Infiniti launched the Cefiro in North America as the Infiniti I30 for model year 1996, manufactured at Oppama, Japan (where the Maxima was built), commencing June 27, 1995. To reduce ambiguity in the nameplate, the rear I30 emblem used two fonts: a cursive letter "I" combined with a serif font for the "30", eliminating the possibility the emblem would be read as 130".

As Infiniti's top seller then, the I30 was the brand's all-new mid-level model, replacing the Infiniti J30. The I30 was positioned between the top-level, all-new Infiniti Q45, and all-new entry-level Primera-based Infiniti G20. The Infiniti I30 was also marketed in South Korea and Indonesia. In January 1997, the Cefiro "Brown Selection" was added to the lineup in Japan, equipped with the I30's chromed front grille and a brown interior.

The I30 shared the 3.0-liter VQ30DE V6 engine producing 190 hp (142 kW) with the North American Maxima. Revisions to the I30 over the generation included revised tail lights and trunk garnish. The Touring model, I30t, gained five-spoke alloy wheels, more firm suspension tuning, and a spoiler and BBS wheels. A small number of first-generation I30s had five-speed manual transmissions, many with VLSD. An in-dash hands-free car phone was available as an option.