by Infiniti is preparing to launch the flagship high-performance version of its QX80 SUV significantly earlier than expected. The company has confirmed that its competitor to the Cadillac Escalade-V will appear by the end of this year.
From Concept to Reality
Last year, the company presented two impressive concepts for a powerful QX80, hinting at its intentions to create the most powerful SUV in its history. The first one, named the QX80 Track Spec, was equipped with an upgraded 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8, producing over 650 hp and 750 lb-ft (1016 Nm) of torque.
Infiniti Is Preparing a 600 HP QX80, But That Might Only Be A Warm Up
Just a few months later, Infiniti showed an even more radical QX80 R-Spec concept. This version received a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 from the GT-R, tuned to over 1000 hp. However, it is the Track Spec model, not this extreme variant, that will go into series production for customers.
Technical Expectations
Nissan’s Senior Vice President, Chief Product & Planning Officer, Ponz Pandikuthira, stated that the twin-turbo V6 is already in the base model, but its performance will be increased to over 600 horsepower, and this version will appear this calendar year.
As previously known, this version of the QX80 may revive the legendary Red Sport name. If the production model inherits the concept’s characteristics, it will receive updated turbochargers and a new exhaust system, significantly increasing power compared to the standard 450 hp and 516 lb-ft (699 Nm) of torque.
Not Just the Engine
Infiniti will likely offer many of the exterior elements from the Track Spec concept on the production model. That concept had a distinctive front spoiler, widened wheel arches, and new side sills. The rear was adorned with a quad exhaust and a special diffuser. The concept also received 24-inch wheels and Brembo brakes. With over 600 hp, the company will have to ensure that the production version’s braking system is up to the task.
Availability and Prospects
However, getting this new QX80 might not be easy. According to recent reports, Infiniti plans to sell only about 600 units annually in the USA, distributing them among dealers based on their current sales of the regular QX80. Thus, this SUV will be not only powerful but also quite rare.
The accelerated launch of such a model indicates Infiniti’s desire to compete more actively in the premium high-performance SUV segment, which is currently experiencing a real boom. A limited run of 600 cars per year could be a smart move to maintain the model’s exclusivity and value, as well as to test the market before a possible expansion of the lineup. The success of this version could set the tone for the brand’s future products, demonstrating that it is capable of creating not only comfortable but also emotional cars.
