Infiniti is the premium division of Japanese automaker Nissan. Infiniti officially started its North American operations on November 8, 1989 with the Q45. The goal was to target the luxury car market that did not fit with the parent company’s mainstream image. Around this time, the Japanese government imposed export restrictions that made it more profitable to export luxury automobiles to the United States.

Although sales lagged in the 1990’s, Infiniti rededicated its efforts with redesigned vehicles with more power. They also introduced new models such as a luxury, compact crossover SUV. Infiniti is marketing a newly developed hybrid power train to increase fuel economy and reduce environmental impact as well as a turbo diesel engine in Europe. The design of Infiniti models places the center of the engine behind the front wheels to improve acceleration, braking and handling through a more even weigh distribution. The parent company, Nissan, announced that starting in 2011 front-wheel drive will again be available in the Infiniti lineup of vehicles with the introduction of Infiniti JX.

Since its beginning in 1989, the Infiniti market has grown to include China, South Korea, Taiwan, Russia, Ukraine, the Middle East and the United Kingdom.

Current Models

2012 Infiniti G

2012 Infiniti IPL G

2012 Infiniti M

2012 Infiniti EX

2012 Infiniti FX

2012 Infiniti QX

View Infiniti.com for more information