Infiniti showcased two new concept vehicles, the QX80 Terrain Spec and QX80 Track Spec, during Monterey Car Week in California. Designed and engineered by the Australian automotive engineering firm Premcar, these concepts highlight the luxury brand’s commitment to off-road capability and performance enhancements.
The QX80 Terrain Spec features several modifications aimed at boosting its off-road prowess. According to an Infiniti USA spokesperson, the vehicle boasts an elevated ride height, off-road wheels fitted with all-terrain tyres, fender flares, and a side-exit exhaust. Additional features include a rooftop tent, limb risers, a rooftop-mounted light bar, and protective covers over the lower front and rear fascias.
Premcar’s involvement in the project was confirmed via email, although it was not mentioned in Infiniti’s initial announcement. Premcar CEO Bernie Quinn expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “The Premcar team is proud to have worked with Infiniti USA to create the QX80 Terrain Spec concept.” This partnership reflects a growing trend in automotive engineering, where specialized firms contribute to the development of high-performance vehicles.
Exploring the Capabilities of the QX80 Concepts
Both the Terrain Spec and the Track Spec concepts are designed to explore the extensive capabilities of the third-generation QX80, known as the Z63 series. While the QX80 will not be sold in Australia due to the discontinuation of Nissan’s Infiniti brand locally in 2020, it shares a platform with the upcoming Y63 Patrol, expected to launch in Australia in 2027. Quinn noted that the new Patrol will likely inspire another Premcar-developed Warrior off-road variant, promising similar capabilities to those showcased in the QX80 Terrain Spec.
Quinn elaborated on Premcar’s international expansion, highlighting its production of Patrol Warrior vehicles for the South African market. He believes that the development of the QX80 Terrain Spec exemplifies this growth strategy. “I’m expecting big growth in the Australian part of our business, but also the same growth, if not bigger, on some international projects,” he said.
The QX80 is currently available in five grades in North America: Pure, Luxe, Sensory, Autograph, and Sport. The Terrain Spec and Track Spec concepts may pave the way for future variants that enhance both off-road and on-road performance.
Performance Enhancements in the QX80 Track Spec
Finished in a satin dark basalt vinyl wrap, the QX80 Terrain Spec features substantial upgrades like raised suspension and protective body cladding, mirroring the modifications seen in the Patrol Warrior. The vehicle is equipped with new off-road technologies, including the Invisible Hood View system, which projects an image of the area beneath the vehicle onto the in-car displays, and a 3D Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection.
In contrast, the QX80 Track Spec is designed for on-road performance, featuring a matte metallic black-blue vinyl wrap and a reworked twin-turbo 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine. This engine now produces over 485 kW and 1015 Nm of torque, marking the highest horsepower output in Infiniti’s history. Upgrades to the engine include new turbochargers, exhaust systems, and a less restrictive quad-outlet exhaust, while maintaining the original internal engine structure.
The Track Spec also showcases larger Brembo brakes, 24-inch wheels, and aggressive bodywork enhancements like a unique front splitter and rear diffuser. These modifications reflect Infiniti’s strategy to address the varied preferences of luxury SUV consumers.
“High performance and off-road capability are emotional entry points into how today’s drivers experience luxury,” said Tiago Castro, Infiniti Americas vice president. He noted that the QX80 Track Spec and Terrain Spec cater to distinct customer desires, whether for thrilling performance or off-road confidence.
The unveiling of these concepts coincided with the introduction of the Infiniti QX65 Monograph concept, which aims to provide a tantalizing preview of the brand’s future vehicles. As Infiniti continues to innovate in the premium SUV market, these new concepts embody a fusion of luxury and performance, positioning the brand for growth in a competitive landscape.
