The Infiniti QX55 was supposed to have already been seen by the public, but COVID-19 derailed the company’s plans for a reveal at the New York International Auto Show. Today they’re releasing the first official image of the new SUV and confirming that the model will be a 2022 model year vehicle as opposed to its original 2021 date.
AutomotiveMap has already seen the vehicle in full as part of an event last year.
In the image, just the backside of the crossover’s body is shown. Even there, design lines inspired by the FX model that has long since been retired by the brand are evident.
Last year, the company teased the QX55 with a rendered image of its profile.
Photo courtesy of Infiniti Motors
The model’s coupe-like rear stands out as being on trend with designs of modern European SUVs with wing-like taillights reminiscent of the Q60 sports coupe flanking the rear door. Atop the rear windshield is a black design element, possibly showcasing that a two-tone paint scheme will be offered.
The picture also reveals that the model will have a rear windshield wiper, wheels, tires, and cladding (phew).
When AutomotiveMap first saw the model last year, Mike Colleran, then Vice Chairman and Global Division Vice President, Marketing and Sales Operations for Infiniti Motor Company, was quick to point out that the model has FX model bloodlines but isn’t a direct FX successor.
Though it’s not shown in the new photo, when the full vehicle is revealed, its lineage will be instantly apparent to brand enthusiasts that will see where a bulging hood and sleek lines that make the QX55 look as much like a throwback as it does a fast forward. Its face is commanding, but not as upright as what is seen on Infiniti’s larger SUVs, including the 2020 Infiniti QX80 and the redesigned 2021 Infiniti QX60. It has its own unique grille that hasn’t been seen on any other Infiniti yet.
Beyond its looks, Infiniti confirms that the QX55 will feature “innovative technologies designed to empower, engage, and connect luxury customers to the road ahead”.
The automaker, a luxury arm of Nissan, will reveal the model to the public via social media on November 11 at 5:55 p.m. PST. The crossover will arrive on U.S. shores in the spring of 2021 and then be available in other regions across the globe.
