Infiniti brand here next year

Nissan is to introduce its luxury Infiniti brand to Europe, including Ireland, next year. The brand is currently marketed in the US, Asia and the Middle East as the firm's premium marque.

With a line-up that's quite different from Nissans, and running on different platforms, a decision has not been made as to which models will make their way to Europe.

However, with plans to secure incremental sales through the premium brand, it's unlikely that any cars will be introduced that might be regarded as competing with current Nissan models.

Dealer networks are likely to be set up on an individual country basis. The arrival of Inifiti has been rumoured for some time, and Nissan will be hoping to imitate Toyota's successful introduction of its premium brand Lexus onto the European markets.

Both Nissan and parent company Renault have had a chequered history at the premium end, with the most recent endeavour - Renault's Vel Satis - recording less than enthusiastic sales.

For Nissan in particular, premium-end customers seem to be less inclined to buy models that share the same badge as the likes of the supermini Micra.

The Infiniti range was originally launched in November 1989 with a luxury saloon and a coupé on sale. Since then the product line has been extended.

Among its most impressive products is an Sports Utility model called the FX45 that runs on 20-inch wheels and is a very striking sight on the road. The brand has also won several awards in its short history.

News of Infiniti's arrival next year comes as Nissan also announced that its Murano SUV will finally go on sale in Ireland early next year, slotting between the X-Trail and the Patrol. The American-based model is powered by a version of the 3.5-litre V6 from the 350Z, developing around 245 bhp.

However, sources say there will not be a turbodiesel available in this generation car - a potential hindrance in Europe.

It's claimed the Patrol's diesel unit wasn't refined enough for this car, which will compete against the Volvo XC90 and BMW X5.

The Murano may be on show at next month's Birmingham Motor but will probably make its first appearance over here at the Nissan Irish Open in Baltray on July 22nd to 25th.

Motors will have a road test report on the new Murano next week.