Infiniti Confirms New Rear-Wheel-Drive Sport Sedan
According to Tiago Castro, vice president of Infiniti Americas, the new sporty sedan will arrive in 2027, and yes, it might even come with a manual transmission.
Key Points
- A new rear-wheel-drive sport sedan is coming in 2027, inspired by the classic G35, and may even offer a manual transmission — a rare move aimed squarely at driving enthusiasts.
- Infiniti plans to launch one new model every year, starting with the QX65 SUV in 2026, followed by the sport sedan and a hybrid SUV in 2028 powered by Nissan’s e-Power system.
- Infiniti is focusing on smaller, high-quality lineups and driver-focused vehicles, putting EV plans on hold as it works to revive its identity and win back loyal fans.
Speaking at an Automotive Press Association event at Nissan's Technical Center in Detroit, Castro confirmed that the upcoming model will be rear-wheel drive and fun to drive, channeling the spirit of the beloved Infiniti G35, a car that really put the brand on the map for enthusiasts two decades ago. This follows news earlier this year that the brand was planning to reboot the Q50 and had already shown a preliminary concept to dealers.
While Castro wouldn't disclose specifics about the platform, he hinted that for the project to make economic sense, it would have to share underpinnings with Nissan models. The new sedan could use a version of the FM platform that underpins the current Nissan Z, itself a relative of the old G37.
The new model could arrive as early as 2027, but considering the platform sharing required, it will probably be built at Nissan's Tochigi Plant, where the current Nissan Z and Nissan Skyline sedan are built—the Skyline itself is really just a Q50 with different badges. As for powertrain, if it's sharing a platform with the Z, it's likely the coupe's twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 is in play; it should output at least 400 horsepower.
The sport sedan will follow the launch of the Infiniti QX65 SUV in 2026, a two-row model inspired by the FX crossover, which will be built in Smyrna, Tennessee.
Next in line after the sedan is a compact hybrid SUV arriving in 2028, powered by Nissan’s e-Power series hybrid system. Unlike typical hybrids, the gas engine in this setup will act as a generator for the electric motor. The new SUV will share a platform with the 2026 Nissan Rogue and will offer standard all-wheel drive.
Infiniti is also planning to explore high-performance and off-road variants of the new QX80, previewed by the Track Spec and Terrain Spec concepts. Dealers favored the Track Spec—powered by a 650-horsepower twin-turbo V6—but Castro said both versions are being evaluated for production.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, went over the wall during the Rolex 24, and wrenched in the intense IndyCar paddock.
More by Michael Accardi
Comments
Join the conversation
Infiniti is a great brand Please make a great sedan or 2 seater again! Owner of a 2008 G 35X & a 2012 G 37X.,😊