A Surprise Comeback for Car Fans
Infiniti shocked car lovers at a recent dealer meeting in Las Vegas by announcing the return of the Q50 sedan in 2027. After ending production last year, many thought the Q50 was gone for good. But now, it’s coming back with a powerful engine from the Nissan Z and a manual gearbox option. This move has got everyone talking, as it promises a fun, driver-focused car that brings back the spirit of Infiniti’s classic G35.
Powered by Nissan Z Muscle
The new Q50 will borrow its heart from the Nissan Z sports car. It’s set to use a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, pumping out around 400 horsepower, with some versions possibly hitting 450 horsepower. This engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission, aims to make driving thrilling again. The car will stick with rear-wheel drive, though some dealers hope an all-wheel-drive option might come later.
| Engine Details | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Twin-Turbo 3.0L V6 |
| Horsepower | 400 – 450 hp |
A Nod to Classic Design
The rebooted Q50, possibly called the Q50S, will share its base with the Nissan Skyline sedan sold in Japan. Dealers got a sneak peek at a sleek design with slim headlights and round taillights, inspired by the iconic Skyline look. It’s meant to feel sporty, like the BMW 3-Series, but with Infiniti’s unique style. This design choice is a tribute to the G35, a car loved by many in the early 2000s.
Why the Change in Plans
Infiniti had planned to replace the Q50 with an electric sedan by the end of the decade. But with electric car sales slowing down, the company switched gears. They decided to focus on what made them stand out years ago: fun-to-drive cars with gas engines. This shift shows Infiniti is listening to fans who want a car that’s exciting, not just practical. The manual gearbox is a rare treat in today’s automatic-heavy market.
| Model Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual or 9-Speed Auto |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive (AWD possible) |
Targeting Driving Enthusiasts
The new Q50 aims at folks who love to drive, especially older buyers who remember the G35 and younger ones looking for something fresh. Infiniti’s boss, Vinay Shahani, said sedans are key to bringing in new customers, especially younger ones. A high-performance Red Sport version might also be in the works, adding even more power and flair. This car could put Infiniti back on the map against brands like BMW and Lexus.
Challenges and Hopes Ahead
While the news has car fans excited, some dealers worry about sales. Sedans aren’t as popular as SUVs, and a manual gearbox might only appeal to a small group. One dealer in New Jersey said all-wheel drive could double sales in some areas. Still, cars like the Kia Stinger proved there’s a market for sporty sedans. If Infiniti gets it right, the Q50 could be a hit when it lands in late 2027.
A Bright Future for Infiniti
This bold move shows Infiniti is ready to take risks to win back its fans. By bringing back the Q50 with Z power and a manual option, they’re betting on drivers who crave excitement. The car world is watching to see if this sedan can live up to the hype. For now, enthusiasts are counting down to 2027, eager to get behind the wheel of this reborn classic.
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