Infiniti competitor for 1-Series and A3 headed for Europe!

Remember the unloved FWD Infiniti G20, which was based on the Nissan Primera? Well, it looks like Nissan is reportedly considering the development of a compact around the size of the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3 specifically targeted for Europe. Big cars and large engines don't make sense in Europe, which is going to be a stumbling block for Infiniti with their current lineup of cars.

The smallest engine they have is a 3.5 liter V6, which by European standards is not fuel efficient and is heavily taxed. The JDM Nissan Skyline further gets a choice of 2.5 liter V6. Although, Infiniti will be getting a diesel engine option for Europe, a smaller car would make perfect sense if Infiniti wants to take hold of the European market. Current reports suggest that the new 370Z will have a 4-inch shorter wheelbase than the 350Z. This shortned version of the updated FM platform could spawn a new compact for Infiniti.

Infiniti Europe hopes to have 78 dealers across the continent by the end of 2010 selling an initial line-up consisting of the new EX, FX and G models.

Nissan realizes, however, that it will take a long time for Infiniti to establish itself in the market, and as a result is planning to financially subsidize its European dealerships in the short term until they can turn a profit.

2ndbimmer - 2/11/2008 11:01:41 AM

0 Boost

is that a picture of a 1993 infiniti?

S4cabriofoxone - 2/11/2008 12:18:16 PM

+2 Boost

No, it's actually around 2001.

This is a smart strategy for them.

rok_altima - 2/11/2008 3:41:51 PM

+1 Boost

I still think it will be a mistake for them to not introduce the 2.5L V6 in Europe in the G and M cars, The car is already designed for the engine in Japan, why not bring it over? People in Europe prefer to have the smaller engine...not so much the "power wars" occuring in the U.S.

07G35J - 2/12/2008 12:47:19 PM

+1 Boost

I think it's a good idea. They should also consider bringing it to the US too.

Carboy - 2/12/2008 3:44:11 PM

+2 Boost

I think it is also a good idea. Infiniti are basically a great car company. I mean with the cars they made recently, they are going to make the person who wants a Mercedes, but can't afford one, go to them. My mom used to have an Infiniti J30 and that was a great sports sedan. For you are don't know what the J30 was, it was basically a old version of a G35.

VISO - 2/12/2008 3:58:44 PM

+1 Boost

I hope Infiniti realizes the sales volume the A3 and 1-Series achieve on yearly basis in Europe. Not to mention how imbedded they as icons in Europe.