2026 Infiniti QX65: Insights on the Coupe Crossover | Carscoops

      The underperforming QX55 is set to be discontinued and will be succeeded by the QX65 crossover coupe, which is anticipated to make its debut later this year.

      The QX65 will be introduced as a sportier, two-row alternative to the QX60 crossover. It is expected to showcase a sleek aesthetic featuring split headlights and a black grille. Furthermore, it will probably come equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, producing 268 hp and 286 lb-ft of torque.

      Both the Infiniti QX50 and its coupe-crossover counterpart, the QX55, are being phased out this year. While the QX50 may not have a direct replacement, Infiniti is preparing to launch a new model that will take the place of the QX55, named the QX65.

      This new crossover will have a coupe-like roofline, and recent testing (albeit camouflaged) has given us a hint of its design, with renderings now emerging to provide a preview of its potential appearance.

      The QX65 is expected to launch in late 2025 or early 2026 as a model for North America. It will provide a sportier, two-row option compared to the upcoming refreshed QX60. Likely sharing the same underpinnings with the QX60, both will be manufactured at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee facility. This is significant, as the outgoing QX50 and QX55 are produced in Mexico, making them susceptible to tariffs under proposed policies from the Trump administration.

      **Design Features**

      These renderings by artist Nikita Chuyko for Kolesa are based on the recent prototype sightings we shared a few weeks back. They depict the QX65 with split headlights nearly identical to those of the larger QX80, featuring narrow LED daytime running lights located at the base of the hood and vertically positioned main headlamps lower down on the front fascia. A large, sleek black grille is also included in these renderings, enhancing the premium appearance of the new crossover coupe.

      The QX65’s sides will feature sweeping curves and creases, highlighted by attractive triangular rear side windows. The rear design shown in these images includes a roof-mounted spoiler, intricate LED taillights, and a light bar, which we find appealing overall, hoping that the production version maintains this attractive look.

      **Interior Anticipations**

      While we haven't seen the interiors of any QX65 prototypes, we did glimpse a tester of the refreshed QX60 that was accompanying it. Given the model similarities, it’s highly probable that the QX65 will have a comparable (though slightly updated) interior, likely featuring a dual 12.3-inch arrangement: one for the digital instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system, upgraded to the latest version.

      **Turbocharged Engine**

      What else can we expect from the QX65? Similar to the updated 2026 QX60, it’s likely to come exclusively with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine yielding 268 hp and 286 lb-ft (387 Nm) of torque, as Infiniti removed the 295 hp 3.5-liter V6 engine from the lineup last year. This engine will be paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, powering either the front wheels or, optionally, all four wheels.

      **Infiniti’s Challenges Ahead**

      Nissan’s luxury division is currently facing challenges. Last year, Infiniti sold only 58,070 vehicles in the U.S., marking a 10.2% decrease from the 64,699 units sold in 2022. The QX55, in particular, contributed to this decline, with sales dropping 31.3% to just 3,721 units. While these figures are concerning, Infiniti continues to design appealing vehicles. If the QX65 meets expectations, it may help to rejuvenate the brand and increase sales.