Are you planning to purchase a new or used Infiniti and you are looking to find out if are Infinitis reliable? Well, if that is the case, then you are at the right place because there will be quite a lot to cover on this topic and we are going to learn all about Infiniti as a brand.
- What Is Infiniti?
- Nissan vs Infiniti
- Pros & Cons
- Current Lineup
- Common Problems
- Best Models
- Worst Models
- Are They Reliable?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Doing your own research before you purchase a car should be one of your top priorities. Why we are saying this? Well, because it is true. On the market, there are dozens of car brands and each of these brands has dozens of models that have had generational updates. And these are thousands of models that were released throughout the years. Which is an absolutely crazy number.
So, proper investigation of a car brand and its history is probably one of the things that you should focus on. The background usually tells quite a lot about a carmaker and its overall impact on the market. Nowadays we have the internet where different experiences are shared and based on these experiences you should create your opinion and not allow it to be manipulated by car dealers. And this is why we are here to help you out.
First, we are going to learn what is Infiniti and the difference between Nissan and Infiniti. Then we are going to cover the pros and cons of having a car from this brand. We will also go through their lineup and see what they have to offer and also we will find out if are Infinitis reliable. With separate sections for both their most reliable models and least reliable models. So, if you want to learn more, follow along.
What Is Infiniti
Now before we dive into the topic of whether are Infinitis reliable, let’s take a look at what is Infiniti in general. A lot of people are not familiar with the brand, so we need to create a proper introduction for them. So, if you are one of those guys who want to learn more about the history of Infiniti follow along. If not you can jump to the chapters, where we cover the Infinity reliability.
Nevertheless, Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury brand. Infiniti is basically a spin-off from Nissan in the same fashion as Acura is for Honda and Lexus is for Toyota. Even though it is not as successful as the previous two mentioned brands.
Infiniti was created in 1989, at a time when all Japanese automotive brands created their own luxury brand and Nissan tried to replicate this success.
So, they created the Infiniti brand. They launched their first two models, the Q45 and M30. The one was based on the Nissan Leopard, while the Q45 was based on the Nissan President, which was a luxury sedan.
Still, the Infiniti brand was more export-oriented and the Q45 intended to go out on the US market and compete in the heavyweight category and try to match some names like the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7-series.
Even though this was not successful as with the case of the Lexus LS400, which became a true legend in the US market, it still delivered decent sales figures. And now after long years of being in the market, they have established themselves as a true player. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that we will cover in a bit.
Nissan vs Infiniti
Now let’s discuss another topic before we cover whether are Infinitis reliable. And this topic is connected with the difference between Nissan and Infiniti. How different are these brands in the first place?
Well, unlike Acura with Honda where their models basically overlap with each other. Infiniti actually is doing a very good job in making their Infiniti be an Infiniti, rather than a Nissan.
These cars are designed with a different design language in mind. And that is the sleek look with sharp headlights and the big black massive grille with chrome border and the big Infiniti logo in the center.
But the differences do not stop there. Infiniti vehicles are created with luxury in mind. This means that these cars are built to be comfortable and drive really well. Much better than the Nissan models.
They have beautiful leather interiors and they are basically a step ahead of Nissan. And that is the sole purpose of these models, craftsmanship. Not only to look better but also to be better in every other aspect.
In addition to the comfort, these models also offer a lot more performance. They have upgraded engines with more horsepower and smoother transmissions. So, you will not see a CVT transmission in an Infiniti, except maybe for the QX55.
The only models that Nissan makes that can outmatch the Infiniti in some areas are the Nissan GT-R and the Nissan Z. Still, even though Infiniti is better in a lot of areas it is a far cry when it comes to sales compared to Nissan and only gets about 150,000 sales annually in the US. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that we are going to cover in a bit.
Pros & Cons Of Infiniti Cars
Now let’s discuss more on the pros and cons of Infiniti. Knowing the pros and cons will definitely going to make your purchasing process quite a bit easier.
Everything has its positives and negatives. And so is the case with Infiniti. So, let’s cover the positive and negative sides when it comes to this brand to understand it a bit better. Then we will cover whether are Infinitis reliable or not.
Are Infinitis Reliable – Pros Of Getting An Infiniti
Now let’s begin with the pros of owning an Infiniti, what are the positives of having a car from this brand? Let’s elaborate.
When it comes to pros, we can say that there are more than a few. But we will try to list the most important ones for you. The first pro is probably the quality and craftsmanship that Infiniti cars offer.
This is a luxury brand, so whenever you get an Infiniti, you can expect that this car will be on a similar level to Lexus and Acura. Still, even though Infiniti was created to compete with the German trio, we cannot see a duel when it comes to Infiniti vs Audi, German cars are far ahead of the competition. But we can see a duel like Lexus vs Infiniti. Lexus is a lot more similar to Infiniti in all aspects.
Nevertheless, the second pro is the performance. Infiniti cars offer a lot of performance. They usually come in all-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive and they are really fun to drive for both fun and also for commuting. In fact, they are quite comfortable commuter cars. So, if you drive a lot and you want something comfy, this is it.
And the last pro that we are going to cover is the overall value. These cars retain their value a bit more than German cars do. Mainly because they are cheaper and do not lose a lot on the value in 5 years let’s say. This is why we would recommend you to get an Infiniti if you want to have a more long-term value. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that we are going to cover in a bit, let’s discuss more on the cons.
Are Infinitis Reliable – Cons Of Getting An Infiniti
When it comes to the cons of Infiniti models. We can say that there are not a lot of them. Their biggest con is probably the price.
But prices on these cars are expected to be more expensive than your average Nissan model because these vehicles target a wealthier audience.
Also, they are a little bit more expensive when it comes to maintenance. Maybe not as crazy expensive as a Benz or a BMW. But still, they are somewhere near that price range where you will experience some rather expensive repair bills if something brakes out of the warranty period.
This is why before you buy a car like this, you should see what type of budget you are dealing with and see if Infiniti is in your price range. But are Infinitis reliable? Well, more on that, we are going to cover it in a bit. Let’s first learn more about their lineup.
Types Of Infiniti Cars
Now before we cover the topic of whether are Infinitis reliable. Let’s take a look a the different types of Infiniti cars.
If you didn’t know, there are sedans, coupes, and SUVs in their lineup. In the following chapters, we are going to discuss them briefly before we cover whether are Infinitis reliable or not.
Are Infinitis Reliable, Current Models #1: Infiniti Q50
The first model that we are going to cover is the Infiniti Q50. This is the compact executive car that Infiniti offers. This model is in the same range as the BMW 3-series or Mercedes C-Class.
This model was introduced in 2013 and is still produced today. The model is based on the Nissan FM platform that is shared with the Infiniti Q60 which we are going to cover in a bit.
What is important to note is that this model comes with a few V6 engines as well as a 7-speed automatic transmission. The base price of the Q50 is $42,650. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that in a bit.
Are Infinitis Reliable, Current Models #2: Infiniti Q60
The second model on our list is the Infiniti Q60. So, what is the Q60? Well, this model is the luxury coupe that Infiniti offers. This model is quite comparable to the 4-Series coupe by BMW.
Nevertheless, this model shares a lot with the Q50 that we covered, it is based on the same platform and basically shares most of the mechanicals. Even though this is a fairly newer model introduced in 2016. But sadly, the production is ending in 2022. So, this might be the last chance to get a new model.
This model comes with two different engines, a 2.0L Mercedes Benz turbo that is making 208hp and a Nissan V6 twin-turbo that is creating up to 400hp for the most powerful version. The transmission used is a 7-speed automatic. This model also starts at $42,650. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that we are going to cover in a bit.
Are Infinitis Reliable, Current Models #3: Infiniti QX50 & QX55
Now let’s cover two models. Namely the QX50 and QX55. Why so? Well, mainly because these cars are practically the same model. The only difference is that the QX50 is a standard SUV, while the QX55 is an SUV coupe.
Nevertheless, this is a rather fresh model introduced in 2019. And frankly, it is one of the best-looking compact crossovers on the market that has a lot of nice features.
It comes with a 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine that is producing 268hp and uses an Xtronic CVT automatic transmission.
The price for the standard version QX50 starts at $39,150, while the QX55 coupe starts at $49,150. In our thoughts, the standard QX50 is quite a deal for this price. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that in a bit.
Are Infinitis Reliable, Current Models #4: Infiniti QX60
The next model on our list is the QX60. The QX60 is the mid-size SUV that Infiniti offers on the US market. And this is also a rather new model that implements a ton of modern features and tech.
This model debuted for the 2022 model year and looks really nice. With modern contemporary design language and interior with two massive screens as any other car should be these days.
This model also comes with a single engine. And this is the good old 3.5L VQ35DD Nissan engine that is making 295hp. The transmission used on this model is a ZF 9-speed automatic. The model comes at a starting price of $49,200. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that next.
Are Infinitis Reliable, Current Models #5: Infiniti QX80
Now let’s cover the last model in the lineup and this is the QX80. This model is the full-size SUV that Infiniti offers on the US market. This model shares the same platform with the Nissan Titan and Nissan Armada. This means that this is a full-body-on-frame design.
The model debuted in 2010 and is still in production as of 2022. What is important to note is that the model was facelifted in 2018. The model comes with the reliable 5.6L VK56VD V8 Nissan engine and this engine is combined with a 7-speed automatic transmission.
The base price of the model is $72,700. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that we are going to cover in a bit. Let’s now discuss about the common problems with Infiniti models.
Infiniti Cars Common Problems
So, we have covered all about Infiniti, now let’s cover more about the common problems that bother Infiniti.
Let’s start with the sedans. Namely, the G35. When it comes to the G35, a lot of owners have reported increased oil consumption on the V6 engine. Also, problems with the timing chain breaking on this model are present as well.
The G37 was also rather problematic and there were a number of reports. But not concerned with the powertrain, but rather with other issues. Namely, a cracked dashboard on the 2007 model, electrical problems and failure of the electric system, steering lock failures, paint chipping (unless you understand how to fix paint chips on car), and other small imperfections. But overall, this model is rather good.
On the Q50, there were reports about the infotainment system does not work well as advertised. Problems with warped brake rotors were rather common occurrences.
On the JX35, there were issues with the CVT transmissions. As you probably know, Nissan has problems with the CVT transmissions, they tend to wear out too quickly and fail. So, a new one or a rebuild is rather expensive to do.
The QX4 model is known to drink a lot of oil and blown head gaskets as well. The QX56 also has a fair share of problems. There were timing chain failures reported on the model, as well as some problems with the paint. The paint on this model simply starts to peel off too quickly and a lot of owners had to do a respray on some panels.
The V6 engine on the QX60 is prone to create oil sludge. Especially the 2017 model which has the most complaints on it. Some owners had to replace the engine. Also, CVT failures. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that next.
Best Infiniti Car
Now as we covered the most common problems before we dive into whether are Infinitis reliable. Let’s take a look at the best models in terms of reliability. Which Infiniti model are rock solid?
When it comes to this category, our vote goes for the QX80. If you are in the market for a full-size SUV, then this vehicle is the right one for you. It has a rather bulletproof engine. Namely, the 5.6L that is used in the Titan.
Another model that we would like to recommend is the new QX60 generation. This model comes with a very reliable 3.5L V6 made by Nissan and also has a good transmission that delivers excellent fuel economy. Namely, the ZF 9-speed. Even though this transmission can be clunky for some carmakers because of bad programming software. So, do a test drive before you buy to make sure that the transmission shifts well.
Also, if you are after a sedan, the Q50 is a really good model that you can purchase new or used. Just avoid the first two production years. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that in a bit.
Worst Infiniti Car
When it comes to the worst models in terms of reliability, we would recommend avoiding anything from Infiniti that has a CVT automatic with no specific model. Also, avoid the G35 because it loves to drink a lot of oil. But are Infinitis reliable? More on that next.
Are Infinitis Reliable
So, are Infinitis reliable? Well, this really depends on the model. Newer models are far more reliable than the old ones. Especially the ones from the mid-00s and early 10s. These have the most issues of all. So, try to avoid them.
Also, try to avoid models with high miles that have a CVT automatic. Overall, the CVT automatic transmission is not a strong side of Nissan and these models often break down and a new transmission will be required.
But overall, we can say that Infiniti are reliable cars. Still, they are not produced in mass numbers like other car brands so some problems are left unreported by owners. This is why checking some forums online about Nissan or Infiniti might be a good idea for you to learn about the model that you plan to purchase and read some first-hand experiences. Now let’s conclude this article about are Infinitis reliable.
Conclusion
In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to Infiniti vehicles. First, we learned what is Infiniti and a little bit more about the history of this brand.
Then we covered the difference between Infiniti and Nissan and the pros and cons of Infiniti cars. After that, we discussed the lineup, and then we moved on to the problems that these vehicles have. We covered the best models and also the least reliable models that are out there and whether are Infinitis reliable or not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
Is Infiniti Nissan
Yes, technically they are the same company. Infiniti is basically the luxury division of Nissan that they created in the 1980s in order to offer more upscale models on the market. Just like Honda did with Acura and Toyota with Lexus.
Who Makes Infiniti Cars
Infiniti cars are made by Nissan. All Infiniti models use Nissan platforms, engines, and transmissions. The difference is the target audience of the cars. Nissan offers more utilitarian cars, while Infiniti offers more upscale models for the wealthier audience.
Does Infiniti Own Nissan
No, it is completely the opposite of that. Nissan owns Infiniti. Nissan created Infiniti in the 1980s to be their luxury division. So, the market for Infiniti cars is only the wealthier audience that wants to spend a little bit more money on cars.
What Is Nissan Luxury Brand
Nissan’s luxury brand is Infiniti. They are basically cars for the people who want a Nissan but at a higher level. These cars are equipped with a lot of technology and features that will deliver the driver maximum comfort.
Are Infinitis Good Cars
Yes, they are genuinely good cars. Not good as Lexus or Acura but still relatively good and reliable cars overall. Only in some of the models, the Nissan CVT transmission can be a problem. So, better avoid these, just to be on the safe side.
Are Infiniti Expensive To Maintain
Yes, they are more expensive to maintain. Not too much expensive, only a little bit more. Mainly because they are a luxury brand and as we all know, luxury brands are rather expensive to maintain overall.
