Japanese luxury automobile manufacturer Infiniti has unveiled the QX65, a new midsize SUV, as part of its efforts to regain market presence in the United States. Featuring a 268-horsepower VC-Turbo engine delivering 286 foot-pounds of torque, the QX65 also includes dual 12.3-inch displays. According to Eric Ledieu, vice president of Infiniti Americas, the launch of the QX65 marks a new chapter for the brand.
Infiniti has experienced a significant decline in sales since 2017 when it recorded a peak of 153,000 vehicle sales, a number which dropped to just about one-third of that figure last year. A recent report indicates that Infiniti’s sales fell 9% in 2025, continuing a downward trend that has left the brand in a precarious position with only two nameplates currently available. In contrast, rivals such as Lexus and Acura have seen increases in their sales during the same period.
Automotive analyst Stephanie Brinley noted that Infiniti has been in a “product lull” for several years. While the brand aims to boost its offerings, the support from parent company Nissan has been inconsistent. Currently, Infiniti offers two 2026 models, with the QX65 set to become the third, entering a lucrative segment of the market. With a starting price of $53,990, the QX65 is positioned below the average price of luxury midsize SUVs.
The vehicle’s unveiling took place at New York City’s Grand Central Terminal and featured NFL stars Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman as hosts. Infiniti plans to introduce one new model each year over the next five years, seeking to revitalize the brand and reclaim its standing in the automotive industry.
Why this story matters
- Infiniti is working to recover from a significant sales decline.
Key takeaway
- The launch of the QX65 aims to reinvigorate the brand’s presence in a competitive luxury SUV market.
Opposing viewpoint
- Some analysts remain skeptical about Infiniti’s potential for a turnaround, citing a history of inconsistent product offerings.
