Infiniti to build new Mercedes A Class based model in UK

The new Infiniti premium hatch, based on the underpinnings of the new Mercedes A Class and looking like the Etherea Concept, will be built in the UK.

Infiniti announced only yesterday that it is introducing a new nomenclature for its cars (Q for saloons/coupes and QX for SUVs/Crossovers) and all new cars will come with a Q at the beginning followed by a number to denote its hierarchy in the Infiniti range.

Where exactly that leaves the name of the new ‘baby’ Infiniti, we’re not exactly sure (Q30 or Q40 seems the most likely), but we are pretty sure what it will look like and what will be under the skin.

Under the skin of the new baby Infiniti will be the new Mercedes A Class platform (MFA) and it’s expected engines will come from Mercedes too. That could mean everything from a small entry-level diesel to a rorty top-end Infiniti with the powertrain from the A45 AMG, by way of a hybrid version.

In terms of how it will look, the basis for the new Infiniti will be the Etherea Concept we saw at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011 (when it seemed likely it would become the Infiniti DX), although much of the ‘Concepty’ stuff like suicide doors and a removable roof will probably be binned for production.

The good news for the UK is that Nissan are investing £250 million in their plant in Sunderland to build the new baby Infiniti – starting in 2015 – creating 1,000 new jobs at Sunderland and in the supply chain in the process.

Another big vote by a major car maker for UK PLC.

Infiniti Etherea Concept Video