Infiniti J30
The J30 replaced the Infiniti M30 in 1992 as a competitor to the Lexus GS and Acura Vigor. In 1995 the brand introduced the Infiniti I30, and sales of the J30 slowly faded as the I30 and later I35 offered more interior space. Officially, the J30 was in production from 1992 to 1997. The Infiniti J30 was an ambitious attempt by Infiniti to carve out a niche in the competitive luxury car market with a distinctive design approach. While its sales figures might not have reached the levels of some competitors, the J30 remains an interesting footnote in the history of luxury car design from the 1990s.
Infiniti J30 Overview
The Infiniti J30 was a mid-size luxury car produced by Infiniti, the luxury vehicle division of Nissan. The J30, known for its distinctive curvy design, was a pivotal model for the brand as it tried to cement its position in the luxury car segment during the 1990s.
One of the J30’s most distinguishing features was its unique exterior design, which featured a curvaceous and almost “organic” body shape. This was somewhat polarizing and set the car apart from its more conventionally styled competitors. The J30 was based on the Nissan Leopard chassis (J. Ferie internationally), a rear-wheel-drive platform. The car was powered by a 3.0-liter V6 VG30DE engine, producing around 210 horsepower. This engine was part of Nissan’s respected VG series. A 4-speed automatic was the sole transmission choice for the J30. True to its luxury branding, the J30’s interior was well-appointed with leather upholstery, wood trim, and a range of convenience features.
The J30 was aimed at the luxury sedan segment, going up against competitors like the Lexus ES, Acura Legend, and European offerings like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. While the car’s build quality and comfort were generally praised, its design was divisive. Some loved its distinctiveness, while others felt it was a departure from the more traditional luxury sedan look. Additionally, the J30’s rear seat space was criticized for being a bit tight compared to some rivals.
Infiniti J30 Sales Figures
The J30 represents an era when Infiniti was still finding its footing in the luxury market, experimenting with designs and trying to establish a distinct identity from rivals. Its unique design ensures it retains a place in automotive history, even if it didn’t achieve the sales success Infiniti might have hoped for.
Infiniti J30 U.S Sales Data & Charts
US Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 1992 | 13,820 |
| 1993 | 21,537 |
| 1994 | 22,777 |
| 1995 | 17,899 |
| 1996 | 7,564 |
| 1997 | 4,594 |
| 1998 | 1,783 |
| 1999 | 17 |
| 2000 | 1 |
