From 2002 to 2013, Infiniti carved out a distinct niche in the luxury SUV segment with its FX crossover, a vehicle that redefined the mid-size luxury SUV landscape. This legacy continued until 2017 under the QX70 moniker. Now, Infiniti is once again embracing the coupe crossover design, unveiling the QX65 Monograph. While presented as a concept, the Monograph designation strongly suggests a clear path to production, showcasing a design that promises to captivate from every angle. This new offering is set to challenge formidable competitors like the Genesis GV80 and Lexus RX, signaling Infiniti's intent to reclaim its position as a leader in this evolving market. anticipation has been building since the QX65 was first hinted at during the Tokyo Auto Show in 2023, and with this definitive design, enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the real vehicle in the near future.
While a textual description might suggest a conventional approach, the QX65 Monograph’s design elements coalesce to create a truly distinctive presence. At the front, a seamless LED light bar connects the daytime running light clusters, with the main headlamps discreetly positioned below, nestled between the DRLs and the lower side intakes. A prominent front grille proudly displays an illuminated Infiniti emblem, flanked by assertive black wheel arch moldings that hint at the vehicle's dynamic capabilities. The coupe-like roofline flows elegantly towards the rear, where a spoiler is seamlessly integrated into the tailgate. A bold brand wordmark and a full-width taillight design stretch across the vehicle’s rear, harmonizing with a large diffuser that blends into the wheel arches and dark rocker panels.
Although many luxury SUVs incorporate similar design components, the QX65 Monograph distinguishes itself through meticulous execution. The innovative lighting graphics, striking 22-inch turbine-inspired wheels, and subtle bronze accents tracing the window frames and grille contribute to its unique character. This distinctiveness is further enhanced by the vehicle's new color-shifting, satin Twilight paint, a reddish-purple hue inspired by the Akane paint seen on the QX80 Monograph concept, adding an extra layer of individuality and sophistication.
Currently, Infiniti has refrained from disclosing interior details or specific powertrain configurations for the production version of the QX65 Monograph. The concept's sleek front end, devoid of large air intakes, and the absence of visible tailpipes, might suggest an all-electric propulsion system. However, Infiniti's naming convention, where models ending in '5' often indicate a coupe variant of an existing nameplate, points towards a connection with the QX60. The QX60 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission offering both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. Observations from spy shots of QX65 prototypes, featuring a visible rev counter in the digital display, suggest that the production model will indeed be powered by an internal combustion engine. A hybrid powertrain, potentially leveraging a Nissan platform, also appears to be a logical development. While precise details remain under wraps, considering the Monograph’s near-production design, Infiniti is expected to release more information by the end of the year, with a full market launch anticipated in 2026, or possibly sooner. This timeline aligns with the rapid transition of the QX80 Monograph, unveiled in August 2023, to its production reveal in March 2024.