Q50

Make
Infiniti
Segment
Sedan

Infiniti has announced details of a new naming strategy for its complete 2014 MY lineup. The first car to feature the new nomenclature will be the G sedan replacement expected in the second half of 2013, set to debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January as the Infiniti Q50. From then on all Infiniti sedans, coupes and convertibles will be prefixed by a "Q" and all SUV and crossover models by "QX." Each model will be further identified by a double digit representing its place in the range. Engine size will be identified by secondary badging on the fender.

The changes are as follows: as stated, the G sedan becomes the Q50 with the coupe and convertible renamed the Q60; the Infiniti M becomes the Q70. The EX crossover will be known as the QX50, JX becomes QX60, FX becomes QX70 and the Infiniti QX will be called QX80. Infiniti also has plans to significantly expand its portfolio, and in simplifying the nomenclature, the Japanese carmaker hopes consumers will become more familiar with its model range. Apparently consumers in Asia and Europe struggle to tell the difference between G and M, while the format of increasing numbers is important for US customers who want to know where they sit in the range's hierarchy.

Explaining the change, Infiniti President Johan de Nysschen said: "The need for a new identity and direction to promote consumer familiarity with our model range as we expand the portfolio became evident. To achieve this, we clearly needed a simple and consistent nomenclature framework. After exhaustive research and evaluation, we concluded that 'Q' captured the inspiration within the next generation of Infiniti models, as well as emphasizing our performance credentials while harking back to our heritage with the Q45 - Infiniti's first iconic flagship product in 1989."