Infiniti Q80 Inspiration concept teases new model

Infiniti

This is the Infiniti Q80 Inspiration, a new concept car destined to be unveiled at next week's Paris motor show and that the Japanese luxury marque claims will lead to a future production model.
In fact, Infiniti is making no bones about the fact that the Q80 represents a springboard into the four-door coupe market – currently populated by the likes of the Audi A7, BWW 6 Series Gran Coupe and Mercedes CLS – a sector in which the brand has not yet operated.

"The Q80 Inspiration four-door fastback is to be taken as clear intent to have an entry into the newly defined premium fastback segment," it says. And judging by the car's swoopy styling and generous dimensions (5.05m long, 2.02m wide), it's being pitched directly at the premium German manufacturers. We'd imagine the eye-catching 22-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels will be toned down for a production model, though.

While just the single image of the Q80 has currently been released, its raked roofline is clearly visible, and incorporates a uniquely shaped panoramic glass sunroof. This concept model does without wing mirrors or door handles, further enhancing its streamlined aesthetic.

Powertain details are currently thin on the ground, aside from the fact the car will use a "high-performance and efficient hybrid-electric powertrain", and is expected to be fitted with adaptive suspension and an interior slathered in leather, aluminium and carbon fibre. And, rather than the conventional '2+2' seat layout, the Q80's is described as a '1+1+1+1', which presumably means passengers sit behind each other, as on a roller-coaster.

All will be revealed at Paris. Keep tuned for our live blog next week for further details on the Q80 Inspiration and all the other new models on display.