Want to know the difference between Infiniti and Nissan? If you’ve seen an Infiniti car you probably realised that it is related to a Nissan, but what is the actual difference and where does Infiniti come in the Nissan lineup.
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What Is Infiniti
Infiniti is a luxury division of Nissan and it was first introduced in the United States in 1989. Nissan wanted to target the premium vehicle market in the United States with cars that would not fit in with their more mainstream image.
The development of the brand was also somewhat influenced by the Plaza Accord of 1985. The Japanese government imposed voluntary export restraints for the United States market, so Nissan found it more profitable to export more expensive vehicles to North America. Both Toyota and Honda also developed their own luxury brands, Lexus and Acura, around this time as well.
Nissan launched the Infiniti marque with two models initially, the Q45 and the M30. Both of these cars were previously sold at Nissan Motor Store dealerships in Japan.
In January 2018 it was announced that the Infiniti brand would be transformed into an electric brand. All new cars from 2021 will become either fully electric or hybrid.
What is the Main Difference Between Infiniti & Nissan Cars?
While at first glance there may not be that much difference between Nissan and Infiniti cars, a closer inspection reveals that there are some significant changes.
Comfort
Probably the biggest difference between the two brands is what you get on the inside. As Infiniti cars are aimed at the higher end segment of the market, they come with a more luxurious and comfortable interior. The main added benefits tend to be better noise insulation, leather upholstery, real wood trim pieces, higher end sound systems, and more advanced electronics and infotainment systems. The fit and finish of the car tends to be of a higher quality as well.
Specifications, Technology & Performance
Compared to standard Nissan models, Infiniti cars tend to be packed with better technology and superior component/engine specifications. While driver assistance systems are very common on Nissan cars these days, Infiniti models tend to have newer and better systems.
Infiniti cars also come with higher end, more powerful engines that offer better performance. Additionally, Infiniti cars tend to be either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, whereas Nissans are usually front-wheel drive (although models like the GT-R and the 370Z are obviously an exception).
Buyer Protection
Another major benefit of buying an Infiniti over a Nissan is that you get better buyer protection. The cars tend to come with more comprehensive warranty packages that are longer (seven years instead of five for example).
Conclusion
While Infiniti cars may simply seem like a Nissan with a different badge, there are actually quite a few changes. The difference between the two brands may become even more apparent in the future if Nissan goes ahead with their plan to make all Infiniti cars electric by 2021.
If you’re shopping around for cars, then one potential “showdown” you might have come across is the Nissan 350Z versus the Infiniti G35. These cars have an awful lot in common, but also have a number of important differences. Which of these two sports cars is right for you? Read our article on the Nissan 350Z vs Infiniti G35 for more information.
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