Infiniti to withdraw from Australia

Look I’m on a plane right now on passing over Munich. But the following news just popped into my inbox. Nissan’s luxury arm Infiniti is bailing on Australia in late 2020. Hardly a surprise, but it has to be appreciated how long it managed to last. I hope all those behind the scenes are placed elsewhere within the Nissan Australia group. Here’s the full statement.

INFINITI Motor Company Ltd. (IML) announced today the next step in a strategic plan that will provide greater efficiencies as the brand focuses on priorities leading up to the electrification of its portfolio over the next three years.

As part of the plan, INFINITI will withdraw and conclude its sales operations in Australia in late 2020. Until this time, the Company will be working with INFINITI Australia dealers to remain operational for full sales and aftersales service.

INFINITI is committed to fulfilling its obligations to customers in Australia.
Beyond 2020, the Company is assessing the most effective and convenient way of providing full aftersales service for INFINITI owners in Australia, including service, maintenance and warranty repairs. The Company will confirm these arrangements in the months to come.

Globally, INFINITI will electrify its portfolio, discontinue diesel offerings and focus its resources on its best opportunities. The Company will place more focus on its SUV lineup in North America, bring five new vehicles to China over the next five years and work to improve quality of sales and residual value. These actions are all part of INFINITI’s vision to become a top challenger brand in the premium segment.