Infiniti QX60 Monograph - Previewing the Future

With auto shows borked until next year – assuming that’s even possible – automakers need to show off concepts one way or another.

So it is that yet another livestream reveal took place tonight – this one showing the Infiniti QX60 Monograph. Which isn’t a production vehicle so much as it is an expression of what Infiniti wants to do going forward, in terms of design.

In this case, the brand wants to take the QX60 three-row crossover even further upscale.

“We commenced the design of the Monograph knowing this was an opportune time to start a discussion about where we are planning to take the QX60 in the future and more broadly, where we are heading as a brand with our design language” said Alfonso Albaisa, senior vice president, Global Design, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., in a statement.

Infiniti says the Monograph is more than a “design study” or concept. Translation: The company has already decided this is the design they’re going to use, but it’s not quite production-ready, so here’s a preview. Expect the Monograph to look similar, if not exactly the same, as what you see here, when it’s unveiled in 2021.

“In crafting this Monograph, we wanted to change the tonality of the QX60 and transform the nameplate from a sculptural and architectural point of view. We raised the visual center of gravity, giving it a strong, straight shoulder line that carries through to the hood, with a higher, more prominent grille, and longer-looking cabin to deliver a sense of muscularity and a commanding presence” Albaisa said in the statement.

The stance will be wider, and the QX will be more aerodynamic, compared to the current model. There’s a gloss-black rear spoiler, and large wheels. A black roof is meant to provide contrast to the body color, and the design is meant to give occupants a feeling of openness.

Infiniti claims Japanese origami inspired the pattern of the grille mesh, and that the panoramic roof was inspired by a “kimono fold” pattern.

The QX60 uses “piano key” lighting front and rear, and the Infiniti logo lights up. Tinted tail lamps have a wrap-around look.

Infiniti isn’t just previewing a new crossover, but a new way of doing things. Tonight’s unveiling included an augmented reality aspect. Viewers could use AR to see what a QX60 would look like in their driveway.

The Monograph will be shown at the 2020 Beijing Motor Show this weekend.

At least some auto shows are happening, it seems.

[Images: Infiniti]