Ottawa Citizen

Infiniti makes foray into coupe-style SUV design

- ALEX REID

Infiniti took the covers off an allnew crossover mid-November, the QX55, the first “coupe”-style SUV from a Japanese automaker.

What really makes the QX55 stand out is its roofline is sloped back much more dramatical­ly than the QX50 it's based on, making the sport utility, well, rather sporty looking.

The front fascia has also been lightly massaged, and now features a larger grille flanked by wide LED headlights. Around back are “digital piano-key” tail lights, each light feature 45 individual LEDs.

Despite the new “55” badging, the vehicle features the same engine as the QX50, a 2.0-litre turbocharg­ed four-cylinder. The engine makes the same 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque as well. Backed by a CVT, it sends power to all wheels.

The interior of the QX55 is what really impresses; a low dashboard and a tinted moonroof give an airy feeling, while active noise-cancelling and premium materials, such as aluminum and leather, further add to the luxury feel.

The QX55 also features ProPILOT Assist, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot with support for up to seven devices.

The vehicle will be fully unveiled in an online event hosted by Aloe Blacc and featuring fireside chats between Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti's global design director, and Eric Rigaux, general manager of product strategy and planning.

The Infiniti QX55 will arrive in Canada and the U.S. in spring 2021. Canada is set to see the QX55 in four exclusive trims: Luxe, Essential, ProAssist, and Sensory.

 ?? INFINITI ?? The Infiniti QX55 boasts a roofline that is sloped back more than the QX50 it's based on.
INFINITI The Infiniti QX55 boasts a roofline that is sloped back more than the QX50 it's based on.

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