The Infiniti QX Inspiration is a concept SUV that the premium firm unveiled at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show. The QX Inspiration is part of a series of Inspiration vehicles that already includes a sedan and another SUV, and it previews an upcoming crossover that will feature an all-electric drivetrain. Unlike the QX Sport Inspiration, which was based on a production SUV, the QX Inspiration boasts a unique design that will likely trickle down into upcoming crossovers. The big news here is the all-electric drivetrain. We don't know much about it, but Infiniti promises a high-performance motor and battery combo and an intelligent AWD system. The concept also features autonomous driving technology, a new dashboard layout made of high-resolution displays, and a lounge-like cabin.

2019 Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept

Specifications
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  • Model: 2019 Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept
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Exterior

- Intriguing design - Sharp cues - Slim headlamps - Sporty bumpers - Coupe-style roof - Massive wheels - Thick cladding

The concept SUV looks intriguing to say the least, but the front fascia appears familiar compared to recent Infiniti show cars. It has a massive, closed-off grille with illuminated "Infiniti" lettering, really slim headlamps, and a sturdy bumper. Most of the styling cues, including the headlamps, the grille surround, and the bumper inlets include hard angles, but they're combined with softer, organic lines on the lower bumper and front hood.

Although most modern concepts are designed with sportiness in mind, the profile of this SUV is far from sleek. The doors are tall, just like on a production SUV, but the windows are very narrow. What’s more, the glasshouse becomes even narrower toward the rear and the roof is heavily angled. The side skirts are rounded off as they move under the car, so it looks like the SUV is floating above the ground. Thick cladding around the wheel arches and large wheels with an intricate design to the rims round off the profile. Of course, like any recent concept vehicle, it has cameras instead of side mirrors.

Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept
Infiniti

The rear end looks equally intriguing. The rear window very narrow and slanted, probably almost to the point where you can't see through it anyway. The narrow taillights are mounted high in the fascia, but the extremities descent toward the wheel arches. There's also illuminated "Infinit" lettering and a very tall bumper with a 'QX Inspiration" badge at the bottom. The typical diffuser was replaced with some sort of two-piece mesh and there are no tailpipes, because this SUV is electric.

It's not the most beautiful concept car out there, but it's an interesting take I'm willing to accept if things become more interesting under the skin.

Interior

- Lounge-style layout - Four digital displays - Cloth and leather - Retractable steering wheel - Wood trim - Bench-style rear seats - Sporty front seats - While floor covers - Marble-style center console

Before we step inside, we must take note of the suicide doors. The SUV was also designed without B-pillars, so access inside the cabin is as easy as it gets. The interior looks simple and high-tech at first glance. These are common feats for concept cars nowadays, as the auto industry is moving toward simpler and cleaner cabins with enhanced passenger space and digital controls.

The main fascia of the dashboard is made entirely of high-resolution screens. The display seems split into three main sections, with two larger screens in front of the driver, and a slimmer, but wider unit in front of the passenger seat. A fourth display that looks like a tablet is mounted on the center console. The unconventional steering wheel that looks like a game controller includes a display as well. All these screens are flanked by grey cloth and brown leather, highlights by white and gold accents.

The center console has an interesting design with black and white structures woven under a thick layer of transparent lacquer for a marble-like finish. The console extends to the rear seats. The traditional cloth headliner was replaced by wood, which can be seen on the lower door panels as well. Combined with the grey cloth and the gold trim that extends from the upper dashboard, the wood gives the cabin a lounge-like ambiance. The flat floor also enhances the inviting atmosphere thanks to the large, white suede panels cut in romboid shapes and fitted with gold inlays.

The individual seats up front have grey seating areas and brown armrests. The rear bench is wrapped in the same upholstery, but it's shaped to look like a fancy couch rather than a car bench. It sure looks comfortable and legroom seems generous.

Tech-wise, the QX Inspiration is loaded with all sorts of goodies, starting with rotating front seats for easier ingress and egress and customizable screens that control everything from the infotainment and lighting system to heating and ventilation.

Infiniti mentions a range of driving assist technology but doesn't give too many details. However, it's safe to assume that this concept is fully autonomous given that the steering wheel and the pedals retract into the dashboard and floor, respectively.

Drivetrain

- Fully electric - Two motors - High-capacity battery - Still a concept - No output figures - AWD system

Infiniti says the QX Inspiration features a "high-performance electrified all-wheel-drive powertrain," but doesn't give actual details. That's because the drivetrain itself doesn't exist yet. It's more of a work in progress, a project for future Infiniti electric cars.

The QX Inspiration previews the company's first electric SUV, built on an all-new platform that "could accommodate a powerful electric all-wheel drive (e-AWD) system." It will combine a high-capacity battery pack and "a pair of electric motors," one on each axle. There's no word as to how much power it will deliver, but a premium SUV needs at least 300 horsepower. A total system output of 400 horses would be ideal in this segment.

Infiniti also promises an intelligent e-AWD system, "blistering" off-the-line acceleration, and a lower center of gravity due to the battery's location under the floor. Look for the 0 to 60 mph sprint to be achieved in under five seconds, while top speed should surpass the 130 mph mark.

Final Thoughts

The QX Inspiration is obviously the type of concept we won't see in production anytime soon. I wouldn't want that anyway. It simply looks to wierd and somewhat ugly to become an appealing production model. Consider it a preview of things to come in the technology and drivetrain departments. The latter is the main highlight here, as it will kickstart a series of electrified haulers that will probably include the entire QX family.

Love it

- Previews next-generation electric platform

- Lounge-style interior

- Packed with technology from the future

Leave it

- Ugly

- Not much is known about the drivetrain

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2018 Infiniti QX50.