[heinz30]

Raise your hand if you have been confused as to the substantive differences between the Q30 and the QX30 models that will be up for sale shortly.

Well, Infiniti appears to have finally recognized that it is a confusing naming strategy for consumers, and it is righting its wrong. Better late than never.

In a statement released today, Infiniti said the company will offer three different versions of the QX30 in North America.

The entry-level model is known as the Q30 in other markets and it will be available exclusively with front-wheel drive. The mid-level QX30S is essentially a renamed version of the Q30S and it is distinguished by a sportier front bumper, a reduced ride height, cross-drilled front brake rotors, and unique 19-inch alloy wheels with performance tires.

Last but not least, the QX30 AWD will be North America's version of the QX30. It features an increased ride height, ruggedized bumpers, and a standard all-wheel drive system.

Infiniti likes to change the name of its vehicles just to keep consumers on edge. They are really in tune with customers, and have conviction when they make decisions. Way to learn from past mistakes...

Infiniti now is “digging our way out of” the naming switch and awareness of the brand and its models has been improving, he says.

“I think people are finally getting used to it. I think it took a little bit of training for dealers and everybody else to realize there’s actually some (naming) logic (according to) size and price.”

But while McNamara and an Infiniti spokesman agree the name changes were needed for the brand’s long-term success, in hindsight the rollout could have been better implemented. Advertising to communicate the new names or waiting to change a name until a vehicle was redesigned are two ways they say the plan could have been improved upon.

 

[Infiniti_Guy]

Now that's beginning to make sense, would be odd if they had two completely different models that came as close as people originally though they did. At that point it seems that they were spreading themselves out too thin.

 

[heinz30]

I can just imagine how much time sales people were just saved in having to explain the differences between the two models.

 

[Infiniti_Guy]

I can just imagine how much time sales people were just saved in having to explain the differences between the two models.

yeah that would waste a lot of time, at least now the process of getting them to sign the papers is that much faster now. I bet the whole confusing part could even impact sales slightly... making it harder for some to understand. Just imagine what its like describing this to the average person.