What to expect from the upcoming Infiniti QX80 and how it will carry on the traditions of its forerunner
- The Infiniti QX80 is getting a redesign that has been long delayed, and the recently revealed QX monograph concept provides a glimpse of the forthcoming design.
- The concept’s refined appearance is anchored by its redesigned grille, which takes design cues from nature, as well as its LED headlamps and its streamlined side profile. There will be some modifications to the illumination, but otherwise it will look similar to the existing QX80.
- An all-digital instrument cluster, infotainment displays with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, heated and cooled seats, a panoramic glass roof, keyless entry, and opulent materials are just some of the expected updates to the new QX80’s cabin.
There have been two generations of the Infiniti QX, with the current second-gen model being manufactured since 2010. It debuted as the QX56, was renamed in 2015, and again in 2017 to the present-day QX80. It hasn’t changed much in over a decade, save for a little update in 2018. However, Infiniti will soon release the third-generation QX80.
Recently, Infiniti revealed its new QX monograph concept, which they say is a sneak peek at their future designs. However, the next SUV is heavily hinted at by this idea. The Infiniti QX80 desperately needed a redesign, and this new model could be just what the company needs to reclaim its place among the elite of the Luxury SUV segment.
The QX80 Features a Simple, Familiar Layout.
Even though it’s just a concept, the QX monograph appears like a production-ready car. Even if Infiniti had merely released the photos without any explanation, many people would have assumed they were looking at the new QX80. The new grille up front is based on what Infiniti calls “natural” inspiration; more specifically, it’s meant to evoke the peaceful patterns of a bamboo grove. Infiniti’s new logo, meant to provide a 3D impression and illuminate, replaces the previous emblem in the center of the grill.
The front headlights of this idea are particularly eye-catching, featuring a slim LED light strip that also functions as Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). This style, which Infiniti dubs “digital piano keys,” also has an impressive light show upon arrival and departure, much like that of Audi automobiles. The backlit logo and flanking fog lights are nice touches, too. Unlike the existing vehicle, in which the grille and headlights appear to be from two different designs, this one’s entire front end is a seamless mix.
The side profile is incredibly sleek, looking almost identical to the existing QX80 but with additional refinement. It sports a sizable rearview mirror, a sleek but pronounced arch design, and possibly 22-inch or larger turbine-style wheels. The door knobs, which are flush with the door, should spring out when the door is unlocked. All of the roof, including the roof rails, is jet black to match the rest of the body.
Like the front, the new lightbar, which is styled like a digital piano keyboard, is prominent towards the vehicle’s tail. Although there are no obvious tailpipes, this is still a concept car. The new QX80 takes a clean aesthetic approach like the new Range Rover, but is still easily recognizable as a QX80. A new automobile from Infiniti may seem very similar to this idea, despite the company’s claims to the contrary. The production version, however, will feature a few tweaks, most noticeably in the lighting department.
It needs a complete makeover on the inside.
However, the existing vehicle’s inside is archaic and wasn’t showcased in any of the concept images. A brand-new interior complete with touchscreens and other cutting-edge technologies is required. The cabin of the new Infiniti QX80 should look similar to that of the 2022 QX60. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on the infotainment screen and a fully digital instrument cluster should be the norm.
Possible other characteristics include:
- A wireless charging pad
- Heated and cooled seats
- Panoramic glass roof
- Ambient lighting
- Keyless entry etc.
These and other amenities are standard on vehicles in this class of luxury. As a large SUV with three rows of seats, it should have enough space for seven passengers. The second-row seating should be configurable as either captain’s chairs or standard benches. The final step would be to cover every surface in plush leather and complementary materials like wood or chrome finishes.
A V-6 engine would take the place of the V-8.
The QX80’s naturally aspirated V-8 engine is a refined version of the first-gen powerplant. After over two decades of using the same engine with minor upgrades here and there, it’s time for a replacement. It was a strong and reliable engine that worked well for its intended purpose. The new QX80, however, may feature a V-6 engine like those of competitors like Toyota.
Parameters of the OX80’s V-8 Engine
- Engine – Naturally aspirated V-8
- Displacement – 5.6 liters
- Power – 400 Horsepower
- Torque – 413 pound-feet
- Transmission – Seven speed Automatic
- Drivetrain – All-wheel drive
- Towing Capacity – 8,500 pounds
A new twin-turbo V-6 with slightly greater power and torque than the old unit will likely be installed. It’s possible that Infiniti’s new nine-speed automatic transmission will replace the older seven-speed unit. The existing vehicle only achieves a pitiful 15MPG on the highway, but with a new engine and transmission, that number should rise significantly. As with most of the competition, this would be the hybrid powertrain’s entry level model.
Improved Road Manners and Off-Road Performance
When compared to rivals like the Toyota, which uses a solid rear axle, the QX80’s ride quality has always been superior. Independent rear suspension has been standard on recent Infiniti models, improving ride quality while maintaining a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. Its off-road ability is unaffected by this, as it is on par with that of any other body-on-frame vehicle.
The new QX80 will maintain the current model’s double wishbone rear suspension. The ride quality should improve much further after being retuned for the new QX. The vehicle’s current towing capacity should be unaffected by this modification.
The QX80 Is On Its Way!
An Infiniti with the Monograph moniker has appeared before. The QX80 Monograph concept that Infiniti showed off in 2017 is the basis for the updated production model that will go on sale in 2018. The revised grille and headlights from the concept were included in the updated production model. It even shared the new QX concept’s hidden exhaust architecture. From this, we may infer that the QX80 will look and function just like the QX monograph idea.
The arrival of the QX80 could be considerably quicker than you anticipate. The new QX80 has been spotted in testing, which could imply it’s almost ready for mass production. This new SUV could debut in late 2025, and it could be quite expensive. Current SUVs can be had for roughly $73,000, but the new one may have a slightly higher starting price. Car and Driver estimates the range to begin at $70,000 for the base model, but being a premium vehicle, we might see fully optioned versions reach $100,000.
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