All-new Infiniti QX55 Expands the Brand's SUV Offering

In a move to regain some market shares in the competitive world of luxury SUVs, Infiniti is introducing the all-new QX55 as a sportier, coupe-like variant of the QX50.

The two models will coexist in the same way as the BMW X3/X4 and Mercedes-Benz GLC/GLC Coupe, one of them clearly favouring form over function.

While the front end of the QX55 is pretty similar to that of the QX50, the rear profile is a much different story. And it’s not just the roofline; the LED taillights have a unique shape, as well.

According to Infiniti, the inspiration for this new vehicle came from the recent QX60 Monograph concept. This is evidenced by the large, intricately styled grille and aggressive design of the lower front fascia.

Photo: Infiniti

Familiar Engine

Under the hood of the Infiniti QX55 is the same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that powers the QX50. Output is rated at 268 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Variable compression technology means the engine’s compression ratio can vary from 8:1 to 14:1 depending on driving conditions for maximum performance or efficiency.

Power is handled by a continuously variable transmission along with a part-time all-wheel drive system as standard equipment. The latter transfers up to 50 percent of available torque to the rear axle when the front wheels start to lose grip. Otherwise, the QX55 operates in FWD-only mode to improve fuel economy.

Photo: Infiniti

Safety is covered by advanced features such as automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection and blind spot monitoring. Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist technology is available, combining various driver assistance features that enable semi-autonomous driving. Active noise control makes for a quieter ride. On the other hand, the exhaust note is amplified through the speakers when you activate one of the sportier drive modes.  

Less Utility

Like any coupe-like SUV, the Infiniti QX55 offers less cargo room than the conventional SUV it’s based on. Trunk capacity is rated at 761 litres versus 895 litres in the QX50. The difference is not insignificant. On a positive note, the rear seats slide fore and aft for extra versatility.

Photo: Infiniti

Up front, the layout mimics the one in the QX50 with a combination of seven- and eight-inch displays. There’s a 4G LTE hotspot allowing occupants to connect up to seven mobile devices simultaneously (and yet there are just five seats?). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is included, the former through a wireless connection.

Luxury and Essential Pro-Assist models boast aluminum inserts, while the top-line Sensory model replaces those with black maple trim.

The new Infiniti QX55 will go on sale across Canada in the spring of 2021. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Photo: Infiniti
Share on Facebook

More on the subject

NewsInfiniti QX60 Monograph Shows the Brand’s Future Design Language
The Infiniti QX60 is one of the oldest vehicles in the entire industry. Its last major revision actually came before the model was renamed from JX35 to QX60. Some people still view this midsize SUV as nothing more than a luxurious version of the Nissan Pathfinder , but things are …
Test Drives2020 Infiniti QX50: Unable to Rise to the Challenge
Infiniti launched the second generation of its QX50 compact luxury SUV for 2019. As a direct rival of the BMW X3 , Mercedes-Benz GLC , Audi Q5 , Lexus NX and Acura RDX , this model was supposed to help the company’s bottom line in a big way. The reality …
NewsInfiniti Adds Next-Gen Infotainment, More Changes for 2020
Infiniti, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month, is looking to write a new chapter focused on electrification. Before that, however, consumers will find a next-generation Infiniti InTouch infotainment system in select 2020 models. The list includes the Q50 sedan and Q60 coupe ( the midsize Q70 is not …
NewsMontreal’s Karim Habib is Leaving Infiniti After Two Years
The shuffling at Nissan / Infiniti continues. Following former president Christian Meunier’s decision to join FCA in May, we’ve now learned that the luxury brand’s global head of design, Montreal’s own Karim Habib, is leaving after just two years. The press release by Infiniti says that Habib intends to “pursue …
New Models2022 Infiniti QX60 to Debut With Same V6 Engine, New Gearbox
We’ve recently seen the completely redesigned 2022 Nissan Pathfinder , but when will its luxurious cousin, the Infiniti QX60 , get a similar treatment? The official debut of the all-new 2022 model is scheduled for late spring or early summer (the exact date has yet to be determined), with sales …
News2022 Infiniti QX55 Goes on Sale in April; Pricing is Announced
Unveiled last November after a long wait of more than a year, the all-new 2022 Infiniti QX55 will arrive at Canadian dealerships in April. We can already tell you about equipment details and prices, which put this coupe-like SUV above the existing QX50 . Available in three trim levels including …
DealersWill Shared Dealerships With Nissan Save Infiniti?
Infiniti is freefalling since a peak of 12,581 vehicles sold in Canada three years ago. Last year, due to the pandemic, sales took a major plunge to 5,783 units. A rebound of 41.5 percent during the first half of 2021 is positive news, but Infiniti’s share of the luxury car …
News2022 Infiniti QX80’s New Touchscreen Reflects Its Lofty Status
The Infiniti QX80 is a pretty rare sight on the road, but the update it’s getting for the 2022 model year deserves a bit of spotlight. This full-size luxury SUV, by the way, continues to share many features and components with the Nissan Armada . Because everyone loves big displays, …