► New Infiniti SUV is shown
► A conceptual glimpse of new QX50?
► Aka the mid-sized crossover
Here’s Infiniti’s new QX Sport Inspiration concept car, paving the way for what may end up replacing the QX50 crossover.
That’s the new name for what used to be the Infiniti EX. Or, to put it another way, Nissan’s upmarket alternative to the likes of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 – the segment continues to flourish and Infiniti has identified it as ‘one of the fastest-growing premium segments.’
It was unveiled at the Infiniti Design Night held at its styling studio in China, one of four design HQs it has dotted around the globe.
Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration: the lowdown
The concept car is being shown at the 2016 Beijing motor show on 25 April 2016. This is a styling model, with no engineering details issued yet; so dwell on the new family grille, show-car-style ‘human eye’ headlamps, characteristic crescent-cut rear windowline and camera pods instead of door mirrors.
Infiniti calls it ‘an exploration of the brand’s vision for a next-generation, mid-size premium SUV’ and the Japanese are keen to point out the SUV proportions, floating A-pillars and broad-stanced wheelarches.
It’s quite tip-toe tall, boasting 230mm of ground clearance it even has a step for clambering onboard. And at 4690mm long and 1960mm wide, it’s very closely matched to the footprint of an X3. Although with its sloping roofline, this four-seater is actually closer to a coupe-crossover like the X4.
Infiniti’s design boss speaks
Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti executive design director, said: ‘The QX Sport Inspiration expresses a power and purpose that is uniquely Infiniti. With a flowing, natural aesthetic, this concept demonstrates how Infiniti can offer something new and exciting with future QX SUV models.’
Pay attention also to the cabin of the Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration: with floating seats, it’s said to allow more room for feet and legs. And the hidden recessed steps are a clever touch to boost ingress and exit.
And that black-and-white cabin colour scheme with tough saddle-stitched leather? Designed to ‘resemble the appearance of body armour.’ Perfect for popping down the local medieval re-enactment then…
