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Infiniti is the division of the Japanese auto manufacturer Nissan, and serves as
their luxury-import brand in the US and Canadian markets.
It was first introduced to the United States in 1989, to offer direct
competition to the luxury lines of rival companies Toyota and Honda (Lexus and
Acura, respectively). A series of Zen-inspired "rocks and trees" advertisements
was part of a campaign for brand awareness, but the vehicles experienced
production delays, and no cars were shown, and the ad campaign ran longer than
originally planned.
Later, better advertising and award-winning models would do much to improve
sales.It was the popular Q45 that lead Infiniti to take part of the luxury
market. The vehicle included a class leading (at the time) 278 hp V8 engine,
four wheel steering, the first active suspension system offered on a motor
vehicle, and numerous interior comfort features.
Early Infinitis had unique platforms, but most are currently based on existing
Nissan models. Some are spiffed up versions of existing Nissans sold in the same
market, while others are rebranded models from the Japanese market where
Nissan's line includes high-end luxury vehicles.
Model name designations for the Infiniti include one letter for coupes and
sedans and two for SUVs with a number reflecting engine displacement. As an
example, the Q45, Infiniti's flagship sedan through 2006, has a 4.5 liter
engine. An "x" following the number signifies an all-wheel drive model car.
Today, in addition to the US and Canada, Infiniti is marketed in Mexico, South
Korea, and the Middle East, with plans to expand into Europe in 2007 and the UK
in 2008.
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