Report: Infiniti Q50 Returns in 2027 with Z Engine and Manual Transmission

by Chris Teague

Published: August 21st, 2025

report infiniti q50 returns in 2027 with z engine and manual transmission

Infiniti discontinued the Q50 last year, but the automaker is now planning a replacement, and it’s not an EV. A gas-powered s econd-generation Q50 is expected in late 2027, and it will likely arrive with a performance variant and a manual gearbox.

The new Q50 will move to a rear-drive platform and will be available with a manual transmission, with sources telling Automotive News that, “The new Q50 is a visceral car with a twin-turbo that screams. It’s not practical, but it is fun.” Infiniti believes the updated Q50 will tug on the heartstrings of enthusiasts who grew up driving the G35 and other sporty models from the brand.

The car will likely feature the same V6 engine from the Nissan Z, where it makes 400 horsepower. Some expect the Q50 to sport an upgraded version of that mill with the output boosted to 450 horsepower, and Infiniti’s teaser images show a sleek car with Skyline-like round taillights.

Infiniti is expected to reveal new SUV models in 2026, but its lineup has dwindled as parent company Nissan undergoes rough times, and recent trade policy changes have caused issues. Infiniti cut half its lineup in the country after dropping smaller crossovers built in Mexico due to the tariffs, so an exciting new sports car could be what the doctor ordered.

[Images: Infiniti]

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Chris Teague

Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.

More by Chris Teague

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2 of 53 comments

Bkojote on Aug 21, 2025

When Stellantis finally croaks and becomes a brand licensing subsidiary of Xiangjiang-Geely-Trump-Avtovaz State Holdings™ I hope they license this platform for the next Charger.

2 Reply
Mitchell Leitman on Aug 23, 2025

By moving to a rear drive platform, do you mean they won't have AWD?

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