New Infiniti QX50 – official image and details revealed

Infiniti has revealed the new QX50 ahead of its world debut at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show next week. The second-generation Infiniti QX50 promises world-first technologies, stand-out design and class-leading interior space – it will take on class incumbents BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Audi Q5.

The new QX50 is 4,693 mm long and 1,903mm wide, which makes it 37 mm longer and 13 mm wider than Merc’s mid-size SUV, the only one of the German trio we’re familiar with (the G01 X3 and second-gen Q5 aren’t here yet). The Japanese SUV, which sits on a new platform, has a 2,800 mm wheelbase, which is 73 mm shorter than the GLC’s. Boot space is huge, at 895 litres, expandable to 1,699 litres with rear seats folded.

The premium SUV will come with the world’s first production variable compression ratio engine. The 2.0 litre VC-Turbo is twenty years in the making (according to its maker) and combines the power of a sprinter and the efficiency of a long distance runner, so to speak.

Producing 272 PS and 390 Nm of torque, the VC-Turbo engine can adjust its compression ratio from 8:1 (max performance) to 14:1 (max economy), and is up to 35% more efficient than the old car’s 3.7 litre NA V6. Full explanation and video illustration of how the new engine works here.

Hooked up to a CVT automatic gearbox, the QX50 does 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) in 6.3 seconds, or 6.7 seconds for the front-wheel drive variant, with a top speed of 230 km/h. The new body is said to have 23% better torsional rigidity (which should improve handling and refinement) and is also 6% more aerodynamic.

The new QX50 will come with Nissan’s ProPILOT driver assistance technology, as seen on the latest Nissan Leaf. On the EV, ProPILOT is a single-lane autonomous driving tech that can automatically control the distance to the vehicle in front using a speed preset by the driver (between 30 and 100 km/h), while steering and keeping itself centered in its lane.

The system does braking to a complete stop too, remaining there till without the driver’s foot on the brakes. To reactivate the system, the driver just needs to touch the switch again or lightly press on the throttle.

As for the looks, the finalised QX50 design isn’t a big surprise, looking very much like a QX50 Concept that has been toned down for production. We don’t have official rear or interior shots yet, but you can visualise from the spyshots and concept. Like what you see?

GALLERY: Infiniti QX50 spyshots

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