Infiniti reveals QX80 ‘Monograph’ concept

Infiniti has pimped its QX80 luxury SUV with bold looks that are still likely to divide opinion despite being a radical improvement over its aesthetically-challenged predecessor.

The QX80 Monograph Concept previews a new, sculptured design language that signals the Nissan luxury sub-brand’s intention to be a serious player in the large SUV segment.

As previously teased, the front end has had a welcome facelift with the low-set droopy headlights narrowed and raised to lead into the top of a larger ‘double arch’ grille that’s also been reshaped to match recent models such as the Q60.

Deep cheek vents in the lower corners of the front bumper are a more restrained interpretation of the QX50 Concept’s front-end design.

All pillars, except the reshaped-D, are blacked out for a floating-roof effect that emphasises the imposing brick-shaped body that is designed to make its presence felt on the open road.

While the audacious new shape is a welcome change, it remains to be seen if it will translate unaltered to production versions, with Infiniti admitting the concept “illustrates how the design of Infiniti’s QX80 could evolve”.

So, depending on how it’s received at its in-the-flesh reveal at this week’s New York Auto Show, expect some muted lines along with the addition of side mirrors by the time it rolls off the production line.

Production QX80s will share underpinnings with Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi large SUVs including the Patrol and Pajero.

Being a design concept there are no details about powertrains though there’s likely to be a choice for production models including a hybrid version.