A new Nissan Skyline is on the horizon, and amidst the company’s financial challenges, it seems unlikely that this model will adopt an extreme design direction. The Skyline moniker has a storied past, encompassing both saloons and coupes. Recently, it was synonymous with the Infiniti Q50 in Western markets. However, as Nissan seeks to restore profitability, there are murmurs about whether the Skyline name might transition to an SUV. This wouldn't be unprecedented, as the Skyline label has already adorned a crossover model.
Historically, the Nissan Skyline has been associated with legendary performance vehicles. Yet, in a surprising twist, the brand once utilized the Skyline name for a crossover known in other regions as the Infiniti EX50. This vehicle, branded as the Nissan Skyline Crossover in Japan, offered more power than some of the famed GT-R models, thanks to its VQ37 3.7-liter naturally-aspirated V6 engine. Despite impressive horsepower figures, the crossover lacked the allure of its high-performance siblings.
Produced between 2008 and 2016, the Nissan Skyline Crossover maintained consistent specifications throughout its lifecycle. Although incremental updates occurred, they failed to generate much excitement. Nissan eventually opted not to market the subsequent QX50 under the Skyline Crossover name, despite retaining the sedan version as part of the lineup.
The legacy of the Nissan Skyline Crossover concludes for now, but the question remains: Will history repeat itself? As Nissan charts its course toward recovery, only time will reveal if the iconic Skyline nameplate finds a new home in the form of an SUV.
While the possibility of a Skyline-branded SUV may raise eyebrows, it reflects Nissan's strategic approach to redefining its portfolio. By exploring different applications for the Skyline name, the automaker aims to align its offerings with current market demands while honoring its heritage. Whether or not the next chapter involves an SUV, the evolution of the Skyline series promises to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide.