Infiniti – Nissan’s luxury-focused sub-brand – has confirmed that it will cease all operations in western Europe, including both the manufacturing and sales of cars in the region, although it has confirmed that it will remain active in Australia for now. 

In a statement to the media, an Infiniti spokesperson noted that the decision to pull out of western Europe – an area its sales were waining in, seeing just shy of a 50 per cent drop in sales between 2017 and 2018 according to Car Sales Base – was made in order to “focus the brand on its largest growth markets, specifically North America and China.”

However, it was also pointed out that the decision “will have no impact on Infiniti’s ongoing operations in eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia,” with Australia being considered part of the latter market by the brand.

However, it isn’t strictly true that there won’t be any impact to be seen elsewhere in the world, as the company’s departure from western Europe means that production of it’s most-affordable Q30 and QX30 models, pictured together above, will cease in July, pushing the cost of entry to Infiniti ownership up significantly worldwide once remaining stocks have been sold.

Produced at Nissan’s Sunderland plant in the UK, the Q30 and QX30 were based on the last-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA and just a few months ago were updated for the 2019 model year, with the range simplified and prices cut. Around 250 jobs will be directly affected as a result of production ceasing.

Locally, the Q30 and QX30 cumulatively accounted for around one quarter of Infiniti’s sales in Australia during 2018, which only amounted to 649 units being shifted across the brand’s range. The Q30 Pure signified the most affordable car Infiniti sold in Australia, with a list price of $44,990.

Looking ahead, the launch of the long-awaited QX50 couldn’t come soon enough for Infiniti’s Australian arm. Developed entirely in-house by Infiniti, it will be, as its numerical designation suggests, a larger car than the Q30/QX30.

However, the Volvo XC60 and Lexus NX rival will undoubtedly be a better car overall, with it set to sport a world-first variable compression ratio engine – a particularly innovative power plant using the company’s variable compression technology in a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine to deliver strong performance with supposedly diesel-like fuel efficiency.

But what will be Infiniti’s new cheapest SUV will be a big step up price-wise, with it expected to be getting on for the $70k mark when it lands later in 2019, although official pricing details and local specifications are yet to be announced.

This means that the Q50 rear-wheel drive sports sedan, seen above in range-topping Red Sport guise, will become the new entry point to the brand, although its cheapest variant still commands a $10,000 premium over the axed Q30 Pure.

With the rest of Infiniti’s Australian range currently being produced in Japan, although the QX50 will be built in Mexico, it means that in addition to the Q50, the Q60 sports coupe, Q70 luxury sedan, and Nissan Patrol-based QX80 off-roader – shown below – are all still safe for now.

The future of the ageing QX70 large SUV, however, is up in the air. Although some examples are still sat in dealerships and it is still displayed on Infiniti’s Australian website, production ceased in 2017 and no clear successor has been announced.

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Infiniti Australia has announced pricing and specifications for its revised 2019 Q30 and QX30 range, which sees the lineup simplified and standard equipment levels upgraded while pricing is brought down. 

On the chopping block are the entry-level GT variants and all diesel-engined variants, seeing the range reduced to just three options – the front-wheel drive Q30, which is now offered in either Pure or Sport trim, and the all-wheel drive QX30 which is available only in Sport specification.

Crucially, a rear-view camera has been added to the entry-level Q30, now making it standard range-wide – something that has been continually highlighted as a shocking omission until now – while DAB+ digital radio also joins the list of standard kit.

Aside from these new additions, standard equipment on the entry-level Pure includes a sports body kit, black mirror caps, black chrome exhaust tips, and adaptive LED headlights on the outside, while you’ll find a flat-bottomed steering wheel and Alcantara/leather upholstery on the inside.

On the safety front, lane-departure warning and traffic sign recognition are standard, although stepping up to the Sport  variants adds autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera.

Additionally, the Q30 Sport brings leather accented seats with power memory for the front row, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-speaker Bose stereo.

Furthermore, the flagship QX30 Sport brings raised suspension tuned for off-road comfort, different 19-inch wheels, comfort seats with adjustable headrests, and satin chrome finishes for the roof rails and skid plates on the outside.

Regardless of trim, all models sport a Mercedes-Benz-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 155kW and 350Nm on tap, which is backed by a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The changes to the range see the new entry-level Pure priced at the same $44,900 mark as the outgoing Sport model, while the drive-away deals on Sport variants see a reduction of around $6,000 for the Q30 and $7,000 for the QX30 over their equivalent predecessors list prices. At this stage, those drive-away deals will be valid until July 1, 2019.

The only extra-cost item across the range is metallic paint, with a $1,200 premium for all seven colours other than Black Obsidian.

Pricing

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Infiniti’s radical Project Black S prototype has been officially revealed this week.

Based on the road-going Q60 Red Sport 400 coupe, the prototype is a follow-up to the concept car first shown in 2017 at the Geneva Motor Show that now sports a Formula One derived “dual-hybrid” drivetrain.

The test-bed Q60 fuses the dual-hybrid technology with the production car’s 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine.

Where the conventional V6 engine produces 298kW, the F1 style ‘energy recovery system’ (ERS) dual-hybrid system brings an additional 122kW to lift total output to a potent 420kW.

The prototype’s powertrain employs three motor generator units (MGU). A single MGU-K unit (‘K’ stands for ‘kinetic’) harvests kinetic energy from braking, while two MGU-H units (‘H’ for ‘heat’) harvest heat energy from exhaust gases that spin up the twin turbos.

Electrical energy harvested by the three MGUs is stored in a 4.4kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located in the rear compartment.

As in a Formula One car, the power recovered by the MGUs and stored in the battery pack is deployed in two ways.

Firstly, it acts as an electrically-assisted anti-lag system, spooling up the turbine blades within both e-turbos more quickly and rapidly.

Secondly, energy stored in the battery can be used to power the MGU-K, feeding up to 120 kW of additional electric power directly into the drivetrain.

As a result, the dual-hybrid technology enables a much stronger acceleration that is instantaneous and lag-free.

In the development prototype, the extra electric power is applied to the rear axle through a newly-designed final drive assembly on the rear axle, which integrates the MGU-K.

The prototype is also the first Infiniti vehicle with full ‘by-wire’ driver controls.

Alongside drive-by-wire and gear shifts, as well as Infiniti’s steer-by-wire system, the Q60 Project Black S features a new brake-by-wire (BBW) regenerative braking system.

Optimised for track and road use, the new braking system replaces the Q60 Red Sport 400’s standard brakes (355mm front and 350mm rear ventilated iron disc brakes) with new 380mm and 360mm carbon-ceramic drilled and ventilated brakes.

A legalised feature of Formula One cars since 2014, the BBW system is said to be a better match for the Q60 Project Black S prototype’s new powertrain packaging, compared to the donor car’s standard brakes.

The adoption of the MGU-H and MGU-K units necessitates increased powertrain cooling, and the solution is the creation of wider cooling ducts in the front bumper, two outlets in the bonnet to draw heat away from the turbochargers and MGU-H units, and aerodynamics which contribute to cooling the MGU-K situated behind the rear axle.

With 420 kW – 41 per cent more than the Q60 Red Sport 400 – the prototype can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in under four seconds.

With the battery pack sufficiently charged, the MGU-K system, taking advantage of the low-down torque of the electric motor, can also provide an electrically-assisted launch control for maximum acceleration from a standstill.

On track, Infiniti says the Project Black S can provide sustained and sustainable hybrid performance, delivering “devastating” electrically-assisted acceleration, lap after lap after lap.

The Project Black S prototype stores this energy and discharges it as the driver requires, spooling up the turbochargers instantaneously as the driver opens the throttle, and boosting power sent to the rear wheels via the MGU-K over continued periods of acceleration.

The prototype offers drivers with three Formula One-inspired drive modes: ‘Road’, ‘Quali’ and ‘Race’. Each alters the way in which the powertrain gathers and discharges energy.

‘Road’ mode offers the most flexible and efficient use of electric power, for use in conventional driving conditions.

It recharges the battery on-the-go with low-level, non-invasive energy recovery, while ensuring the driver can still call upon a quick burst of acceleration to overtake another vehicle or gather speed when joining a highway.

‘Quali’ Mode offers ultimate on-track performance, deploying as much power as possible under acceleration and enabling the prototype to carry on building speed, even on longer straights.

In this mode, the prototype harvests more kinetic energy under heavy braking as the driver approaches a corner (compared to Road mode, where the increased kinetic braking effect would negatively impact the driver’s ability to drive smoothly).

Accelerating away from the turn, the battery then discharges energy to help the car gather speed quickly, even as the MGU-H continues to recover heat energy.

‘Race’ mode is designed to offer a sustained deployment of energy for use on the track.

In this mode, in contrast to ‘Quali’ mode, the prototype releases energy under acceleration where its deployment can maximise on-track performance or lap times, and saves energy elsewhere if needed.

Celebrating the partnership with the Renault Sport Formula One Team, the prototype is finished inside and out in black with yellow highlights – inspired by the famous livery of the team’s Formula One cars.

The Q60 Red Sport 400’s 20-inch aluminium alloy wheels have been replaced by new 21-inch forged aluminium wheels (275/30 R21 at the front, 295/30 R21 at the rear). Wheels are shod in high-performance Pirelli P ZERO road tyres.

To save weight. the steel bonnet, boot lid, fenders and roof of the standard car have been replaced with lighter carbon fibre panels.

The pared-back interior, still recognisably based on that of the Q60 donor car, also benefits from a ‘lightweighting’ approach, with features and functions evoking the minimalist operability of a Formula One car.

The Infiniti Project Black S will be officially unwrapped at the upcoming 2018 Paris Motor Show.

Powertrain

Prototype 3.0-litre ‘VR30’ twin-turbo dual-hybrid V6 petrol

Type Twin-turbocharged with dual-hybrid energy recovery system (ERS)

Displacement (cc): 2,997

Bore and stroke: 86.0 x 86.0 mm

Cylinder angle: 60 degree

Cylinder layout: V6

Max power (engine): 298 kW @ 6,400 rpm

Max torque (engine): 475 Nm @ 1,600-5,200 rpm

Electric Drive

ERS MGU-K (1), MGU-H (2)

Motor generator unit – kinetic (MGU-K)

Type AC permanent magnet synchronous motor

Max power: 120 kW

Motor generator unit – heat (MGU-K)

Type AC permanent magnet synchronous motor, split-turbo

Max power: 30 kW

Battery

Type Lithium-ion polymer

Energy: 4.4 kWh

Power: 120 kW

Total powertrain output

Max power: 420 kW

Max torque: TBC

Transmission

Seven-speed automatic

Drivetrain

Rear-wheel drive

Performance targets

0-to-100 kph <4.0 seconds

Top speed TBC

Suspension and damping

Front Fully-independent subframe-mounted double wishbone suspension, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, with anti-roll stabiliser bar

Rear Fully-independent subframe-mounted multi-link suspension, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, with anti-roll stabiliser bar

Steering

Type Direct Adaptive Steering, steer-by-wire, variable ratio

Brakes

Front 380 mm, carbon-ceramic, drilled and ventilated

Rear 360 mm, carbon-ceramic, drilled and ventilated

Wheels and tires

Front 275 / 30 R21, forged aluminium

Type 295 / 30 R21, forged aluminium

Weight

Curb weight 1,775 kg

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The latest version of Infiniti’s Project Black S prototype has been revealed ahead of its official debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show next week. 

Based on the Q60 Red Sport 400 coupe, the prototype you see above is a follow-up to the concept car first shown in 2017 at the Geneva Motor Show that now sports what Infiniti calls a “dual-hybrid” drivetrain that produces 420kW.

Still utilising the same 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 as the base car that produces 298kW, it’s paired to three electric motor generators to help it produce the additional 122kW.

The technology, which has been developed in conjunction with the Renault Sport F1 team and tuned “specifically for road use”, makes it possible for the car to generate electric power during acceleration and deceleration.

While one of the generators, called MGU-K, is used to generate power from regenerative braking, the particularly novel second type of generator, known as MGU-H, generates energy from the heat of the exhaust gasses that spin up the turbos, with a generator tied to each turbo bringing the total generator count to three.

Aside from the energy recovery system, the design of the carbon fibre rear spoiler has also been tweaked to give it the same profile as the wing on the Renault F1 team’s Monza car, although – with the exception of some extra yellow pinstriping – the visual tweaks seem to end there.

With only these details and just one new press photo released so far, expect more to emerge when the car is revealed in the flesh next week.

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Infiniti in Australia has made sweeping changes to the Q50 and Q60 range by reducing variants and powertrain options, simplifying model names, adding more features and dropping pricing by as much as $5,500, in response to customer feedback.

Previously comprising 10 different variants, from today the Q50 lineup has been reduced to five, but now includes a new 3.0 litre entry grade that strengthens the walk between variants.

The slow selling Q50 diesel will no longer be offered, given the market preference for petrol vehicles, and the realignment also downsizes the Q60 range from four to two.

Model names have also been simplified – in line with the new global branding identity – with the entry grade GT now called PURE, the mid-spec Sports Premium replaced with SPORT, and the hybrid option moving from HEV Sports Premium to BLUE SPORT – alongside the top of the range RED SPORT.

“Globally, Infiniti changed its grade names last year, so we’ve taken the opportunity to align with these at a local level for two of our most popular nameplates, Q50 and Q60,” said Infiniti Cars Australia managing director, Guy Street.

“With customers our main priority, by simplifying the range it will make it easier for them to understand the grade walk.

“We’ve also been able to reposition our pricing making the value equation – given the abundance of standard equipment we offer on our vehicles – very enticing for premium car buyers.”

The Infiniti Q50 range starts with the Q50 2.0T PURE, from $54,900 plus on-road costs. All PURE variants also come with a sunroof option, adding $1,900 to the price.

The 224kW 3.0 litre Turbo Q50 comes in two grades including the newly introduced PURE at $58,900 and the mid-spec SPORT at $64,900 – which is now $5,500 less than 2017 model pricing.

Infiniti’s 268kW 3.5 litre Q50 Direct Response Hybrid BLUE SPORT is now only available in rear wheel drive, with prices trimmed by $2,500, while the 298kW Q50 3.0T RED SPORT remains the range topper, albeit with a price that drops by $5,000 compared to the 2017 model.

The Japanese luxury brand no longer sells a Q50 with the 2.2-Litre diesel engine, while the Q50 2.0T is no longer available in GT Enhancement Pack or Sports Premium variants. The Q50 HEV AWD is also no longer sold.

The Infiniti Q60 coupe has also been overhauled, with the range now consisting of the Q60 2.0 litre Turbo PURE, which goes up $1,000 but now features an Around View Monitor, Adaptive Front Lighting System and a Sunroof as standard, and the 298kW Q60 3.0 RED SPORT, which now boasts newly designed, and larger, 20 inch wheels, and enjoys a $4,000 price trim.

2019 Infiniti Q50 range

The Infiniti Q50 is offered with four engine types – all in rear-wheel drive – including the 155kW 2.0 litre, two 3.0 litre options, one with 224kW and the more powerful 298kW alternative, plus a 268kW 3.5 litre V6 petrol-electric hybrid.

All grades come with Direct Adaptive Steering with customised steering control and are packed with safety.

The 360 degree Around View Monitor, Active Lane Control, LED headlights with Daytime Running Lamps, Adaptive Front-Lighting System and High Beam Assist, and Moving Object Detection are standard across the range.

The mid-spec SPORT and RED SPORT also includes Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Blind Spot Intervention and Forward Emergency Braking.

2019 Infiniti Q60 range

The Q60 is sold with two engine alternatives.

The 2.0 litre petrol engine is turbo charged to produce 155kW, and the 298kW high performance 3.0 litre V6 twin-turbo.

The range topping RED SPORT includes Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian braking system and Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection as standard equipment.

2019 Infiniti Q50 and Q60 pricing (excluding on-road costs)

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When driving the recently updated Infiniti QX80, there was only one word that came to mind – huge. That’s unsurprising though because with just one look at the thing, you’ll already know that.

But technically speaking, it really is huge as it’s larger than every single one of its rivals. Take the Lexus LX 570 we recently reviewed, for example – the QX80 is longer, wider, and taller, yet it costs a good thirty-odd less. If how much car you’re getting for the money is of concern, this thing certainly has that going for it.

The 2018 update for the QX80 is the first for the model since this lux version of the Y62 Nissan Patrol landed on Australian shores in 2015, and it’s certainly one that was overdue as the QX80 – which has been on sale in overseas markets since the start of the decade – was starting to look and feel its age.

There’s a whole host of upgrades for this revised model, both inside and out. In the sole S Premium specification available for Australia, it’s seemingly brimming with goodies – heated seats for the first two rows with ventilation for the front, heated steering wheel, electric folding for the second and third row, a second-row entertainment system with two screens and wireless headphones, a newer infotainment system, a 15-speaker Bose surround sound system, and a ‘smart rear-view mirror’.

Plush leather abounds inside, with new quilting and piping on the updated seats and door cards, while there’s also a new shift knob and ever-so-slightly less garish faux-wood highlights.

Has any of that worked? Sort of. While some features – the plush new seats and the Bose sound system, for instance – are absolutely lovely, the OTT slabs of pretend wood and the second-row entertainment screens feel not only tacky but dated.

The updated infotainment system too feels dated, while the smart rear-view mirror – which utilises an adjustable camera to provide you with a view out the rear – is a clever bit of thinking, but comes off as somewhat poorly executed due to its grainy quality and low frame rate.

There’s no denying the amount of space inside it though, as it is truly expansive with more than ample room for all passengers.

It is worth noting too that our test car did have a noticeable number of interior rattles and squeaks

On the outside, the sharpened looks do wonders for the QX80. Where the pre-facelift model looked as though it was melting, it now looks muscular and has an undeniable amount of presence, and with adaptive LED headlights, a squared-off stance, and redesigned 22-inch rims, it is brought up to the times.

Under the skin though, it’s all much the same as before. There’s still the same petrol-powered 5.6-litre atmo V8, producing a meaty 298kW and 560Nm, paired to a seven-speed automatic and a proper dual-range four-wheel drive system.

It’s largely a good thing that the drivetrain remains largely unchanged, as it’s possibly the QX80’s biggest highlight. The big bent-eight beneath the bonnet stands out most – it’s a meaty, muscular unit with plenty of low-down grunt, yet it also feels smooth and well-paired to the seven-speed self-shifter.

The four-wheel drive system is pretty clever, with auto, high, and low-range settings for the transfer case; drive modes for on sealed surfaces, rocks, sand, and snow; and a locking rear differential.

While lacking particular drive modes for the testing we put it through, the QX80 pulls itself through thick mud with ease in low-range with the rear diff locked, while its impressive ground clearance helps with negotiating big dips. The ride over loose gravel is also very impressive, although over corrugation it does feel a tad jiggly, which links to how it rides on road, which is the biggest disappointment with this thing.

Where you would hope for a plush ride that truly irons out bumps, the QX80 unfortunately feels jittery and unsettled on the tarmac, perhaps owing to its lacking air suspension – something common on its rivals.

It’s not uncomfortable by any stretch, but it does shake you around enough to become a bit tiresome after a while. Thankfully it doesn’t feel too harsh though thanks to those very plush seats.

Unsurprisingly, it’s not in any way sporty. With steering best described as feeling somewhat approximate and an expected amount of body roll that reminds you just how heavy and huge it is, it’s more at home on the open road than any backroad. It’s another shame, as its V8 power plant feels surprisingly athletic and willing to rev, and the deep burble it makes does keep you wanting to put your right foot down.

You’ll want to watch how often you’re giving it some welly though, as it does have a bit of a drinking problem. While the claimed combined rating is 14.5L/100km, the number showing up after a week with the QX80 comprising a fair amount of country driving with some city driving and off-roading thrown in was an indicated 15.8L/100km, but stay around town too long and that number will nudge, if not eclipse twenty.

Considering it only accepts top-grade 98RON fuel due to the poor quality of ours here in Australia, running one of these is no cheap undertaking. Were there a diesel option though, it might be a different story.

It also has just 10,000km service intervals – another cost to consider – as well as the fact that there are just seven showrooms and three service centres Australia-wide in only six of our states and territories. Take note, country buyers.

A puncture in one of the big 275/50 R22 Bridgestone tyres thanks to a rogue screw made me think to look up the price on those too, with that research revealing they will set you back $1104 a piece at full retail price. Ouch.

The $110,900 base price tag is another number that I found a bit hard to stomach. While it might be considerably more affordable than what is its most direct rival, the aforementioned Lexus LX 570, I can’t help but feel some other cars at around this price point – such as the Land Rover Discovery – outclass it, and have better brand value compared to Infiniti, which is still rather an unknown name here. There’s always the other question as to whether or not some more upscale trim and a few extra gizmos make this worth the premium over the Patrol, too.

Verdict

2018 Infiniti QX80 pricing and specification

Photos by Justin Cribbes. 

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The facelifted Infiniti QX80 brings extensive exterior redesign and a number of stylish interior updates priced from $110,900, a sticker that ensures that the Japanese luxury SUV remain as the least expensive in the increasingly competitive large premium SUV market.

Comprehensive exterior changes to the QX80 include an updated front end that highlights its bold proportions and gives the upper large SUV a commanding posture.

Extensively redesigned; the headlights, front bumper, grille and bonnet have been moved upwards, while the rounded curves of its predecessor have been squared off, particularly on the lower bumper, giving the QX80 a wider more angular look.

The bonnet is 20mm higher and has been extended by 90mm, the Infiniti trademark double-arch grille is taller and broader, and the wider, more angular front bumper has a muscular design that elevates its athletic stance.

The new ‘Powerful Elegance’ design language incorporates Infiniti’s front I-LED headlights – with LED “eyebrow” Daytime Running Lights – that features Light Guide Technology that evenly disperses light. The new integrated LED fog lights have two LEDs on each side, while indicators have been squared off.

With a higher centre of gravity, the side air vent, bonnet and front quarter panels have been moved so that the shoulder character line runs higher on the vehicle’s body, while the side steps have been extended out by 20mm making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle.

From behind, the tailgate, taillights, chrome bar and rear bumper have been redesigned to give a firmer, higher look. The cargo door has also been updated, better integrating with the sharper, thinner rear LED lights.

Inside, the QX80 boasts updated cabin materials using a range of contemporary leather accented features and upholstery and the premium, old-school charm of wood grain inspired finishes.

Infiniti has updated the upper instrument panel, plus the door panels, the centre and rear-centre consoles have been redesigned, as too have the rear entertainment screens.

It features a new and sporty leather accented shift knob, seat and door trim quilting, stitching and piping have been refreshed, and there is a unique contrasting coloured double-stitch design on the centre armrest. Seating and headrest design has also been updated, adding to the elegant theme emanating from the front of the vehicle, to the rear.

“This a great update for Infiniti QX80, one that we think will attract new buyers to QX80 and to the brand,” said Infiniti product manager, Edward Trinh.

“The Infiniti QX80 offers a perfect blend of power, performance, luxury and safety – all key Infiniti brand attributes.

“Whether it’s the commanding exterior design, luxurious interior, or the abundance of advanced safety technologies, the Infiniti QX80 is the ideal vehicle for active families who want a premium drive experience every time they open the door.”

With the price for the Infiniti QX80 remaining unchanged at $110,900 plus on-road costs, the Nissan Patrol-based large SUV is powered by a 5.6-litre V8 engine developing 298kW of power and 560Nm of torque. It features All-Mode 4WD system paired with a 7-Speed automatic transmission, 22 inch forged aluminium-alloy wheels – with a new 18-spoke design – and a towing capacity of 3,500kgs.

It includes Bluetooth connectivity, navigation and a long list of standard safety including Blind Spot Monitoring, Intelligent Parking System, Forward Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning to name a few.

The QX80 is available in seven contemporary shades, including the all-new Champagne Quartz, Mineral Black and Moonstone White, the interior trim is an Espresso Burl colour with semi-aniline quilted leather graphite coloured upholstery.

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Infiniti has revealed a new form language for an era of advanced powertrains with the Q Inspiration Concept. Unveiled at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) today, the Q Inspiration Concept serves to preview a new generation of Infiniti vehicles which will feature the VC-Turbo powertrain, next-level autonomous drive technologies, and a unique human-centric interior.

The concept eschews classical sedan forms with its coupe-like appearance and elongated silhouette, presenting Infiniti’s design vision for vehicles in this segment. The cabin follows a minimalist approach, with a concise and clean interior design enveloping the driver and passengers in a serene and comfortable environment.

According to the Japanese luxury marque, the intelligently-packaged four-cylinder VC-Turbo has liberated designers from the constraints of powertrain architecture to realise a spacious interior. Modern technology and craftsmanship merge inside the cabin, presented in a way that enables, rather than distracts, the driver.

Powered by Infiniti’s variable-compression-turbo technology, the Q Inspiration boasts a powertrain combining turbocharged petrol power with the torque and efficiency of a hybrid or diesel engine. VC-Turbo continually transforms, adjusting its compression ratio to optimise power and fuel efficiency.

As a mid-size sedan concept, the Q Inspiration previews other near-future applications for Infiniti’s variable compression ratio VC-Turbo engine technology.

Realising the next stage in vehicle autonomy for Infiniti, ProPILOT enables drivers to delegate more stressful driving tasks to the car, and enjoy an enhanced ability to respond to hazards. With the system acting as a ‘co-pilot’, the driver always retains ultimate control.

“The premium sedan segment has become rather conservative. The INFINITI Q Inspiration previews something that could appeal to a younger audience, who seek modern design and new technologies to inspire and empower them.” Christian Meunier, INFINITI Global Division Vice President.

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Infiniti has unveiled its new concept called the Q Inspiration ahead of its official debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The luxury sedan features a four-door coupe bodystyle but with a shorter bonnet and front axle to dash to maximise cabin space. A large glass house makes the car feel like a proper premium lounge for passengers.

The Japanese premium brand is also keeping the concept’s powertrain a secret for now, but expect to see a version of the new variable compression engine from the Infiniti QX50 or an electric powertrain.

Crucially though, the concept serves as a pointer to the design direction of Infiniti’s upcoming models, with more flowing lines and muscular stance.

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Infiniti has officially unveiled the next-generation QX50 mid-size SUV which utilises the world’s first variable compression ratio engine.

Aimed at the burgeoning premium SUV market, the new QX50 is the most important model in Infiniti’s expanding line-up, rivalling the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Lexus NX when it goes on sale in 2018.

Based on the QX50 Concept shown earlier this year, the production model looks remarkably similar to its motor show stablemate, boasting the Japanese premium marque’s usual elegant design and sculpted body.

Under the bonnet is where the QX50 breaks away from the norm with the world’s first variable compression turbo petrol engine. The breakthrough in combustion engine design allows the 2.0-litre VC-Turbo engine adjusts its compression ratio to optimise power and efficiency. It’s claimed to combine the power of a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel engine.

Infiniti says the new engine offers a compelling alternative to diesel, challenging the notion that only hybrid and diesel powertrains can deliver high torque and efficiency.

A multi-link system continuously raises or lowers the pistons’ reach to transform the compression ratio. High compression ratios aid efficiency, while low ratios enable greater power and torque. The VC-Turbo offers any compression ratio between 8:1 (for performance) and 14:1 (for efficiency), maximising driver control.

The engine delivers 268 hp (200 kW) and 280 lb ft (380 Nm), which Infiniti says is a best-in-class combination of four-cylinder power and torque. The QX50 delivers fuel economy of 27 mpg (8.7L/100km) for the front-wheel drive variant and 26 mpg (9.0L/100km) for all-wheel drive models.

Front-wheel drive models offer a 35% improvement in fuel efficiency over the previous V6 gasoline QX50 while all-wheel drive models offer a 30% improvement.

The engine is paired with a continuously-variable transmission (CVT), for seamless power delivery. Its infinite number of gears is tuned to match the engine’s ability to transform.

Moving toward fully autonomous driving, the QX50 features Infiniti’s ProPILOT Assist technologies which is able to control acceleration, braking and steering during single-lane highway driving.

The new QX50 will join the larger QX80 in Infiniti’s fast growing SUV line-up from 2018.

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