Since the discontinuation of the previous QX70 in 2017, Infiniti is pretty much without a genuine premium crossover, considering that the rest of the lineup is nothing more than the fanciest versions of siblings from Nissan. Therefore, it’s no wonder that various reports suggest a comeback of the nameplate, which would come with a new design and more premium features. At this point, the officials are still quiet, while some sources suggest that the new model could arrive already in the next year, as the 2023 Infiniti QX70. In any case, make sure to take the following paragraphs with a reserve.
Our reliable sources suggest three possible scenarios for the revived nameplate. One would mean a comeback of the old design approach, with a longitudinally mounted engine and RWD-based drivetrain. In the second scenario, we would see a couple of variants of the three-row QX60. Finally, some sources suggest that the comeback of this nameplate would be used for a brand-new all-electric crossover.
2023 Infiniti QX70 Design
As we’ve just mentioned, one of the possibilities is to see the same design approach as in the previous generation. Enthusiasts remember that model very well, as it was characterized by a pretty impressive performance. It was based on the good-old FM platform, with a rear-wheel-drive-biased setup.
The old model was powered by a couple of pretty impressive engines. Base models feature a 3.7-liter V6, while range-topping variants were powered by a capable 5.0-liter V8. However, both engines belong to some other era of the automotive industry, so we presume that the new model would come with something more modern. This primarily refers to the well-known 3.0-liter turbo V6, which comes in two output variants, with either 300 or 400 horsepower.
However, the problem with this design approach is that it would require a lot of time and resources, so we are pretty sure that the Japanese carmaker would go for something simpler and cheaper.
QX60-Based Design
Speaking of a simpler and more affordable design approach, the first thing that comes to mind is a crossover that’s based on the QX60. The three-row mid-size SUV was redesigned recently and it’s pretty fresh to be the basis for the new 2023 Infiniti QX70. We would see the same mechanics and probably the same engine, which is a good-old 3.5-liter V6, which puts out around 295 horsepower and now comes coupled with an automatic transmission.
Besides mechanics, the two models would also share most of the aesthetics. Practically, we expect to see the same relation as in the case of the QX50 and QX55 models, where the main difference is in the rear-end design. The 2023 Infiniti QX70 would come with a sloping roof, which would provide that coupe-like layout.
The cabin design will also have a lot in common, particularly the front section, where we expect to see the same dashboard design. That would definitely be a great thing, considering that the QX60 features a pretty nice cabin, with elegant aesthetics and really nice materials. On the other hand, the key difference will be in the back part of the cabin, where the third row would be removed, due to the lack of space.
All-Electric SUV
Finally, the third scenario is probably the most likely. In that case, the company would use this nameplate for a brand-new all-electric crossover. Nissan has a long tradition of making electric cars, as the Leaf has been in production for nearly a decade, while the brand-new Ariya crossover was introduced recently. The latter could use as the basis for Infiniti’s premium all-electric SUV.
We would see a more luxurious design but probably the same drivetrain. We would expect to see a dual-motor setup, which would ensure the all-electric QX70 can hit 60 mph in less than five seconds. The max range should go around 300 miles.