights , standard fog lights, revised trunk lid, combination lamps, larger badging, and low-restriction exhaust with chrome finishers. With

4250-468: The North American designation "I30" in 1996. It offered one engine, the 193 PS (142 kW; 190 hp) VQ30DE with front wheel drive shared with the Maxima. The I30 was redesigned for the 2000 model year, featuring an increase in power to 231 PS (170 kW; 227 hp). Infiniti made further changes to the I30's appearance and performance in mid-2001, upgrading the engine to the more powerful 259 PS (190 kW; 255 hp) VQ35DE ; this inspired

4335-407: The R32 Skyline , F31 Leopard , and C33 Laurel — except the diesel engine, which was available only in the Laurel. The ATTESA E-TS AWD drivetrain was offered after the mid-model refresh and was borrowed from the Skyline, which the Laurel traditionally shared. The Cefiro rivaled the Toyota Mark II , the luxurious Toyota Cresta and performance Toyota Chaser triplets, with Nissan offering

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4420-433: The Renault F1 Team's facilities in France. In addition, the Infiniti Engineering Academy provides for engineering students to collaborate with the Renault F1 Team. Infiniti and the Renault F1 team also collaborate on Project Black S, a road car that features an ERS inspired by the one used in Formula One. In 2020, a few Infiniti Q50s were entered into the British Touring Car Championship by Laser Tools Racing. They won

4505-447: The U.S. market. The marque launched with two models, the Q45 , and the M30 that were previously sold at Japanese Nissan Store dealership networks. The Q45 was based on the all new second generation JDM Nissan President on a five millimeter shorter wheelbase platform at 2,875 mm (113.2 in). Starting with model year 1992, the wheelbase matched the President's wheelbase at 2880 mm (113.4 in). The Q45 included

4590-500: The Year in 2003. The release of the sport-tuned FX35/45 crossover that same year piggybacked on the G35's success. The FX used the same components as the G35 sport coupe and was designed for American tastes. It combined good handling and performance with station wagon -like versatility and all-weather capability. In 2004, Infiniti added an all-wheel drive version of the G35 sports sedan to compete with similar all-wheel drive sports sedans from Audi and BMW . Infiniti also introduced

4675-427: The automotive press, winning an eight-car comparison test in Car and Driver , and the model was named the best luxury sedan by Consumer Reports . The M45 model featured the same engine as the Q45, and the M45 became the flagship model after the Q45 was discontinued. The Infiniti M (2002–2005) and the Infiniti G (starting in 2002) were known in Japan as the Nissan Gloria and the Nissan Skyline. In November 2006 for

4760-410: The availability of a rear sunshade, and standard drivers seat memory. The I30t ("touring"), equipped included High-Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlamps with darker colored headlamp surrounds, a viscous limited-slip differential , larger 17" wheels, and the availability of a Sport Package which consisted of a rear decklid-mounted spoiler and side-sill body extensions. The rear spoiler was offered as

4845-448: The bird's wings blurred. The action then slowed, the voice of actress Natasha Richardson advised the viewer 'not to blink' — and the action returned to full-speed. The ad closed with the tagline, "More Power, More Grace, More I... the new I35, from Infiniti." Nissan discontinued the Cefiro in 2003, later using the nameplate on the Nissan Teana (J31), exported to Hong Kong, Nepal, Bangladesh, Singapore, Brunei, Latin America and

4930-425: The burgeoning luxury market in mainland China as it forecast the country to become the largest luxury car market. Nissan appointed Roland Krüger, former head of BMW 's Asian division, as president of Infiniti in September 2014. In mid-2013 Infiniti announced their Q30 Concept car would get its world premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show , a move which would see Infiniti start an aggressive strategy to extend

5015-427: The chairman of the marque, Andy Palmer, resigned to join Aston Martin in September 2014. In January 2018, chief executive Hiroto Saikawa announced that the Infiniti brand would be transformed into an electric brand, with all new vehicles either being hybrid or all-electric by 2021. In 2019, Infiniti announced that the brand would be leaving the Western European market. This is due to a combination of poor sales and

5100-418: The direction of Carlos Ghosn and the Nissan Revival Plan . Car and Driver reported that Infiniti executives invited members of the motoring press to a meeting where they "swore never again to take their eyes off BMW ." Although this effort began with a completely redesigned Q45 flagship for the 2002 model year in early 2001, it was the G35 that helped improve Infiniti sales by 2003. In Japan, Nissan had

5185-430: The drivers' championship with Ash Sutton at the wheel that year and the subsequent year. Infiniti I The Nissan Cefiro ( Japanese : 日産・セフィーロ , Hepburn : Nissan Sefīro ) is a mid-size passenger car manufactured and marketed by Nissan Motors over three generations. Almost all Cefiro's were marketed as four-door sedans, though a five-door wagon body style was briefly available (1997–2000). In most cases,

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5270-476: The interior and the trim around the door frames, while ABS and airbags became standard across the range in the home market. The A32's character changed with its new front-wheel drive configuration and Nissan's VQ six-cylinder engines. Four-wheel drive was not available in this and the next generation. The JDM Cefiro was also offered as a wagon beginning in June 1997 as an alternative to the Toyota Mark II Qualis . The Cefiro Wagon (WA32) continued to be produced after

5355-399: The interiors with wood accents and chrome brightwork, opting instead for a monochrome , organic and rounded surface appearance, focusing on padded leather and vinyl throughout. Some buyers had faux wood appliques added to areas surrounding the center console and around the interior door handles. The only item that had a bright appearance was the centrally installed analog clock in all models,

5440-432: The manual transmission was no longer offered in North America (it remained available in the Middle East). Compared to the similar Nissan Maxima, the I30 included a more powerful engine with a variable capacity muffler and an additional fenderwell air intake, different front and rear body styling, gauge cluster design, a foot-pedal parking brake (as compared to the Maxima's center console mounted lever), center dashboard design,

5525-570: The moderately high annual road tax bill to Japanese buyers. However, the exterior dimensions and engine displacement (on models equipped with 2.0L engines) remained within "compact" class size regulations , keeping demand high. The Cefiro was marketed towards affluent married couples without children during the years before the " bubble economy " began. The Cefiro could be customized and ordered from several combinations of engines, suspensions, transmissions, interior fabrics, interior colors, and exterior colors according to their preferences. Also available

5610-563: The rear wheels simultaneously. The lithium-ion battery pack was first displayed in the Essence concept car. At the 2010 Geneva Motor Show , Infiniti launched a new powertrain for Europe, with the new V9X Engine developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance . The new engine is used in the Infiniti FX , Infiniti EX , and the new Infiniti M . The new Infiniti M made its European debut at the show. In August 2010 Infiniti unveiled its new performance division named Infiniti Performance Line , or IPL. Soon thereafter in 2011, Infiniti chose to sponsor

5695-465: The regular models, the G37 IPL was also renamed Q60 IPL beginning 2014 model year. Infiniti offers an "S" and "Red Sport" variant on many of their vehicles, which includes sportier styling on both the exterior and interior, more horsepower, and a firmer suspension. Infiniti According to Nissan, the Infiniti logo is a stylized representation a road extending to the horizon—and of Mount Fuji , reflecting its Japanese origins. The Infiniti brand

5780-479: The role as head of public relations for Infiniti EMEA. Known to many in the media , Simone had previously worked for Pirelli and Ferrari . With its QX60 crossover (formerly known as JX35) Infiniti began to produce vehicles outside Japan. In 2014, it started producing two models in Xiangyang , China, a plant operated by Nissan's joint venture with Dongfeng Motor . At the same time, Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK expanded in Sunderland , England , to produce

5865-634: The sales volume. In 2011, Infiniti sales fell, while other import luxury vehicles were doing well. Furthermore, Infiniti's performance over practicality emphasis has resulted in its crossovers and SUVs faring poorly among women compared to offerings from Acura and Lexus. Nissan announced the return of front-wheel drive to the Infiniti lineup on August 30, 2011, with the release of the Infiniti JX . It joins Toyota 's Lexus brand in terms of blending front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles again; since its inception in 1989, Lexus has had front-wheel drive platforms underpinning entry-level vehicles like

5950-820: The seat fore/aft on entry/exit; 14.9 cubic feet trunk capacity; trunk-mounted first aid kit and emergency inside trunk-release; temporary spare tire ; automatic temperature control system, driver's two position seat memory with entry/exit assist system, analog clock, HVAC microfilter ventilation system with reusable, washable filter, titanium-color accented gated shifter with simulated birdseye maple gearshift knob, front seatback pockets, electro-luminescent instrument cluster with multi-function trip computer, universal transceiver with rolling code feature, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, automatic anti-glare rear view mirror with compass; stainless steel sill plates and an optional navigation system with dash-mounted power flip-up monitor. Standard equipment also included

6035-411: The sedan's discontinuation, only being eliminated in August 2000. In Taiwan, the Cefiro A32 was manufactured by Yulon under the Nissan brand. Most Southeast Asian countries (for example, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand) adopted the Cefiro name. In South Korea, it was badge engineered and introduced as the Renault Samsung SM5 . In the Philippines, the Cefiro A32 replaced the A31 Cefiro in 1997. It

6120-450: The specification sheet affixed to the inside of the center armrest console lid. The Cefiro sold in Japan is only fitted with the single-cam and twin-cam RB20 inline-six engines, along with a turbocharged selection RB20DET . The RB25DE was also available with a 5-speed automatic transmission as the "25SE-M Selection." Nissan took the unusual step of marketing a left-hand drive version of

6205-604: The team after the 2015 season. The establishment of Renault F1 Team in 2016 by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance provided Infiniti with the opportunity to evolve its involvement in Formula One, collaborating on three main projects. Infiniti contributes engineering resources to Renault F1 Team for the co-development of the Power Unit's Energy Recovery System (ERS), including relocating several of their specialists to

6290-505: The uncertain Brexit outcome. Furthermore, Infiniti was lacking brand equity and remained a niche player in the premium car market dominated by the longtime three German luxury marques (Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz). Infiniti stated its intent to focus on the Chinese (excluding Hong Kong and Macau), Middle East, and North American markets instead, where most of the brand's sales come from. Subsequently,

6375-439: Was a modification to the front passenger seat of Nissan called the "Partner Comfort Seat," where the top portion of the front passenger seat was further articulated to tilt forward, supporting the passenger's shoulders while allowing the seatback structure to recline. At the time of its introduction, there were 810 possible combinations. First-generation Series A31 Cefiros can identify the combined specifications ordered by looking at

6460-439: Was added alongside the "Brougham VIP" trim. Nissan's 2.0L V6 engine still powers both trims mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission respectively. The new "Elite" trim featured power-adjustable seats, faux wood trim, a full leather interior with tufted seats, and a re-designed 6-speaker audio system with 6 CD/VCD changers. The "Brougham VIP" trim received different wheel designs, a unique pagcor emblem, automatic climate control, and

6545-620: Was available as an option. Nissan released its A33 series in December 1998 initially as the JDM Cefiro, subsequently marketing badge engineered variants worldwide — prominently under its North American Infiniti brand as the I30 and I35. For the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) , Nissan offered the A33 in 2.0 and 2.5 Excimo, 2.0 and 2.5 Excimo G, 2.0 and 2.5 S Touring, and 3.0 Brougham VIP trim levels. A five-speed manual transmission

6630-432: Was available three color themes: marketed as Willow [gray], Graphite [black] and Beige [beige]. The I35 was introduced with an ad campaign featuring print, radio, newspaper, direct mail, internet ads as well as a television commercial by TBWA\Chiat\Day titled Hummingbird. The ad depicted an I35 driving in the background along a country road with a hummingbird in the foreground. The car and hummingbird moved at full speed,

6715-606: Was from the 222 hp (166 kW; 225 PS) 300ZX , the JDM Nissan Cedric , Nissan Gloria and the Nissan Cima , and was the North American version of the third generation JDM Nissan Leopard . Infiniti sales were slow. The company's initial campaign aimed to bring about brand awareness with Zen -influenced spots that focused on nature and tranquility, without showing the actual cars. Designers decided not to adorn

6800-443: Was installed with a multi-link setup. There was also a switch on the center console that allowed the driver to change between "Auto," "Soft," "Medium," and "Hard" settings. The speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering could also be separately reduced for a sporting feeling, and the suspension setting would modify both the steering feel and the shift points on the automatic transmission. Its equipment and features helped justify

6885-574: Was introduced in the United States in 1989 to target the premium vehicle segments in the United States that would not have otherwise fit in with Nissan's mainstream offering, and partially influenced by the Plaza Accord of 1985. The brand was created around the same time rivals Toyota and Honda developed their Lexus and Acura premium brands, respectively. As the Japanese government invoked voluntary export restraints , it became more effective for automakers to export fewer but more expensive cars to

6970-549: Was not as popular new as its main competition, the similarly priced Acura Integra . In late 1996, Infiniti released the QX4 , modifying and adding premium accommodations to the Nissan Pathfinder , becoming one of the first luxury car manufacturers to offer a mid-size premium SUV. Infiniti replaced the J30 mid-sized rear drive sedan with the second-generation JDM Nissan Cefiro , giving it

7055-512: Was offered for the 2.0 Excimo and 2.0 S Touring. The limited edition "L Selection" and modified Autech version were also offered in Japan. In January 2001 the Cefiro received a facelift, incorporating the larger bumpers used on export models and the Infiniti I30. In Australia , Nissan marketed the A33 as the Maxima from 1999 through to 2003. Trim levels were S, ST, and Ti—all powered by the 3.0-liter engine. In Europe , Nissan continued to market

7140-492: Was quietly wrapped after the 2002 season after a few wins. In 2011, Infiniti began sponsoring Formula One team Red Bull Racing , which was chosen due to the team's already existing collaboration with the Renault-Nissan Alliance, with Renault supplying engines to Red Bull Racing. In 2011, Infiniti signed Formula One World Champion Sebastian Vettel as its first global ambassador. Infiniti ended its sponsorship of

7225-399: Was shared with the Skyline and Laurel, using MacPherson struts for the front wheels and a semi-trailing arm suspension for the rear. If the Cefiro was installed with the "Super Sonic Suspension" system, a sonar module mounted under the front bumper and scanned the road surface, adjusting the suspension accordingly via actuators mounted on all four coilover struts and the front suspension

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