Q Inspiration Concept

The Q Inspiration Concept has a shortened hood, since it only has a four-cylinder turbocharged engine underneath, in order to devote more space to the passenger cabin. With the two front pillars pushed forward and an arcing, coupe-like roof, headroom is also enhanced.

Inside, the cabin has been given a minimalist look. It takes its inspiration from a Tokyo residential design – no surprise considering Infiniti is the luxury unit of Japan’s Nissan. Each of the four seats has its own touchscreen, showing that the concept puts a premium on connectivity.

“As a new wave of technologies begin to take shape, our Detroit concept car heralds a new generation of Infiniti,” said Infiniti’s design chief, Alfonso Albaisa.

As for the engine, the Q Inspiration didn’t need to reach for a powerplant that’s still in the future. It has the VC-Turbo, which the brand hails as a breakthrough. It has variable compression in the cylinders in order to achieve hybrid-like fuel efficiency without having to add batteries. The new engine is already coming to Infiniti’s QX50 crossover.

“This revolutionary engine offers a compelling blend of turbocharged performance and high efficiency,” said Francois Bancon, Infiniti’s vice president of product and programs.