Next Infiniti QX80 Will Be an Old Man Disguised By a Fancy New Suit
The next-generation Infiniti QX80 will have a striking new style when it debuts, but unfortunately, the new design will be hiding a dated platform.
The full-size luxury SUV was previewed by the QX80 Monograph concept that debuted at this year’s New York Auto Show. The concept showed off a stunning new style that will help the QX80 shed its reputation as one of the ugliest SUVs available, but details were light on whether the QX80 would be built on a new platform.
Speaking with Motor Trend, Infiniti boss Roland Kruger confirmed that the new QX80 will have the same powertrain and architecture, meaning it will look great but still drive like an old SUV.
ALSO SEE: Infiniti QX80 Monograph Concept Looks like a Land Rover Rival
Kruger previously hinted to AutoGuide.com that a hybrid could be possible and said that Infiniti definitely needed to make the big SUV lighter and more efficient. Kruger confirmed, however, that the Infiniti QX80 will continue to be powered by a 5.6-liter V8 paired with a seven-speed transmission and have the same platform it’s had since 2011. While other full-sized SUVs like the new Lincoln Navigator with its new EcoBoost V6 and 10-speed transmission turn to lighter and more efficient platforms, Infiniti risks being left behind.
The production 2018 Infiniti QX80 is due out later this year.
[Source: Motor Trend]
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Jodi has been obsessed with cars since she was little and has been an automotive journalist for the past 12 years. She has a Bachelor of Journalism from Ryerson University in Toronto, is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and a jury member for the prestigious North American Car/Truck/Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY). Besides hosting videos, and writing news, reviews and features, Jodi is the Editor-in-Chief of AutoGuide.com and takes care of the site's day-to-day operations.
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