Infiniti QX80 reveal offers first look at next Patrol

INFINITI has revealed its next-generation QX80, the better-dressed Nissan Patrol twin-under-the-skin, offering an early taste of the replacement for the now long-in-the-tooth Y62 Patrol.

The QX80 will make its public debut at the 2024 New York International Auto Show held from March 30 to April 8, where Infiniti will show the new flagship model in the metal for the first time.

Visually, the QX80 retains the boxy, upright body shape and prominent grille of the existing model, and its Patrol cousin, although it looks significantly more modern with a design that appears every bit as classy as a Land Rover Defender.

The three-row large SUV features an interior inspired by Japanese culture, in the principle of ‘miyabi’ which roughly translates to ‘elegance and refinement’. It appears the design brief has been achieved with what looks to be a luxurious leather-clad interior, wood trim, suede and a healthy amount of technology.

Infotainment and driving information is displayed on two 14.3-inch displays with a choice of three views - classic, elegant and enhanced. A separate 9.0-inch display mounted below the infotainment screen is used to adjust climate functions and drive modes.

The air-conditioning features biometric cooling, which Infiniti says helps control temperature for all occupants using an infrared sensor built into the headliner to detect when a passenger is hot and direct cool air their way.

A feature that may prove popular, if it makes its way into Nissan Patrol models, is an optional “cool box” within the centre console which directs chilled air into the compartment to keep drinks cold.

Like Toyota’s Land Cruiser 300 Series, Nissan has moved to turbocharged V6 power. However, it has outdone its Japanese rival brand by upping the ante with a new 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 336kW/698Nm.

In fact, the V6 engine shares DNA with Nissan’s GTR as part of the ‘VR’ engine range, producing power not far off that found in the all-wheel drive supercar.

Drive runs through a nine-speed automatic transmission and the Infiniti will be offered in both rear- and all-wheel drive, with high-spec’ Sensory and Autograph options only available in the latter configuration.

Although not confirmed, the powertrain is expected to carry over to the incoming Y63 Nissan Patrol and while fans of the model have long called for a return to diesel, it looks like petrol power is here to stay.

While the Y62 offered gargantuan power outputs when it was released back in 2012, the thirsty 298kW/560Nm V8 engine meant costly registration and fuel bills - difficult for many Australians to justify in the electric age.

Safety includes passive and active technology including forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian detection, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure prevention and more.

"We went all out with the all-new QX80 to deliver an extraordinary vehicle that speaks to the bright new chapter for our brand," said Infiniti senior vice president, Jose Roman.

"It's without a doubt, the most advanced product Infiniti has ever offered, and we're confident it sets a new benchmark in the full-size luxury segment."

Australia is not set to receive the Infiniti QX80 but most probably won’t mind given its lasting obsession with Nissan Patrol.