Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration Concept SUV Bows in Beijing

CARS.COM — Infiniti calls its QX Sport Inspiration concept, now making its debut at the 2016 Beijing Motor Show in China, a “statement of intent” on the future of the luxury brand’s midsize SUV. While its outward appearance is certainly striking, this is not one of those sci-fi, car-of-the-future concepts. It likely presages an actual model to come, or at least a distinct design direction.

The Inspiration gets inspiration from Infiniti’s existing SUV lineup; it wears the QX60’s sweeping body contours and sturdy appearance as well as the large-wheeled sportiness of the QX70. The SUV’s powerful presence starts with the fierce gaze of its pointed “human eye” headlamps, which flank the double-arch grille with a large Infiniti emblem in the center.

The Inspiration’s muscular, elongated profile bolsters its formidable look. Swoopy lines, dramatic curves and deep cuts span the profile, while high-arching wheel wells over giant fan-blade wheels contrast with the narrow greenhouse for an even chunkier overall effect. Infiniti describes the SUV’s blade-shaped taillights, which taper toward the center of the hatchback panel, as “echoing the organic forms apparent elsewhere on the exterior.”

The concept is 181-inches long and 64.9-inches tall. The automaker said it boasts a ground clearance of 9.1 inches for off-road capability.

Infiniti says the cabin follows the “driver-centric, passenger-minded” philosophy of Nissan’s luxury division. The interior is characterized by a black-and-white color scheme with flourishes of the leather upholstery’s natural tan; the black is meant to resemble body armor to contrast with the soft, gentle feel of the white. Four seats are intended to give each occupant a personal space, though a fifth seat is available if needed in the center of the rear bench.

So how much of the Inspiration’s inspiration will be realized in production? The automaker pointed to its recent track record.

“Infiniti has launched a number of new models recently which adhere closely to the form and philosophy of concept models – notably the Q30, the QX30 and the Q60,” the automaker said in a statement. “All share a suite of signature design cues that help ensure each is immediately recognizable as Infiniti.”