Sizzling off the reveal of the QX65 Monograph Idea at Monterey {Car} Week 2025, Infiniti simply pulled the wraps off two extra idea automobiles, each based mostly on the QX80 SUV. The Infiniti QX80 Observe Spec and Terrain Spec Ideas envision two completely different sides of the luxurious model’s flagship three-row SUV. The Observe Spec goes far past the just lately revealed Sport trim for 2026, whereas the Terrain Spec hints at an off-road trim for Infiniti, one thing the corporate has by no means supplied earlier than.
Infiniti has not supplied a performance-branded mannequin because the Q60 IPL Coupe (previously the G37 IPL) in 2015, although the Q50 and Q60 did supply Purple Sport variations that produced 400 horsepower, however did not have sufficient dealing with upgrades. Nissan has branched out with off-road trims reminiscent of Rock Creek and Professional-4X, however these monikers have by no means been used on an Infiniti product. We may see Infiniti doing one thing to focus on Lexus with its F Sport and Overtrail trims.
“We wished to unleash the complete expressive energy of Infiniti design with these QX80 ideas. QX80 Observe Spec and QX80 Terrain Spec had been impressed by the various landscapes surrounding our Southern California design studio – the place canyon roads take a look at efficiency and mountain trails invite journey. These automobiles discover two distinct expressions of energy and magnificence, each unmistakably Infiniti in how they push the boundaries of what is lovely, succesful and daring.”
– David Woodhouse, vp, Nissan Design America.
The Most Highly effective Infiniti Ever
Automakers usually do not reveal energy outputs on idea automobiles, however Infiniti is not being shy right here. The QX80 Observe Spec options the identical 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 discovered within the manufacturing automobile, but it surely’s been given a brand new turbo system and exhaust, rising output by round 50%. It now delivers over 650 horsepower and over 750 lb-ft of torque on inventory internals going out to a nine-speed computerized transmission. That is greater than a GT-R Nismo and probably the most ever produced by an Infiniti. No 0-60 mph is quoted, however we wager this could give the Cadillac Escalade-V a run for its cash.
Enlarged Brembo brakes assist deliver it to a cease, however we doubt this could be a automobile you’d wish to lap repeatedly at a monitor. Visually, the QX80 options the identical grille because the Sport trim, however Infiniti added quad exhausts, a rear diffuser, a black/blue vinyl wrap, 24-inch wheels, and fender flares.
The First Off-Street Infiniti
The QX80 Terrain Spec contrasts the absurdity of the Observe Spec with an concept that makes a lot sense: an off-road SUV. Infiniti would not point out an influence improve right here, so the Terrain Spec doubtless retains the QX80’s inventory 450 hp and 516 lb-ft score, which is loads for off-roading. This idea options an elevated journey peak, all-terrain tires, and fender flares, in addition to limb risers, a lightbar on the roof, and a pop-up tent. Infiniti even added a side-exit exhaust for a little bit of G-Wagon-inspired flare.
Most of the QX80’s manufacturing options carry over right here, together with the Invisible Hood View, which makes use of picture processing to venture what’s beneath the automobile onto the display, making it simpler to keep away from rocks and obstacles. These ideas are actually extra excessive than something we have seen from Infiniti in a very long time, and we hope the corporate takes them critically and places these concepts into manufacturing.
“Excessive efficiency and off-road functionality are emotional entry factors into how right this moment’s drivers expertise luxurious,” mentioned Tiago Castro, vp, Infiniti Americas. “QX80 Observe Spec and Terrain Spec replicate two distinct shopper mindsets – those that crave thrilling on-road efficiency and people who search assured functionality far past the pavement. These ideas embody Infiniti’s new, fast-to-market mindset – one that enables us to discover what resonates most with purchasers whereas accelerating our push into the premium SUV area.”