Infiniti Challenges Lexus With New M35h GT Hybrid Sedan
Infiniti, the global luxury car brand, has introduced a more affordable version of its M35h hybrid, the M35h GT, priced at £41,101. This move comes as Infiniti aims to challenge Lexus, its main rival in the hybrid luxury sedan segment.
Infiniti, unlike Lexus which is primarily sold in Japan, is targeting the global market. The M35h GT is a cheaper alternative to the standard M35h, which starts at £46,840 in the UK. This places it directly in competition with the Lexus GS 450h in the US, as highlighted in an Infiniti advert.
Infiniti's strategy is clear: it's focusing on hybrid technology to take on Lexus, rather than pushing performance cars. This is evident in the rarity of the Infiniti FX 30d, a non-hybrid model, in the market. However, Infiniti lags behind Lexus in sales in major markets like the US and Europe, despite its push in the UK and Europe.
Infiniti claims the M35h is the world's fastest full hybrid, suggesting its appeal to performance-oriented buyers. Yet, Lexus has a gap in the market for traditional owners who prefer non-hybrid powertrains.
Infiniti's introduction of the M35h GT at a lower price point is a strategic move to challenge Lexus in the hybrid luxury sedan segment. While Infiniti lags behind Lexus in sales, the M35h's performance and the gap in the market for non-hybrid Lexus owners present opportunities for Infiniti to gain a competitive edge.
