*Specifications shown in images/videos may vary.
Our History
When we launched over 30 years ago, our first vehicle was the luxurious, yet minimalistic Q45 sedan. We’ve gone through our vault and picked out a few more key moments from our glorious past.
*Specifications shown in images/videos may vary.
The Early Years
After years of top-secret preparation, INFINITI was announced to the world in 1989 and instantly revolutionized the automotive industry. We offered outstanding products and ground-breaking, disruptive customer service called Total Ownership Experience.
1985: How It All Began
An elite group forms within Nissan with a single aim: to build a new type of performance luxury vehicle – one that would challenge the prevailing American and European luxury brands – with more driver-centric design and better customer service.
1987: World, Meet INFINITI
A name is chosen to capture a sense of purpose and the summarize the endless possibilities that lie ahead. To embody it, a logo is designed depicting two central lines stretching into the horizon.
1989: We Have Lift Off
INFINITI launches at 51 dealers across the United States. Two models are available: the spacious Q45 sedan and the performance-based M30 coupe. We quickly gain recognition as leaders in customer satisfaction.
1995: The V6 Engine Debuts
A new V6 engine range was introduced: the VQ series. Designed for optimal power, torque and fuel consumption, the thrilling VQ ranked as one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines for the next 14 years – an unrivalled achievement. This was the predecessor of the INFINITI Twin Turbo V6.
Driver-Centric Design
While a lot has changed in the years since we began, our dedication to driver-centric design has continued to drive the brand forward, producing some world-firsts along the way.
2001: We Invented Intelligent Cruise Control
This powerful innovation detected the traffic ahead, adjusting your speed automatically so you could maintain your desired distance. It heightened your response in relation to your surroundings.
2001: We Introduced the RearView Monitor
A more intuitive way to reverse, our RearView Monitor used external cameras to show what’s behind your vehicle on your dash display.
2002: We Created Voice Recognition
A year later saw even greater progress in connective technologies. The invention of INFINITI Voice Recognition meant you could take command of your vehicle’s settings without removing your hands from the wheel.
Pushing Technology Further
We never stop looking for ways to improve – it’s embedded in our DNA. Whether that be through developing engine technology, drive assist systems or safety systems. Here are some of our milestones.
2004: Lane Departure Warning
Lane Departure Warning made its first appearance in the INFINITI FX. It sensed when you were about to cross the lane markings without signalling and alerted you before you made the move.
2007: Around View® Monitor
New parking technology was unveiled: the Around View® Monitor. It offered drivers a 360˚ view of their vehicle as they manoeuvred, enabling them to gauge each space with a new all-round perspective.
2007: Lane Departure Prevention System
This evolution of Lane Departure Warning was another INFINITI first. It not only alerted you, it automatically compensated if it sensed you were about to drift into the next lane and used the brakes to ease you back into position.
2010: Blind Spot Intervention™
INFINITI introduced the world’s first Blind Spot Intervention™ system. It sensed when another vehicle was occupying the adjacent lane, alerting you to its presence and selectively applying the brakes.
2012: Intelligent Backup
Our Backup Collision Intervention – another world first – detected what you might miss when you were in reverse. If danger was imminent, the system warned you and engaged the brakes, so you could embark in total control.
2014: Direct Adaptive Steering®
This system allowed you to filter unwanted vibration while tailoring your steering in an abundance of ways. No other driver technology like this existed at the time.
2004:
Introducing QX80
This full-size luxury sport utility vehicle was first known as the QX56 when it launched in 2004. It was rebranded as the INFINITI QX80 in 2013. Today’s version is our most luxurious SUV ever, with seating for up to 8 people, striking looks and elegant design details.
2007: The QX50 Makes its Debut
Our advanced compact SUV, began life as the INFINITI EX in 2007. It became the QX50 in 2013 and has continued to evolve every year since. Take a look at the latest QX50, which offers a travel experience to remember.
2013:
Introducing Q50
INFINITI Q50 had its debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. This head-turning sport sedan has since gone from strength to strength. The Latest INFINITI Q50 boasts track-bred features such as aluminum alloys and other premium touches.
Challenging Ourselves
We’ve always challenged ourselves to make our vehicles more thrilling, more relaxing and more connected. As we’ve grown, we’ve also looked for ways to support others. That’s why we created an academy for young engineers, and collaborated with F1™ racing teams.
2014: Supporting Young Talent
This was the year we launched the INFINITI Engineering Academy. It offered a perfect opportunity for the brightest young engineers to realize their potential in the field of automotive and F1™ innovation.
2016: Creating F1™ Technology
After five years of collaboration with Red Bull Racing, INFINITI partnered with Renault DP World F1® Team. This move allowed us to pursue new advancements in low-emission performance, building on technology like our Direct Response Hybrid® system.
2016:
Redesigning Q60
In 1991, INFINITI released the G Coupe, a compact executive car and predecessor to today’s Q60. The concept version was unveiled at the 2015 North American International Auto Show and the production model was unveiled in 2016. Today’s INFINITI Q60 is still every inch the ultimate driver’s car.
2021:
Introducing QX55
In 2021, INFINITI introduced the QX55, a coupé SUV version of the QX50 with a modern, sloped roof design. The latest INFINITI QX55 boasts performance-inspired styling and a bold, powerful stance that makes a statement wherever you go.
2022:
Meet the New QX60
The INFINITI QX60 was first introduced to the market in 2012. Before that, it was known as the INFINITI JX. In 2022 we caused quite a stir by introducing a completely re-designed QX60. It’s our most versatile SUV ever, with three rows of seats, stand-out looks and a sumptuous cabin.
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Design
Powerful elegance is at the heart of our design philosophy. The inspiration may come from art or poetry but the execution is always powerful and purposeful.
Making Our Marque
Discover the story behind our brand symbol. Find out what it means and how it’s a visual representation of everything we stand for as a company.
News and Events
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