Infiniti Q50 Discontinued: Production To End In December 2024

The Infiniti Q50 is set to be discontinued at the end of 2024. After producing the sedan for more than a decade, Infiniti has announced the end of its production. The decision marks the end of an era for Infiniti, as the Q50 is currently the only sedan produced by the Japanese luxury car manufacturer. Starting in 2025, Infiniti will be an SUV-only brand.

2025 Infiniti Lineup

Infiniti recently announced a host of changes to its 2024 line-up in the North American market. While the QX50 and QX55 receive minor updates, the recently launched Infiniti QX60 gets major updates including a new engine option, multiple new features, and a few design changes.

There are two major changes in the new product portfolio. First and foremost is the inclusion of the all-new Infiniti QX80 flagship SUV. This powerhouse of an SUV shares its underpinnings with the next-gen Nissan Patrol. Here’s all you need to know about the Y63 Nissan Patrol set to be revealed early in September 2024.

The second most significant change in the new Infiniti line-up is the absence of the Q50 — Infiniti’s only sedan in production currently. This move underscores a shift in the automotive industry toward new priorities and technologies. The same product line-up is expected to be introduced in the Middle East & UAE markets too.

A Brief History Of The Infiniti Q50

Infiniti was formed in 1989 as a more premium and luxurious brand under the Nissan umbrella. The brand would develop and manufacture cars based on existing Nissan products with a more upmarket and luxurious feel. Nissan launched Infiniti and Toyota launched Lexus just like Honda had launched its Acura brand.

In 1990, Infiniti launched the G20 which was based on the Nissan Primera. In 2002, Infiniti launched the G35, based on the 11th generation Nissan Skyline sedan, the successor to the mighty Nissan GT-R R34. Read more about the generations of the Nissan GT-R and their Skyline connection.

In 2007, the Infiniti Q60 was launched, and finally, in 2013 the Infiniti Q50, based on the 12th & 13th generation of the Nissan Skyline respectively. With its sleek design, advanced technology, and powerful engine options, the Q50 was well-received by enthusiasts and critics alike. Over the years, the Q50 evolved with updates to its styling, technology, and performance, but its core identity as a luxury sports sedan remained intact.

Infiniti Q50 Specs & Features

The Infiniti Q50 is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 300hp & 400Nm. The engine is tuned to produce 400hp and 475Nm in the high-performance Sport and Red Sport models.

Notable features include:

16-speaker Bose audio system
Direct Adaptive Steering
Semi-Aniline Leather Seats
Adaptive Headlamps
Sporty 18 or 19-inch Alloy Wheels
Six Drive Modes

Infiniti Q50 Discontinuation

Despite its success, the Q50 faced challenges in recent years to keep pace with the rapidly changing automotive landscape. The market has seen a significant shift toward SUVs and electric vehicles (EVs), leaving traditional sports sedans like the Q50 with dwindling sales.

In the face of challenges like these, Infiniti’s decision to discontinue the Q50 does make sense. The move is part of a broader strategy to realign the brand’s focus on SUVs and electrification. With the QX60 and QX80 SUVs leading Infiniti’s lineup, the brand is now concentrating its efforts on meeting the growing demand for these vehicle types.

Replacement For The Infiniti Q50?

Infiniti is looking toward the future with a renewed emphasis on sustainability. While there is no direct successor to the Q50 in the works, an Infiniti sports sedan certainly is. In 2023, Infiniti revealed the Vision Qe electric sedan concept.

This concept is rumoured to be a preview of the brand’s upcoming flagship electric sedan. It is also said that this sedan could be based on the underpinnings of the upcoming Nissan Maxima EV.