Infiniti reveals Q Inspiration Concept - a preview of their next-generation vehicles

Infiniti finally decides to share with us its Q Inspiration Concept at the recent 2018 North American International Auto Show. And whether you like the design of it or not, you better get used to it because this will be the look of next generation Infiniti vehicles.

For us, we actually find the Q Inspiration’s design quite fascinating. The grille alone is a head turner, considering the fact that it features a weird but interesting design of the company’s current double arch, filling it tightly with louvres. The air intakes on the lower fascia and the wheels give it a sporty aesthetic too. The shape of the headlights looks like cuts, which are complemented by similar lines on the hood.

Moving on to the rear, the design transitions into a sleeker look. The rear is like a fastback, and this flows from a smooth roof with thin pillars. The rounded tail is slightly understated with integrated exhausts. The rear is finished with a long strip of tail lights that stretch from one end to the other, while picking up some design cues from the sharp edged headlights.

In the cabin of the Q Inspiration Concept, one would instantly recognize a minimalist layout. There are broad white chairs in leather upholstery, and what makes it more amazing is that passengers get their own tablet for entertainment. In the center is a floating console that looks sculptural, while featuring a combination of black and white leather with a bright coral orange accent that stands out.

The cabin also features a digital display that stretches throughout the length of the dashboard, which is contrasted by a whole plank of wood that goes all the way to the doors. Lighting can be adjusted on each section of the cabin as passengers slide their fingers along the strip of washi paper and silk threads on the lower part of the doors.

Under the hood of this concept is Infiniti’s VC-Turbo four cylinder. This mill has a similar output to that of a gas fueled V6, but it comes with the efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel.

It is equipped with a compact powerplant, which is a major contributor to the sedan’s styling. Since the engine does not take up a lot of room, Infiniti’s engineers were able to give the Q Inspiration Concept a short hood, while moving the A pillars closer to the front. This is also why the concept is unusual in that it has the interior of a large vehicle, but the exterior footprint of a midsize sedan.

Before you guys become too hopeful, Infiniti has already confirmed that the Q Inspiration will remain as a concept, though it will likely serve as inspiration for future models.

PRESS RELEASE

INFINITI Q Inspiration Concept: power beyond convention

Previewing a new generation of INFINITI vehicles, the Q Inspiration Concept proposes how an innovative VC-Turbo powertrain, next-level autonomous drive technologies, and a unique human-centric interior could enrich the experience of drivers in the mid-size sedan segment. The Q Inspiration Concept is meant to demonstrate future technologies and will not be available for sale.

Representing the next step in INFINITI design, the exterior of the Q Inspiration Concept features clear and concise lines with dynamic and confident proportions. It is the first manifestation of INFINITI's new form language for an era of advanced powertrains. The concept eschews classical sedan forms with its coupe-like appearance and elongated silhouette, presenting INFINITI's design vision for vehicles in this segment.

The cabin follows a minimalist approach, with a concise and clean interior design enveloping the driver and passengers in a serene and comfortable environment. The intelligently packaged four-cylinder VC-Turbo has liberated INFINITI's designers from the constraints of powertrain architecture to realize a spacious interior. Modern technology and craftsmanship merge inside the cabin, presented in a way that enables, rather than distracts, the driver.

Powered by INFINITI's revolutionary VC-Turbo technology – the world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine – the Q Inspiration boasts a powertrain combining turbocharged gasoline power with the torque and efficiency of a hybrid or diesel engine. VC-Turbo continually transforms, adjusting its compression ratio to optimize power and fuel efficiency, resulting in the smart application of power for greater driver control. As a mid-size sedan concept, the Q Inspiration previews other near-future applications for INFINITI's variable compression ratio VC-Turbo engine technology.

New ProPILOT functionality liberates the driver from mundane and stressful driving situations. Realizing the next stage in vehicle autonomy for INFINITI, ProPILOT enables drivers to delegate more stressful driving tasks to the car, and enjoy an enhanced ability to respond to hazards. With the system acting as a co-pilot, the driver always retains ultimate control.

"The premium sedan segment has become rather conservative. The INFINITI Q Inspiration previews something that could appeal to a younger audience, who seek modern design and new technologies to inspire and empower them."
Christian Meunier, INFINITI Global Division Vice President