Infiniti Set to Bring Back the RWD Manual Sports Sedan: Report
This is a 2018 Q50, and it still appears quite impressive! Infiniti
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This week, Infiniti held a dealer conference in Las Vegas, where the brand hinted at a new model featuring some of our favorite elements: rear-wheel drive, a manual transmission, and a twin-turbo engine. The Q50 is reportedly set to receive a refresh as a genuine, classic sport sedan.
Automotive News shared some surprising and thrilling information today, confirming that a new variant, the Q50S, is expected to debut in late 2027. Like its predecessors, this new Q50 will utilize the Japanese Nissan Skyline Sedan platform. It will be powered by a version of the twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower in the Nissan Z. Additionally, a more powerful Red Sport (Infiniti's performance branding) model has also been mentioned as "under consideration."
It's exciting news. On one hand, it seems hard to imagine that a mainstream automaker would invest heavily in a niche product in 2025, yet on the other hand, this is precisely what Infiniti needs—a definitive feature that sets it apart from other luxury brands and a compelling reason for enthusiasts to take notice. The appeal of a manual transmission could effectively attract affluent older millennials and Gen Xers who cherish memories of driving Maximas and G35s two decades ago.
Currently, the landscape of manual-shift luxury vehicles in America includes the Acura Integra, Cadillac Blackwing, and what else? The BMW M2 offers a manual option, but that's a two-door car. Infiniti already has the platform from the Japanese Skyline and the engine from the Z. It’s conceivable that the twin-turbo V6 could be tuned for more power with minimal adjustments, such as intake and exhaust modifications. While it's not an effortless task, the brand isn't starting from scratch either.
Regarding the reality of this plan, Auto News reported without hesitation, noting: “Infiniti Americas Vice President Tiago Castro described the redesigned Q50 as ‘unapologetic and unexpected.'” I reached out to Infiniti's team to see if they could confirm or provide additional details, and I will update this article if I receive more information.
It seems Infiniti is joining Stellantis in taking advantage of the current regulatory landscape in America to revert to older technology. I have mixed feelings about this approach in general, but a new manual sedan certainly sounds appealing.
“Infiniti teased the sleek model in a video showcasing a curvy silhouette, slender headlights, and Skyline-styled circular taillights,” writes Auto News. Count me extremely intrigued.
Have a tip? Do you have fond memories of a manual G35? Send a message to the author at [email protected].
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Infiniti Set to Bring Back the RWD Manual Sports Sedan: Report
A 2027 Q50S sedan was allegedly hinted at during a dealer conference, featuring a “screaming” twin-turbo engine, rear-wheel drive, and the option for a manual transmission.