► First look at new Infiniti QX50
► One photo released ahead of LA
► See it in full at Los Angeles show
This is the new 2018 Infiniti QX50, the new mid-sized crossover to target the Audi Q5, Jaguar F-Pace and BMW X3. It’s being prepared for the LA auto show which starts on 28 November.
The QX50 is notable for boasting the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine, dubbed VC-Turbo. It’s a 264bhp 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, said to have the efficiency of a four-pot diesel.
It’s the car we scooped earlier this spring; check out our spyshots here.
What can we expect of the new Infiniti QX50?
Infiniti has only issued teaser information at this stage. We know it’s based on an all-new platform, said to be unusually stiff and spacious (they’re claiming class-leading accommodation and a 23% stiffer structure).
‘The QX50 is the most important vehicle we have ever launched, and it embodies everything the brand stands for: beautiful design, advanced technology and empowering performance,’ said Christian Meunier, Infiniti’s global vice president. ‘As a premium, mid-size SUV, it’s the right vehicle at the right time in one of the world’s fastest growing segments.’
Infiniti showed the 4690mm-long QX Sport Inspiration (above) at the Beijing motor show in 2016; that car showed what we can expect from the newcomer, which is expected to arrive in European showrooms in 2018 or 2019 as a rival to the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.
A world first: Infiniti’s Variable Compression Ratio engine on the QX50
Most notable new feature in the QX50 is the Nissan-Renault Alliance’s new Multi Link Variable Compression Ratio (VCR) engine tech; a multi-link system continuously lifts or lowers the pistons’ reach, effectively juggling the compression ratio between 8:1 (performance) and 14:1 (for frugal economy).
Impressively, for a 2.0-litre petrol engine developing 264bhp and 280lb ft of torque, the Infiniti VCR boasts a claimed 35% improvement in fuel economy, compared with the previous V6 gasoline engine.
This engine will only be offered with a CVT automatic transmission; the QX50’s new platform is front-wheel drive, to trim fuel economy further.
The video below shows how the Infiniti VCR tech works.
Click here for our full LA motor show preview guide