QX80

Make
Infiniti
Segment
SUV

With the 2019 Detroit Auto Show now only a few weeks ago, automakers are starting to tease some of their new models debuting at the Motor City show. It's already been confirmed that Infiniti will preview its first-ever fully electric SUV with a new concept at the show, but it now has a name: the Infiniti QX Inspiration. Sound familiar? That's because the automaker revealed a concept sedan called the Q Inspiration exactly one year ago at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, although it wasn't electric.

Details are still scarce, but Infiniti has released a new photo of the QX Inspiration. This time it isn't hidden in shadows, allowing us to get a clear look at the SUV's striking, futuristic design. As expected, the QX Inspiration takes its cues from Infiniti's previous concepts such as the Q Inspiration Prototype 10 Speedster, adopting slim headlights, a sloping roofline, a sculpted body, and massive wheels, while the lack of grille gives the front a cleaner look than the Q Inspiration sedan.

Infiniti promises its future range of electric vehicles will have spacious, "lounge-like interiors." Inside, the QX Inspiration Concept's cabin has been hand-crafted using "traditional techniques and a choice of materials inspired by a subtle Japanese sensuality," although no photos have been released showing off the cabin. The concept will also feature a range of driver assists and connected interior technology, but no further details were released.

Likewise, we still don't know any technical details about the QX Inspiration's driving range or performance, but we'll find out more when the electric SUV is shown at the Detroit Auto Show on January 14 at 11:40 am EST.

"QX Inspiration is the beginning of a new era for Infiniti and an illustration of where we want to go with the brand, said Infiniti's Executive Design Director, Karim Habib. "New technology has given us the opportunity to evolve our design philosophy – and the new vehicle communicates the serene strength at our core."

Infiniti has big plans for electrification as nearly every model will be electrified after 2021 with a range of all-electric models and "e-power" hybrids. Infiniti's first EV will launch in 2021, so there's a good chance it will be a production version of the QX Inspiration Concept.