Infiniti has introduced a new coupe-crossover for the 2027 model year named the QX65. This model revives the spirit of the legendary FX and is essentially a two-row version of the QX60. The car is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower.
Heir to Iconic Design
The Infiniti FX design is considered a true icon, even though the model appeared almost 25 years ago, long before the “coupe-crossover” concept became popular. After the FX was discontinued in 2019, the luxury brand attempted to replicate its success first with the QX55 model, which did not gain widespread recognition. Now Infiniti is making a new attempt with the larger and bolder QX65.
Exterior and Design of the New Model
The QX65, built on the platform of the three-row QX60, showcases the signature Artistry in Motion design. The model features a unique front end with a bold grille, split lighting units, and digital daytime running lights in the shape of piano keys. The logo on the grille is illuminated, which is part of an animated welcome sequence for the driver.
A sloping roofline gives the car a dynamic look, while it sacrifices only 15 mm of headroom for second-row passengers. Other exterior features include a full-width LED light bar at the rear, an angled rear window, and a small spoiler. The model is offered in Luxe, Sport, and Autograph trims, each with its own design distinctions, such as a mesh-pattern grille on the Sport or a black roof on the Autograph.
Interior and Comfort
The QX65’s interior is virtually identical to that of the QX60, but the model is a strict five-seater without a third row of seats. This, along with the roofline shape, reduces cargo volume compared to its more practical sibling.
Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a multimedia system of the same size with integrated Google services. The base trim also includes heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof. Higher trims add seat ventilation and massage functions, an upgraded Klipsch audio system, a head-up display, and even a personal audio function for the driver.
Technical Specifications and Engine
The heart of the QX65 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 268 hp and 387 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned for a sportier acceleration feel. Unlike the QX60, the QX65 is offered exclusively with all-wheel drive and can tow up to 2,722 kg.
Engineers have also installed an active noise cancellation and sound enhancement system designed to eliminate unwanted noises and emphasize the sporty exhaust sound. Rumors suggest that a 3.5-liter V6 engine with around 300 hp may join the lineup later, and the appearance of a high-performance Red Sport version is also possible.
Driver Assistance Systems and Release Date
The QX65 is equipped with a full suite of driver assistance systems, including ProPILOT Assist and adaptive cruise control. The top Autograph trim offers an updated ProPILOT Assist 2.1 system, which allows for semi-autonomous hands-free highway driving.
Production of the 2027 Infiniti QX65 will begin in Smyrna, Tennessee, with sales starting in early summer. The model’s starting price is $53,990.
The introduction of the QX65 signals Infiniti’s serious intent to return to the segment of emotional crossovers, once dominated by the FX. Focusing on design, quality materials, and technology, unlike the previous unsuccessful attempt with the QX55, may resonate with buyers looking for an alternative to German competitors. The success of this model will depend not only on its appearance but also on how successfully the engineers managed to convey that same “sportiness” and driving thrill that made the original FX beloved.