Infiniti’s most luxurious SUV is going to break cover sometime next year, most likely in the first half of 2018. Yes, we are talking about the fully redesigned 2019 Infiniti QX80, but no, it won’t continue to use components from its predecessor. Instead, the carmaker plans to make it, well so-to-say softer, which mean it will be more crossover and less SUV.
The new architecture is still a big mystery, yet some reports claim that the carmaker develops the platform in cooperation with Mitsubishi. They are reportedly working on such underpinning that will be able to support a range of engines. There will be both diesel and gasoline mills, as well as some kind of hybrid or even all-electric drivetrains. In addition, the platform will be also very light due to a huge usage of aluminum and reinforced plastic, which will likely make the 2019 QX80 lighter from today’s model. Of course, this will have a great influence on crossover’s future fuel economy, so it should stop to be as thirsty as it is now.
Judging by the information we have, the next generation Infiniti QX80 will continue to use its current 5.6-liter Endurance V-8. Today’s option delivers 400hp and 413 pound-feet of torque, and we think that the carmaker won’t boost that figures at all because they did it last year. Still, it’s quite clear that the lighter body should lift SUV’s fuel economy at least at 16 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. As for the diesel option, we think it won’t happen at all, yet the hybrid model is coming without any doubt. The 2019 Infiniti QX80 hybrid might use a similar powertrain as the current Nissan Pathfinder. However, the new drivetrain will have more power without any doubt. In any case, both options will be paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Yes, there will be no rear-wheel drive at all.
We haven’t seen any testing model of the next generation QX80, so we can’t really say what will be new on the exterior. However, according to our insider, Infiniti’s full-size SUV will be very handsome and more attractive without any doubt. The manufacturer will probably add similar styling cues as it plans to do with the all-new QX50. It means it will get smoother bodywork, dynamic lines, and a massive mesh grille along with highly aggressive headlight styling. Nissan’s luxury division might also reconsider to add some kind of semi-autonomous technology. Moreover, we are pretty convinced it’s going to be available with the next QX80.
Stay tuned for updates.
