The new generation Infiniti Q50: The manual transmission RWD sedan is back.
Infiniti is considering a second-generation Q50: a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 from the Nissan Z, potentially exceeding 450 horsepower, rear-wheel drive, and a manual transmission option; expected to go on sale in the second half of 2027.
Facing declining sales compared to a decade ago and a slowdown in electric vehicle demand, Infiniti is considering a strategic shift: developing the second-generation Q50 as a rear-wheel-drive sports sedan with a manual transmission option, instead of prioritizing electric vehicles. According to Automotive News, the new model is expected to use a 3.0L twin-turbo VR30DDTT V6 engine shared with the Nissan Z, with the potential to be tuned to exceed 450 horsepower. Sales are expected in the second half of 2027. Source: Motor1.
Returning to rear-wheel drive and manual transmission: a deliberate "impractical" decision.
In the modern luxury sedan segment, manual transmissions have almost disappeared. Therefore, Infiniti's consideration of bringing a manual transmission option back to the new Q50 is a differentiating signal, targeting drivers who value the mechanical connection with the car. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is expected to be standard, fitting the brand's traditional sporty DNA.
Tiago Castro, Vice President of Infiniti Americas, describes the redesigned Q50 generation as "unrepentant and unpredictable"; with an "instinctive" and "unpractical" personality. This statement shows Infiniti's deliberate intention to prioritize the driving experience over pure functionality.
VR30 twin-turbo: a performance platform and a "450+" horsepower figure.
The new Q50 is rumored to use the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine (VR30DDTT) currently found in the Nissan Z, producing 400 horsepower. According to sources, Infiniti may fine-tune it to exceed 450 horsepower for the second-generation Q50. While other detailed specifications haven't been released, the VR30DDTT choice suggests high performance potential thanks to its twin-turbocharger configuration and responsive revving.
The combination of RWD and the expected higher power output compared to the Nissan Z promises a distinctly sportier feel. However, figures for torque, acceleration time, and fuel efficiency will depend on Infiniti's final adjustments and have not yet been revealed.
The design is reminiscent of Skyline, with a refined identity.
A teaser image of the Q50S has been revealed, showing sharp headlights and round taillights – details reminiscent of the classic Skyline styling in Japan. This is a move back to its roots, leveraging the heritage that has made Infiniti so appealing in its rear-wheel-drive sports sedans.
Putting EVs on hold, preparing for the new Q50: roadmap and context.
Infiniti has discontinued the Q50 after the 2024 model year and phased out the Q60 coupe in 2022. The current lineup consists of only four SUVs. Initially, Infiniti planned to replace the Q50 with an all-electric model, but due to market changes – including slowing EV demand and the resurgence of traditional high-performance vehicles – this plan was put on hold in favor of the second-generation gasoline-powered Q50.
The new sports sedan is expected to go on sale in the second half of 2027, meaning consumers will need to wait a few more years to see the finished product. This also gives Infiniti time to fine-tune the technology, establish the product's positioning, and perfect the supply chain and shared platform with Skyline in Japan, as the source mentioned.
Quick summary: what is known and what is expected
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Car model | The second-generation Infiniti Q50 (US market) |
| Foundation | It is believed to be shared with the Skyline sedan (Japan). |
| Engine | V6 3.0L twin-turbo VR30DDTT (sourced from Nissan Z) |
| Power | 400 horsepower on the Nissan Z; the Q50 may exceed 450 horsepower (according to source). |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) – expected |
| Gear | A manual transmission option is available – expected. |
| Design | Sharp headlights, round taillights reminiscent of Skyline (teaser) |
| EV plan | Let's put that on hold for now to prioritize the new generation Q50 with a gasoline engine. |
| Sales roadmap | Expected in the second half of 2027 |
Unanswered questions
- Detailed performance specifications (torque, acceleration, top speed) have not yet been released.
- The available transmission configurations (manual and automatic) and the differences in equipment between versions are not yet clear.
- Specific interior features, amenities, and safety technologies have not been listed.
- Pricing, configurations for each market, and pre-order dates have not yet been confirmed.
Context: Why is the Q50 "traditional" now?
The move to refocus on gasoline-powered performance sedans is seen as a response to a shifting market. According to sources, EV demand is slowing while traditional high-performance models are seeing renewed interest. In this context, a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sedan with a manual transmission and a twin-turbo V6 engine is considered "extremely welcome" by enthusiasts and aligns with Infiniti's goal of refreshing its brand image.
Conclude
The next-generation Q50, if put into production as currently planned, would be a return to Infiniti's sporty sedan identity: RWD, optional manual transmission, and a potential VR30 twin-turbo engine producing over 450 horsepower. The projected timeline for the second half of 2027 allows the company to fine-tune the product to meet the expectations of car enthusiasts – a customer group Infiniti clearly wants to engage with directly in this return.
