Big transformations are underway at Infiniti, the automaker synonymous with luxury.
After recently bidding farewell to the Q50 sedan, the company has declared it will also retire the QX50 and QX55 crossovers by the close of 2025.
However, dealers can be reassured that they’ll have ample inventory to last for at least six months post-production.
This strategic shift is part of Infiniti’s broader plan to refresh its lineup and introduce exciting new models in the near future.
Strategic Shift in Model Lineup
This announcement took place during a dealer meeting where Infiniti laid out its plans.
Ponz Pandikuthira, who oversees product planning for Nissan America, stressed the importance of refining the brand’s offerings to stay aligned with market shifts.
He pointed out that the QX60 and QX80, along with various upcoming special editions, tend to overshadow the QX50 and QX55.
Therefore, it’s crucial to pivot towards innovative designs to revitalize Infiniti’s market presence.
The QX50 has a rich history, having first appeared as a transformed version of the EX model back in 2013.
The latest version launched in 2017, and since then, there haven’t been many substantial updates.
Meanwhile, the QX55, which made its debut in 2021 as a coupe-style variant, has also remained relatively static.
In this transitional time, Pandikuthira is optimistic about drawing in new customers, especially with the three-row QX60 and the upcoming compact QX65, set to hit the market next year.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While these changes are hopeful, challenges persist.
Sales data indicates that the visibility of both the QX50 and QX55 is lacking.
Despite a modest 7.9 percent sales bump for the QX50 in 2024, this translated to only 10,722 units sold.
On the other hand, the QX55 struggled significantly, with a drop of 31.3 percent leading to just 3,721 units moving off the lot this year.
Amid these hurdles, Infiniti is focused on sustaining excitement among dealers.
With production winding down in December, the expectation is that remaining QX50 and QX55 stock will support dealers until the summer of 2026.
Dealers are particularly looking forward to refreshed models like the QX60 and the new QX65, believing these cars will be crucial for boosting sales.
One dealer expressed the pressing need for a compact entry-level model, suggesting inspiration from the popular Nissan Rogue, which could provide a stronger foundation for Infiniti’s lineup.
Focus on High-End Consumers
On a more positive note, Pandikuthira pointed out that the new QX80 has been elevating the brand’s status within the luxury sector.
Initially, the company anticipated that buyers of the QX80 would have annual incomes ranging from $300,000 to $500,000.
Instead, they found that many buyers are earning close to $1 million, a trend that bodes well for Infiniti’s strategy to capture high-end consumers.
In summary, while the decision to discontinue the QX50 and QX55 signals a significant transition for Infiniti, the brand is gearing up for growth and modernity.
With exciting new models on the horizon and a strategic focus on enhancing its lineup, both dealers and consumers have much to anticipate.