Infiniti is facing an existential crisis. Sales have tanked since 2017, leaving the automaker clinging to just two SUV models. But the company isn’t giving up without a fight. In October 2024, Infiniti confirmed plans to resurrect the Q50 nameplate with a new sports sedan, betting that a return to performance roots will reignite consumer interest. The move is a high-stakes gamble: while new SUVs will keep the lights on, the Q50 is meant to generate buzz and lure enthusiasts back into Infiniti showrooms.
Why This Matters
Infiniti once thrived by blending luxury with driving excitement, exemplified by models like the V8-powered FX45 SUV and the rear-wheel-drive G35 coupe. The Q50’s revival signals a desperate attempt to recapture that spirit. A successful Q50 could lift the entire brand, attracting both performance car fans and buyers who want a luxury vehicle with some edge. But failure could mean further irrelevance in an increasingly competitive market.
Under the Hood: A Shared DNA With the Nissan Z
Don’t expect a complete reinvention. The 2028 Q50 will likely ride on the same FM platform as the outgoing model, which was discontinued after 2024. This is also the same platform underpinning the Nissan Z sports car, suggesting significant parts-sharing to cut costs and speed development. Expect some components to be directly lifted from the Z, including its engine.
The core of the Q50 will be the Z’s VR30DDTT twin-turbocharged V6. Infiniti has promised rear-wheel drive and “lots of horsepower”—likely exceeding 400 hp, potentially matching or even surpassing the Nissan Z NISMO’s 420 ponies. Lower-spec models with less powerful V6 or four-cylinder engines are possible, but the company is heavily promoting a performance-focused variant.
The Manual Transmission: A Make-or-Break Feature
The biggest question mark (and potential game-changer) is the transmission. Infiniti has strongly hinted at offering a manual gearbox, capitalizing on the Z’s six-speed stick shift. The fact that even the Z NISMO is now available with a manual suggests the Q50 could pair the higher-output engine with a do-it-yourself option. This is crucial because no other luxury sports sedans currently offer a third pedal.
Competition and Risks
The luxury sports sedan segment is shrinking, but the Q50 will compete against the BMW M340i, Mercedes-AMG C43, and Genesis G70 3.3T. To succeed, Infiniti must undercut the German rivals on price while delivering enough performance to excite enthusiasts. A lack of a manual transmission would be a fatal blow. A minor refresh of the old Red Sport 400 trim won’t cut it.
Timing and Pricing
The 2028 Infiniti Q50 is expected to hit showrooms in 2027. The high-performance variant could start around $60,000, while a more accessible base model might dip below $50,000. The success of this vehicle is critical: Infiniti’s future as a brand with performance credentials hinges on delivering a compelling, driver-focused sedan.
