It’s big, bold and a rather leftfield choice compared to Detroit’s Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Yet, Infiniti still sees potential in the QX80 full-size SUV to justify the development of an all-new, 3-row successor.
Spies behind the lens have recently captured the luxo-barge covered in a thick layer of camouflage, yet with the help of some illustrative wizardry, we’ve managed to uncloak and reveal what it will look like. But what else can we expect from Japan’s reskinned next generation Nissan Patrol, which is marketed under the Armada nameplate in North America, that should follow shortly after?
Monolithic Proportions
In a move reminiscent of their previous approach, where the 2017 Monograph Concept provided a preview of the second facelift for the current model in 2018, Infiniti plans to reveal a sneak peek of their design direction for the upcoming QX80. The upcoming QX80 Monograph Concept was initially scheduled to debut in March but has been postponed until this summer.
Judging by prototypes we’ve already seen testing on the road, the third-generation QX80 sports solid proportions and an overall appearance that could have been crafted from the granite gods. The muscular design formula takes the best aspects of Infiniti’s recent offerings and injects a grand dose of finesse.
A pair of split-tier headlamps flank an imposing mesh grille, with the primary units recessed lower in the bumper and segmented DRLs sitting higher up. Tense creases define the hood, whilst a boxy glasshouse and chrome trim add to the classy aesthetic. Out back, an upright tailgate sports brightwork separating the glass and sheet metal, whilst the led taillights feature unique segmented detailing.
Spacious & Tech-laden
The cabin of the outgoing car is arguably a dated affair, showing its strong lineage with its Nissan Armada under-skin-twin. The all-new QX80 will offer improved interior space (notably in the 3rd row), classier materials, and a more alluring cabin design.
Tech goodies will include a digital instrument cluster with a large 12-inch infotainment display offering wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It will also benefit from over-the-air updates (OTA), ambient lighting, and other luxury comforts.
Drivers will have many drive modes, including dedicated settings for those heading off the beaten track. A plethora of semi-autonomous, level-2 driver assists will be standard fare in the big Infiniti’s safety cache.
Platform & Powertrain
Similar to its predecessor, the next QX80 will share the same body-on-frame architecture as the Nissan Armada, but with updates. Infiniti has focused on improving the QX80’s ride quality and handling characteristics to outdo its competition in that department, particularly the Range Rover Vogue.
There’s very little confirmed about the powertrain options at this stage, but the 5.6-litre bent-eight of old is believed to make way for a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 mated to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Power is tipped to lay in the 400 hp range and is fed to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Conjecture suggests an all-electric variant featuring a 100kWh battery pack and a driving range north of 300 miles could also be on the cards. However, this is yet to be confirmed.
Rivals and Reveal
Key competitors of the large Infiniti SUV include BMW’s X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, Audi Q7, Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade, Lexus LX and Range Rover Vogue. An official reveal is tipped to occur in late 2023 or early 2024, either as a 2024 or 2025 model-year offering.
Would you consider the big Infiniti over its higher-profile rivals? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
