Infiniti is ready to make a big comeback in the performance sedan world, and it’s taking inspiration straight from one of its most loved cars, the legendary G35. The luxury arm of Nissan has officially confirmed that a brand-new rear-wheel-drive sport sedan is on the way, scheduled to arrive in 2027. Even better, enthusiasts might get what they’ve been asking for years: a manual transmission option.

A Return to Infiniti’s Roots

At an event hosted by the Automotive Press Association in Detroit, Infiniti Americas Vice President Tiago Castro revealed the exciting details. He admitted that fans have been asking for years about a true successor to the G35, a sporty, powerful sedan with balanced handling and that special “driver’s car” feeling.

Now, Infiniti says it’s listening. The upcoming sedan is being designed specifically for enthusiasts, a car that delivers both fun and refinement, something that feels alive behind the wheel. Castro said this model will be “an inspirational, fun-to-drive sedan” that reflects Infiniti’s roots while showing off modern engineering.

Rear-Wheel Drive and Possible Manual Transmission

The new sport sedan will be rear-wheel drive, confirming its performance-focused nature. Castro also hinted that a manual transmission may be offered, something nearly unheard of in today’s luxury car market. That detail alone has car enthusiasts buzzing, as it could make the car one of the few new luxury sedans still offering a stick shift.

Although Infiniti hasn’t confirmed the technical details, the car may share its platform with Nissan’s current Z sports car. That would make sense from a business standpoint and would allow Infiniti to deliver true sports car performance with luxury flair. More photos

The Nissan Z uses a platform originally shared with the old Infiniti G37, which itself evolved from the same architecture as the G35, a clear nod to the family heritage that fans remember so fondly.

No “G” Name, but the Spirit Lives On

Don’t expect this car to be called the “G45” or something similar. Infiniti will continue its current naming system for consistency across the brand. Still, Castro promised that the driving experience would evoke memories of the G35, characterized as fast, balanced, and rewarding to drive.

He emphasized that this won’t be a “straight-line speed only” car. Instead, Infiniti wants it to be an all-around performer, capable on twisty roads, responsive to driver input, and powerful enough to make every drive enjoyable.

A Bigger Plan: One New Infiniti Every Year

The new sedan is just part of Infiniti’s larger comeback plan. Starting in 2026, Infiniti will introduce one new vehicle every year, beginning with the all-new QX65 SUV.

The QX65 is set to be built in Tennessee at Nissan’s Smyrna plant and will act as a sportier, two-row version of the popular QX60. It’s expected to borrow design inspiration from the FX crossover, a stylish performance SUV that once defined Infiniti’s design language.

Following that, the brand will introduce the sport sedan in 2027, and then in 2028, a new hybrid SUV using Nissan’s E-Power technology.

Infiniti’s Future Hybrid SUV: Power Meets Efficiency

The 2028 hybrid SUV will be based on the same platform as the upcoming 2026 Nissan Rogue. It will use Nissan’s E-Power hybrid system, where the gasoline engine acts as a generator to charge the battery rather than drive the wheels directly.

This setup, already in use in Japan and Europe, enables smooth, electric-like acceleration with the range of a gas engine. Infiniti’s version will feature standard all-wheel drive and aims to deliver a quiet, refined, and powerful driving experience.

Castro confirmed that this model will play a big role in Infiniti’s sales goals, helping the brand hit 100,000 units by 2029, which also marks Infiniti’s 40th anniversary.

High-Performance QX80 Variants on the Horizon

Infiniti isn’t stopping there. The brand is also exploring new versions of its flagship SUV, the QX80. Two concepts, the Track Spec and Terrain Spec, were shown earlier this year to gauge interest.

The Track Spec focuses on street performance, boasting a twin-turbo V6 with more than 650 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque, while the Terrain Spec is built for serious off-road adventures. According to Castro, both are being considered for production, depending on business feasibility and market demand.

If approved, these models could give Infiniti an entirely new level of performance credibility, rivaling the likes of BMW’s M division or Mercedes-AMG in their respective categories.

EV Plans Delayed, But Not Abandoned

Interestingly, Infiniti’s electric vehicle program has been put on temporary hold. The company had originally planned to produce an EV in Canton, Mississippi, but those plans are paused as Infiniti reevaluates its timing amid slowing demand for electric vehicles.

For now, the focus will remain on internal combustion and hybrid models, with the possibility of future EVs once the market stabilizes.

Rebuilding a Luxury Brand

Tiago Castro, who took over leadership of Infiniti Americas just six months ago, made it clear that he’s determined to rebuild the brand’s reputation. Before accepting the job, he asked Nissan executives a tough question: Does Infiniti have a real future?

He was told yes, and not just in words. Nissan sees Infiniti as a vital part of its overall success. The two brands will share technology and platforms where it makes sense, but Infiniti will focus on quality, design, and driver engagement to stand apart from mainstream competitors.

Castro admitted that Infiniti won’t flood the market with dozens of models. Instead, the brand plans to focus on five to six strong vehicles, each unique in its segment and designed to deliver a premium experience.

He believes Infiniti doesn’t have to appeal to everyone; it just has to create cars people can fall in love with again.

The Bottom Line

Infiniti’s upcoming sport sedan marks a significant turning point for the brand. With rear-wheel drive, a possible manual transmission, and a focus on driving enjoyment, it’s shaping up to be the spiritual successor to the iconic G35 that enthusiasts have missed for nearly two decades.

Alongside its new SUVs and hybrid models, Infiniti’s roadmap shows real commitment to revival, and the kind of bold strategy that could put the brand back on the radar for drivers who crave performance, luxury, and emotion behind the wheel.The next few years could very well define Infiniti’s comeback story, and if this new sport sedan delivers what’s promised, it might just reignite the passion that made the G35 such a legend.

FAQs