Infiniti Confirms UK Production for New Premium Hatchback
Infiniti will build its first premium compact hatchback at Nissan’s Sunderland plant from 2015, targeting rivals like the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3.
Infiniti has officially confirmed plans to produce a new premium compact hatchback at Nissan’s Sunderland factory, with production set to begin in 2015. This marks Infiniti’s first foray into the European hatchback segment and represents a significant milestone for the Nissan-owned luxury brand. The decision is supported by a substantial £250 million investment, which is expected to generate 1,000 new jobs in the UK, including 280 positions directly at the Sunderland plant.
Infiniti’s First European Hatchback
This new model will be Infiniti’s first hatchback and also its first front-wheel drive car. The move positions Infiniti directly against established European rivals such as the BMW 1 Series, Audi A3, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. By entering this segment, Infiniti is aiming to broaden its appeal and gain a foothold in a market traditionally dominated by German manufacturers.
Platform and Design Origins
The forthcoming Infiniti hatchback will be based on the Etherea concept, which debuted in 2011. It will utilise the Mercedes MFA (Modular Front Architecture) platform, the same underpinnings found in the current Mercedes A-Class and B-Class. This technical collaboration stems from the partnership between Daimler and the Renault-Nissan Alliance. The MFA platform is known for its flexibility, supporting both front- and all-wheel drive layouts, though Infiniti’s initial offering will be front-wheel drive.
By sharing proven Mercedes engineering, Infiniti aims to deliver a driving experience and build quality that meets European expectations, while differentiating the car through its own design language and interior appointments. The Etherea-inspired styling is expected to set the new hatchback apart visually from its German competitors.
Production and Jobs Impact
Nissan’s £250 million investment in the Sunderland plant will allow for the necessary upgrades and expansion to accommodate Infiniti production. The company has set an ambitious annual production target of 60,000 units for the new hatchback. The investment is expected to create 1,000 new jobs in the UK, with 280 of those at the Sunderland facility itself. The remaining positions will be spread across the wider supply chain and supporting industries, providing a significant boost to the region’s automotive sector.
The Sunderland plant is already home to high-volume Nissan models such as the Qashqai and Juke. The addition of Infiniti production will further diversify the plant’s output and reinforce its importance within Nissan’s European manufacturing network.
Market Positioning and Competition
Infiniti’s new hatchback will be entering a highly competitive segment that is currently dominated by German luxury brands. By producing the car in the UK and leveraging Mercedes technology, Infiniti aims to match or exceed the expectations of European buyers in terms of quality, refinement, and driving dynamics. The hatchback is expected to go on sale in 2015 or 2016, with full pricing and specification details to be announced closer to launch.
| Model | Key Features |
|---|---|
| BMW 1 Series | Longstanding segment leader, offers rear- and front-wheel drive options |
| Audi A3 | Renowned for refinement and a broad range of engines |
| Mercedes-Benz A-Class | Shares MFA platform with Infiniti hatchback |
Infiniti’s entry is expected to appeal to buyers seeking an alternative to the established German brands, especially those interested in innovative design and advanced technology. The use of the MFA platform and the Sunderland production base are both intended to help Infiniti meet the high standards of the European premium hatchback market.
Strategic Importance for Infiniti
The Sunderland-built Infiniti hatchback represents a strategic move for the brand as it seeks to establish a stronger presence in Europe. The launch of this model will not only diversify Infiniti’s portfolio but also test the brand’s ability to compete in a segment where customer expectations for quality and performance are particularly high.
Success in this segment could pave the way for further Infiniti models to be built in Europe and could encourage additional investment in UK automotive manufacturing. Ultimately, the reception of the new hatchback will be closely watched as an indicator of Infiniti’s prospects in the European market.
