The Latest Infiniti Concept is the FX Replacement You've Been Anticipating | Carscoops

      The QX65 Monograph pays tribute to the past while looking towards the future.

      6 hours ago

      

      by Michael Gauthier

      

      Infiniti has introduced the new QX65 Monograph concept at Monterey Car Week, which offers a glimpse of an upcoming production model and captures the essence of the FX.

      This upcoming crossover is expected to feature a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine generating 268 hp.

      Infiniti played a significant role in initiating the crossover coupe trend with the launch of the FX in 2003. While the model was highly successful, its popularity gradually diminished, leading to the QX70's discontinuation in 2017.

      The company tried to recapture past success with the QX55, but consumer response was tepid, resulting in poor sales of just 3,721 units last year.

      More: Infiniti’s Flagship SUV Goes Darker As It Crosses Into Six-Figure Territory

      Despite this setback, Infiniti remains resilient and has revealed the new QX65 Monograph, a concept that hints at an upcoming production model.

      Inspired by the FX, the concept exudes a level of style and drama that has been lacking in Infiniti’s lineup. Its front features a wide grille adorned with angular accents inspired by bamboo forests, complemented by a strong design highlighted by an illuminated emblem and slim digital piano key lights.

      The headlights are positioned lower, stacked above vertical air intakes. Additionally, the model has a sporty front bumper with prominent air intakes.

      Moving to the sides, the design showcases an elegant Artistry in Motion aesthetic with smooth curves and flowing surfaces, alongside a sloped windscreen, a gently descending roofline, and a greenhouse reminiscent of the FX.

      On closer inspection, a contrasting black roof pairs with glossy black cladding, and this black motif continues with the sporty 22-inch wheels featuring a two-tone finish.

      A subtle bronze ‘spear’ adds distinction to the dynamic roofline, visually separating the roof from the body. The overall look is enhanced by an eye-catching Twilight paint that mimics the red and gold shades of twilight transitioning into night.

      The striking design extends to the rear, where an angular window is complemented by a spoiler. The concept also features a bold liftgate and a three-dimensional light bar with vertical extensions inspired by jet aircraft tailfins. Additionally, the crossover has a sporty bumper accentuated with diffuser-like elements.

      The concept appears to be a significant success, with Infiniti's design director Alfonso Albaisa stating, “It’s sculpted with an underlying sense of speed and elegance, blended with very muscular and strong proportions – all headlined by the expectation-defying fastback roof silhouette.”

      The Production Model Will Arrive Soon

      The key question remains how much of this concept will be reflected in the upcoming production model. We will learn more in the “coming months,” but previous spy images suggest that major changes should not be anticipated.

      This is promising for the QX65, which will essentially be a two-row variant of the QX60. The two models are likely to share considerable similarities, such as the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 286 lb-ft (387 Nm) of torque. It is expected to pair with a nine-speed automatic transmission and may offer an all-wheel-drive option.