- Infiniti delayed its 600-plus-hp QX80 performance SUV.
- It will not only have more power, but also handling, brakes and styling upgrades.
- This model will help launch Infiniti’s new performance sub-brand.
Update: This story has been updated with a statement from Infinity.
Infiniti has not offered a performance-branded model since the Q50 Red Sport 400 was discontinued after the 2024 model year. Previously, the Japanese luxury brand had not attempted to create a performance division since the IPL (Infiniti Performance Line), which only ran from 2010 to 2015.
Now, Infiniti is currently working on a new performance line that will rival several models including the BMW M and Mercedes-AMG. but according to automotive newsOne of the first products to wear the new name has already been delayed. Infinity issued a statement motor1Saying:
‘We are excited by the potential of the performance-based version of the QX80 and appreciate the enthusiasm for the programme. Our focus is on providing a vehicle that transcends additional horsepower, with meaningful improvements in braking, handling, design and overall performance. “As this will represent a significant step in Infiniti’s performance journey, we are taking the time to get it right and have no timing or product details to share at this time.”
The Infiniti QX80 Red Sport (final name was not confirmed) was originally scheduled to be revealed later in 2026, possibly arriving at dealerships by December. It will feature an upgraded version of the existing 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged VR35DDTT V6 engine that produces over 600 horsepower and will be paired with some sporty visual enhancements.
“As we started working on the project, we’re realizing that power alone is not enough,” Eric Ledieu, vice president of Infinity America, told the outlet.
Infiniti QX80 R-Spec Concept
Photo by: Infinity
A sportier QX80
Infiniti teased a high-performance version of the QX80 called the Track Spec Concept last year at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. The car received such a positive response, it was fast-tracked to production, but Infiniti has since realized it needed more time to get it right.
Infiniti will push back deliveries by more than a year, auto news Report. The move would be in line with a mid-cycle refresh of the QX80, scheduled for 2028. “It will take a little longer, but that little extra time will be worth the wait,” he promised.
Along with whatever updates appear on the facelifted QX80, the delay will give Infiniti time to make the Red Sport more aggressive than initially planned. The styling will be more aggressive with advanced aero, a unique cabin, active exhaust and upgrades to suspension and braking.
The Infiniti executive indicated, “It’s stronger. It won’t look like a car that’s on the road today.”
The project is being handled by the Nissan Nismo division, but it will not use the Nismo name to avoid confusion. Infiniti will get more performance models, though it’s unclear whether they’ll use the Red Sport name or an entirely new moniker.
11
Source: Infinity
Motor1’s Opinion: The Cadillac Escalade-V is currently the most impressive gas-powered full-size performance SUV with a 682-hp supercharged V8, but its handling isn’t much better than the standard Escalade. If Infiniti can take the time to make sure the QX80 gets proper visual and handling upgrades to match the power increase, it could make a stellar halo model.
