Infiniti’s mid-size, three-row QX60 SUV was expected to come all-new for the 2021 model year but as the things stand now the second-generation version will hit the market for the 2022 season. Infiniti launched the QX60 in 2014 and recently presented the QX60 Monograph Concept signaling what the brand has in mind for the all-new version. The prototype version caught while testing suggests also that the production model will be heavily inspired by the concept vehicle which is a good thing. Leaked images give us also an insight into the in-cab design promising deep modernization. The 2022 Infiniti QX60 should also benefit from significant platform upgrades and new powertrain options.
The mid-size Infiniti QX60 is the brand’s rival to the premium models such as Acura MDX, Volvo XC90, Lexus RX and Buick Enclave. The current version earned high scores for the smooth and high ride quality, easy third-row access and well-equipped trims while the dated interior, tight third-row legroom and lack of sportiness were its weak spots. The new version should get attention with sleeker exterior styling and a modernized cabin. The model should also benefit from improved handling and performance. The hybrid version could also return.
2022 Infiniti QX60: Design
Judging by the spy photos the new-generation 2022 Infiniti QX60 should borrow heavily from the recently presented QX60 Monograph concept although the production version won’t apply some concept’s prominent features.
As far as the front-end styling goes, the redesigned QX60 should come with a very similar design to the grille and headlights as seen on the concept vehicle. The new grille version will have a trapezoidal shape with the mesh pattern bracketed by the narrower more modern headlights with the redesigned signature lighting. The front section of the model will also have sculpted fog lights handlers and sleek front bumper. It seems also that the production version features similar hood sculpting as the concept vehicle.
The profile of the model is more upright with a higher character line than the outgoing version. The shape of the fenders is also close to that of the Monograph concept. The door paneling is sleeker than on the current model and the production version won’t have the flush door handles like the concept.
The rear of the model seems also to have similar sculpting as the concept version including also the full-width taillights. The rear bumper looks to features a slightly toned-down design than the concept model.
Interior, Equipment:
The redesigned 2022 Infiniti QX60 should come with a deeply modernized in-cab design and with more standard equipment than the current-generation model.
Spy photos reveal the redesigned dash with the free-standing touchscreen instead of the current dash-integrated design. Bellow the wide, center screen are slim air vents and further down is an additional display with rotary knobs on each side.
The new version will also come with nicer materials and attractive trim accents. There should also be more standard equipment than in the current version including a full suite of active safety systems.
2022 Infiniti QX60: Powertrains
The all-new 2022 Infiniti QX60 will come on the upgraded platform and with reworked suspension which should translate to better handing and driver dynamics. There should also be benefits from weight reduction and improved efficiency.
When it comes to the powertrain options, it’s not clear yet what Infiniti has in mind. As the primary candidate, the model could keep the V-6 unit but it should benefit from various upgrades. The current 3.5-liter V-6 unit is good for 295 hp and torque of 270 lb-ft. Sources also suggest that a variable-compression 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine might be a solution for the new QX60. This engine makes 268 hp in the QX50. The high-spec versions could employ a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 from the QX50. The new 3.8-liter V-6 engine from the Frontier pickup truck is also mentioned as a possibility. The new-generation QX60 should also return the hybrid version but likely sometime after the 2022 model year.
2022 Infiniti QX60: Release, Price
The 2022 Infiniti QX60 should debut around the mid-2021 and go on sale later in the year. The price range should start at around $45, 000.
The current Infiniti QX60 is a solid seller for the brand with around 40,000 units sold annually. The redesigned QX60 should perform better on the market thanks to the sleeker and more attractive styling and upscale cabin.