While previous prototypes of the second-generation
Infiniti QX50 were wrapped with what can only be described as “garbage bags” to
mask the vehicle’s design, the latest ones captured by our spy photographers
are a welcomed improvement.
Not only do we get a better look at the vehicle’s
exterior, we are also provided with a glimpse inside the upcoming SUV’s cabin.
The new QX50 was previewed by the QX50 Concept, which made its debut at the
2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Starting from the outside, the production QX50
appears to mimic the concept pretty closely, with minor alterations to the
Infiniti grille, sleek headlights and side intakes. Elsewhere, the lower apron
has been changed and no longer appears “buck tooth” like on the concept, but
the sculpted hood is as prominent as before.
At the rear, Q60-esque taillights continues to be
partly visible, linked by an “arch” exactly like on the concept. Beside the
liftgate, we see what appears to be the SUV’s reflectors/rear fog lamps, and
below them are larger exhaust outlets as well (both different from the
concept).
Like the exterior, the QX50’s cabin a radical
departure from that in the current QX50, and appears to be a carbon copy of the
concept in terms of layout. Of course, the transition from concept to
production requires a few tweaks here and there, the first of which involves
adding some cupholders just in front of the gear selector.
Infiniti has hinted that its new variable
compression ratio 2.0L VC-Turbo engine may make its way into the QX50 when it
goes on sale sometime in 2018, although we’ll have to wait for the carmaker to
reveal the car in full for more details. Other technologies that are said to
feature include autonomous driving systems, likely adopted from Nissan’s
ProPILOT.
Cr : Paultan