Infiniti to launch two halo models by 2020

Nissan's Infiniti luxury brand has confirmed that it will launch two new halo models by 2020. Infiniti has been without a true flagship since the Q45 ended production in 2006.

In a recent interview with Automotive News, Infiniti head Johan de Nysschen confirmed that the brand is working on two new halo models – a flagship sedan and a range-topping two-door. De Nysschen describes the new models as "high-performance luxury cars, not a sports car." He added that Infiniti's flagship sedan will not be a direct competitor to vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

"It will be more Porsche Panamera-like than BMW 7-Series-like," De Nysschen said.

In addition to the sedan, Infiniti will also offer a coupe version of the flagship, much like Mercedes' S-Class-based CL coupe.

"We could then quite conceivably use the same platform to create a more compact 2+2, two-door coupe that could perhaps just dial up the performance and design appeal."

The two cars will share platforms and drivetrains, but will be fitted with different bodies. Look for the Essence concept to inspire the styling of both vehicles.