With a heritage dating back to 1957, the Nissan Skyline has long been a prominent presence in the automotive industry. Now, in response to evolving times, the Skyline is on the brink of a major transformation. There are strong indications that the Nissan Skyline will be reborn as an all-electric crossover SUV.
A recent report from Japanese publication Best Car suggests that development of the Skyline sedan has been put on hold. Instead, Nissan is said to be focusing on creating the next generation of the Skyline based on the electric Ariya crossover or its CMF-EV platform, with an anticipated launch in 2025. The electric Skyline is rumored to deliver over 450 horsepower through a multi-motor all-wheel drive system, although the specifics on whether it will feature a twin- or quad-motor setup remain unclear.
2023 Nissan Ariya E-4orce. James Gilboy
The electric Skyline model is expected to be available for purchase in the United States, rebranded as an Infiniti to cater to its upscale clientele. This move echoes previous instances where Skylines marketed in the U.S. were labeled as the G35, G37, or the current Q50. Notably missing from the discussion is any mention of a GT-R performance variant. While uncertainties surround the future of this iconic nameplate, indications suggest that it will continue to exist as a distinct model incorporating some form of electric powertrain.
Nissan is not the only Japanese automaker to capitalize on the crossover trend by reviving a classic model. The upcoming adaptation of the Toyota Crown to feature SUV body styles exemplifies this strategy. The rationale behind this trend is clear: SUVs are highly sought-after premium vehicles that align well with the luxury positioning of cars like the Crown and Skyline. This strategic move enables brands like Nissan and Toyota to leverage current market demands alongside the established reputation of their mainstream offerings. Though purists may raise objections, the majority of consumers are likely to embrace this evolution, irrespective of its direction.
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