Three-row Seating + V6 Engine, the Infiniti QX80 is Expected to be Unveiled on March 20

Infiniti's flagship SUV, the QX80, is ready for a new generation. Recently, Infiniti officially released images of the new QX80, after some spy photos of the car circulated online. However, the current images available are only the exterior of the new vehicle, and the specific details of its interior design remain unclear.

It is known that the new car is scheduled for an official unveiling on March 20 and will make its debut at the 2024 New York International Auto Show.

From some of the information revealed about the new car, the most significant change in the latest generation model is the replacement of the original 5.6L V8 naturally aspirated engine with an all-new twin-turbocharged V6 engine compared to the previous QX80. It remains to be seen what everyone thinks of this adjustment, but due to stringent emission requirements, car manufacturers are increasingly unable to accept large-displacement naturally aspirated engines. Hence, such a change was expected.

In terms of exterior design, the all-new QX80 resembles to the Infiniti QX Monograph concept car—dignified and imposing, which exuded the style of a flagship SUV. Nevertheless, like many flagship SUV models from other brands, such as the Range Rover and BMW X7, the QX80 tends towards a more boxy design. However, the QX80 is rich in details, such as its uniquely styled front grille, which is highly distinctive, and the unique design of its LED daytime running lights. From spy shots, it can be observed that the new car also features hidden door handles.

The boxy design brings an obvious benefit by ensuring a relatively sufficient rear passenger space without feeling overly confined. The body lines of the all-new QX80 are remarkably straight, yet they do not lack a sense of smoothness. The peep-proof black windows contribute to an elevated sense of luxury. The rear features the trendy full-width taillights. Despite being equipped with a V6 engine, the exhaust outlets adopt a more understated hidden design, which aligns well with a sense of solemnity revealed by the vehicle.

According to the information received, the new QX80 will upgrade its interior space, particularly the third-row space. Additionally, the interior design and materials emphasize more on displaying a sense of technology. The new vehicle will be equipped with a fully digital instrument panel and a large central touchscreen, offering features such as wireless charging, ambient lighting, wireless updates (OTA), Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It will also feature the Klipsch premium audio system with 24 speakers, titanium alloy tweeters, an 8-inch subwoofer, and a 24-channel amplifier.

As for the power system, the brand-new QX80 will be equipped with a 3.5L V6 twin-turbo engine and a 48V mild hybrid system. The engine can achieve an output power of 336kW (456PS), paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) and a four-wheel-drive system.

The starting price of the all-new QX80 is likely to be around $80,000, and it will face competition from models like the Audi Q7, BMW X7, and Lexus LX. We will continue to follow any subsequent information about the new vehicle.

(Author: Kevin Wong)