Infiniti to cease European sales

Nissan’s luxury arm Infiniti has confirmed it will stop producing cars in the UK in July, as part of its plan to withdraw from the European car market by 2020.

Currently, the brand produces the Q30 and QX30 at Nissan’s Sunderland plant.

Infiniti sales were down 78% last year, with 750 cars registered, according to SMMT figures.

In a statement, the brand said it will focus on its largest growth markets, specifically North America and China: “As part of the plan, Infiniti will electrify its portfolio from 2021 onward, discontinue diesel offerings and focus its resources on its biggest opportunities. The Company will place more focus on its SUV line up in North America, bring five new vehicles to China over the next five years, work to improve quality of sales and residual value, and realize more synergies with Nissan Motor Company. This is all part of Infiniti’s vision to become a top challenger brand in the premium segment.”

Infiniti retail operations are to remain operational until a tailored transition plan is put in place for continued aftersales services, including vehicle servicing, maintenance and warranty repairs.