In case you didn’t know, the Infiniti QX50 and QX55 are assembled in the same factory as the Mercedes-Benz GLB in Mexico. The issue here is Trump’s new tariff, which takes effect on February 1 this year. This tariff imposes a 25% duty on imported products manufactured in Canada and Mexico.
As for sales, 10,722 units of the QX50 were sold in the U.S. last year, while the QX55 fared even worse, with only 3,721 units sold. In contrast, the QX60—despite being more expensive—sold over 27,808 units. This is an unusual situation since compact SUVs are typically the most popular segment. Clearly, Nissan has come to the same conclusion.
A Replacement?
With the departure of the QX50 and QX55, Infiniti’s lineup will shrink to just two models, which isn’t necessarily a good thing. However, several rumors have been circulating online about a new compact SUV that could be based on the same platform as the Nissan Rogue PHEV. This would be excellent news, as Infiniti is one of the few automakers that currently offers no electrified models in its lineup. In fact, there is also talk of one or more fully electric SUVs.
Let’s not forget that the next-generation QX80 has just arrived on the market, and the QX60 is also expected to receive a major update next year. Additionally, a two-row version called the QX65 is in the works. Given all this, I don’t expect to see a new Infiniti model before at least 2027. However, who knows? The Japanese automaker might surprise us with a new vehicle in the coming months. We know that Nissan and Honda are looking to collaborate, so it’s not impossible that Infiniti could also benefit from this alliance.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
