• The INFINITI QX Inspiration signals the future of INFINITI design and vision for high-performance electrified vehicles
  • Concept led by Canadian Karim Habib, Executive Design Director, INFINITI Motor Company, Ltd.

TORONTO, Feb. 14, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The new INFINITI QX inspiration mid-sized SUV Concept made its national debut at the 2019 Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) in Toronto today. This new concept indicates a new era for INFINITI design, enabled by new technology.

“The INFINITI QX Inspiration signals the future of INFINITI design for our imminent, electrified portfolio,” said Adam Paterson, Managing Director, INFINITI Canada. “It previews a product that will offer high performance, ultra-low emissions and range confidence. We are excited to showcase the INFINITI QX Inspiration Concept for the first time in Canada, where INFINITI’s head of design, Karim Habib, calls home.”

The  INFINITI QX Inspiration  is a midsize SUV concept previewing the brand's first fully electric vehicle. As a company with technological and powertrain innovation at its core, electrification is a natural next step for INFINITI. This design study previews the brand's plan to launch a range of high-performance electrified vehicles that promise an engaging drive, and delivers range confidence. The INFINITI lineup of the future will consist of a range of electric, e-POWER and performance hybrid vehicles.

The QX Inspiration concept has a form language hinting at the potency and character of electrified powertrains. The new concept sets a direct precedent for the company's first fully electric production car, illustrating how new architectures and technologies are influencing modern INFINITI design.

The interior of QX Inspiration is hand-crafted using traditional Japanese techniques. The development of new electrified vehicle platforms enables the creation of spacious, lounge-like interiors influenced by omotenashi, the Japanese approach to hospitality. The cabin incorporates technologies to create a welcoming environment while assisting drivers and connecting occupants to the world around them.

The QX Inspiration was awarded with "Best Concept Vehicle", "Best Interior" and “Innovative Use of Color, Graphics or Materials” by the prominent collection of automotive designers known as  EyesOn Design . The team led by Karim Habib received these awards at the 2019 North America International Auto Show (NAIAS), where the QX Inspiration made its global debut.

EyesOn Design is comprised of more than 30 active and retired design heads of automotive manufacturers and transportation design chairs from top art schools.

Regional debut for Q50 I-LINE and Q60 I-LINE – exclusive to Canada

Toronto auto show attendees will be able to see new special edition models of the Q50 sedan and Q60 coupe. Named “I-LINE,” which stands for “Inspired Line,” these special editions are a Canadian initiative that will be available to INFINITI Canada retailers starting next month.

Both I-LINE models are based on the Red Sport versions of Q50 and Q60, offering INFINITI's 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine delivering 400 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 350 lb-ft maximum torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm. I-LINE Editions will offer:

  • Blacked out INFINITI Sport Grille
  • 19" custom imported glossy black finish 19-inch (Q50) and 20-inch (Q60) wheels
  • Carbon fibre rear deck lid spoiler
  • Unique I-LINE Badge

"We are delighted to showcase the I-LINE editions that will be further developed into a sub-brand," concluded Paterson. "We are building on the  Q50 and Q60's award-winning engine  and engineering excellence, to add even more eminent style."

For more media information, please visit INFINITInews.com .  

About INFINITI INFINITI Motor Company Ltd. is headquartered in Hong Kong with representations in 50 markets around the world. The INFINITI brand was launched in 1989. Its range of premium automobiles is currently built in manufacturing facilities in Japan, the United States, United Kingdom and China. INFINITI design studios are located in Atsugi-Shi near Yokohama, London, San Diego and Beijing. INFINITI is in the middle of a major product offensive. The brand has been widely acclaimed for its daring design and innovative driver-assistance technologies. From the 2016 season, INFINITI is a technical partner of the Renault Sport Formula One team, contributing its expertise in hybrid performance.

More information about INFINITI and its industry leading technologies can be found at INFINITI.ca .

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Media contacts:

Didier Marsaud Director, Corporate Communications INFINITI Motor Company - Canada Telephone: 905-629-6400 Email: didier.marsaud@infiniticanada.com

Jenn McCarthy Manager, Product Communications INFINITI Motor Company - Canada Telephone: 905-629-6350 Email: jennifer.mccarthy@infiniticanada.com  

Roxane Barry Planner, Product Communications INFINITI Motor Company - Canada Telephone: 905-629-6461 Email: roxane.barry@infiniticanada.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

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