by Michael Gauthier
- Infiniti has teased the QX80 R-spec, ahead of its debut at SEMA.
- The model appears to be a lowered, high-performance luxury SUV.
- It follows the 650+ hp QX80 Track Spec that debuted this summer.
Infiniti has been exploring ways to expand the QX80 lineup and they’ll do so once again at the SEMA Show. At next month’s event, they’ll introduce a hardcore concept known as the QX80 R-spec.
The company isn’t saying much at this point, but the model will be unveiled on October 27 and promises to be a “bold blend of muscle and elegance.” Infiniti also hinted at significantly more power as they teased “the legend lives under the hood.”
More: Infiniti’s New QX80 Concept Looks Ready To Pick A Fight With An Escalade-V
That’s not much to go on, but the automaker released a couple of teaser images. The first shows R-spec badging, which echoes the styling of the GT-R T-spec emblem, while the second reveals the model will be lowered and have a rear bumper with cutouts for a four-tailpipe exhaust system.
Given the badging and Nissan’s hint about a “legend” beneath the hood, it’s tempting to imagine the GT-R’s twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 finding its way into this massive SUV, but for now, that’s wishful thinking.
We can expect to learn more next week, but the model follows hot on the heels of the QX80 Track Spec concept. It previewed a potential Cadillac Escalade-V competitor as the SUV had an upgraded twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 developing over 650 hp (485 kW / 659 PS) and 750 lb-ft (1,016 Nm) of torque. That’s an increase of more than 200 hp (149 kW / 203 PS) and 234 lb-ft (317 Nm).
Besides powertrain updates, the concept was equipped with an aggressive body kit featuring a front splitter, extended side skirts, and pronounced fender flares.
Designers also gave the luxury SUV a four-tailpipe exhaust system, a rear diffuser, and 24-inch wheels that were backed up by a Brembo braking system.
