OEM INFINITI Parts vs Aftermarket: What’s the Difference?

Displayed proudly at the front of every new INFINITI model, the INFINITI logo blends Japanese aesthetic philosophy with futuristic engineering concepts. In addition to showing off our large inventory of new and pre-owned INFINITI models, the team at Southwest INFINITI also loves sharing the history of the iconic luxury automaker. This is the story and design history behind the INFINITI logo. more The Endless Road and Vanishing Horizon The INFINITI logo debuted alongside the brand in 1989. The iconic metallic badge features an oval surrounding two dynamic lines that converge toward a central point. The two interior lines represent a highway extending toward the horizon, symbolizing endless possibilities and continuous automotive innovation. Where the lines meet is an apex, which represents the vanishing point over a distant horizon, reflecting a constant drive toward the future. In addition to the logo, you may have wondered about the unique spelling of INFINITI. This was chosen because the four I’s mirror highway lane markers and create visual balance. Evolution of the Logo Over the more than three decades of the INFINITI brand, the badge has evolved subtly while retaining its core identity and connection to Japanese aesthetics. Early flagship INFINITI models, such as the original 1989 INFINITI Q45, featured detailing that utilized traditional metal ribbon techniques. Recent versions have introduced a dynamic 3D emblem set within a double-arch grille inspired by origami and traditional Japanese bridges. Finally, modern illuminated badges use clean LED accent lighting to highlight the converging horizon lines during night driving. Browse Our New INFINITI Models in Houston, TX You’ll see the INFINITI logo on the new SUVs and crossovers here at Southwest INFINITI. Our team is ready to show off the latest technological innovations, powerful powertrains, and reassuring safety systems. Visit us today!

One of the most common financing questions that we receive here at Southwest INFINITI is regarding gap insurance in Texas. Gap insurance, shorthand for Guaranteed Asset Protection insurance, is a special type of insurance that helps protect you against total loss scenarios. The team of finance professionals at Southwest INFINITI explains how gap insurance works to keep your vehicle protected, as well as whether or not it is required. more Does Texas State Law Mandate Gap Coverage? State regulations in Texas do not legally require gap insurance for vehicle owners. Standard car insurance policies only require minimum liability coverage to cover damage to other vehicles in an accident. However, financial institutions, leasing companies, and lenders sometimes require gap insurance as a mandatory condition of your financing agreement. This requirement protects the lender’s financial interest if the vehicle is totaled or stolen before your loan balance is paid down. Why You Should Consider Gap Insurance Gap insurance covers the negative equity “gap” between your auto insurer’s actual cash value payout and your total remaining loan balance. Though it is not required in Texas, there are still good reasons to purchase it: Depreciation Protection: New INFINITI models lose their value the fastest during the first few years of ownership, creating financial issues if a total loss occurs. Longer Loan Terms: Spreading payments across 60 to 72 months slows down your principal reduction, which makes gap insurance more beneficial. Low Down Payment Buffer: Putting down less than 20 percent leaves you with a larger balance to pay off. Standard collision insurance may not cover this. Consult Our INFINITI Finance Experts in Houston, TX The finance team at Southwest INFINITI is happy to help you decide if gap insurance is right for you. Visit us today to determine if this optional coverage can help you.

When it comes to getting behind the wheel of a new INFINITI model, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to finance or lease. If you choose to finance, applying the 20/4/10 rule to INFINITI financing is an excellent way to ensure that your new car fits into your monthly budget. Here at Southwest INFINITI, our professional team of finance experts works with you to structure loan terms that fit your long-term financial goals. more Overview of the 20/4/10 Formula The 20/4/10 rule is a classic budgeting guideline that breaks down your vehicle purchase into three sections: 20 Percent Down Payment: Putting down at least 20 percent upfront lowers your total principal, offsets depreciation, and secures better interest rates from lenders. 4-Year Loan Term: Setting a 48-month or four-year loan term prevents you from owing more than the vehicle is worth while also minimizing interest charges. 10 Percent Gross Income Cap: Finally, keep your total monthly vehicle expenses, including payment, insurance, and fuel, under 10 percent of your gross income. This gives you breathing room in your budget. How to Apply the Rule to INFINITI Financing While the 20/4/10 rule provides an excellent baseline, INFINITI buyers often will tweak these parameters based on vehicle trade-ins or alternative credit offers. High-value trade-ins sometimes cover the entire 20 percent down payment requirement without any out-of-pocket cash. Additionally, if you prefer upgrading to new INFINITI models every few years, you might opt for a short-term lease instead of a 4-year loan. Speak with Our INFINITI Financing Team in Houston, TX No matter what type of loan structure is right for you, the team at Southwest INFINITI is here to help. Our finance professionals can match you with a loan that fits your budget. Visit us today for personalized assistance.