Japanese heritage and style can be found in INFINITI’s latest luxury crossover coupé.

As the luxury vehicle division of the highly successful Japanese automaker, Nissan, the INFINITI brand is certainly associated with a respectable pedigree. Having test driven both the INFINITI Q60 Sports Coupé and the INFINITI QX50 SUV in recent years, the FACT team had high expectations when handed the key to the all-new INFINITI QX 55 by the professional and friendly team at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.

EXTERIOR

As the only premium crossover coupé offered by a Japanese brand, the 2022 INFINITI QX55 is a unique creation, one that exudes performance-inspired styling from every angle. The all-new model connects the brand to its heritage with a modern interpretation of the stunning silhouette created by the INFINITI FX.

Designed to resemble a Japanese bridge, the double-arch grille was the first feature to draw our full attention. With an origamiinspired mesh pattern that widens at the edges, the influence of the Japanese culture is on full display. This beautifully designed grille is flanked by standard LED headlights; cleverly crafted to imitate the human eye.

The elegant lines of the QX55 flow effortlessly from bonnet to boot, starting at the clamshell hood, and continuing above the front wheels, across the doors and over the rear fenders. Standard 20-inch alloy wheels, combined with the fastback roofline, enhance the bold and powerful stance of this fourdoor hatchback.

At the back end, the intricate arrangement of the distinctive taillights mimics the keys of a piano, combining 45 separate LEDs in a single casing. An uncluttered liftgate highlights the use of Japanese minimalism, whilst the INFINITI logo, located on the tailgate, houses the power liftgate release.

All-in-all, we found the QX55 to exhibit an aesthetically pleasing, powerful, yet elegant exterior design; one that hints at a highperformance driving experience.

INTERIOR

Fortunate enough to be inspecting the top-class SENSORY trim model, it was only once we entered the QX55, that the premium nature of the vehicle was fully revealed. Welcomed by sculptured and ultra-comfortable front seating, complete with soft-touch panels, we had the perfect vantage point from which to appreciate the fine-detailing of the cabin.

The details of the interior have been intricately crafted, with full attention being given to every last feature. We loved the lasercut stitching used to create unconventional shapes on the seats, doors, panels and suede-topped dashboard. High-end materials are present throughout the vehicle, including fancy, dark, openpore oak wood, used for the trimmings. The low height of the rear seats ensures sufficient leg, shoulder and head room is on offer for up to three adults. The rear seating has also been designed to slide both backwards and forwards, creating an extra six inches of either leg or storage space, depending on the occupants’ needs. The luggage compartment offers a capacity of 762 litres, increased to 1,532 litres with the 60/40 rear split seating folded flat. This further adds to the practical nature of the vehicle.

A final notable internal feature of the QX55, is the three-zone fully automatic A/C with auto recirculation and ioniser. The harsh humidity was no match for this first-class climate control system.

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY

INFINITI have included a dual-display infotainment system in the new QX55. This includes an eight-inch upper, colour, high-definition screen for navigation and backup camera displays, along with a seven-inch lower, colour, high-definition screen for system settings, climate control, audio and phone. Both displays are conveniently located and showcase vibrant graphics and clear text.

This setup includes voice recognition technology and is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It allows hands-free text messaging, along with Bluetooth hands-free music streaming and calling. We found all this tech to be pretty straightforward and responsive.

Further convenience is provided through the steering-wheelmounted controls, and the remote control situated on the centre console. This provides easy access to various functions, including voice commands and the navigation map.

A 16-speaker Bose premium audio system is amongst the array of additional high-end features we uncovered.

POWER & PERFORMANCE

The QX55 boasts an award-winning, Variable Compression Turbo, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine, that produces 268hp at 5,600rpm, and 280lb-ft of torque at 4,400rpm. Power streams through the Continuously Variable Transmission and is delivered to INFINITI’s standard Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. This configuration enables the SUV to accelerate from 0-100km/h in six-and-a-half seconds, as well as to produce a top speed of around 220km/h. With a Drive Mode Selector offering four programmable settings, including Standard, Eco, Sport and Personal, we found this SUV to be both versatile and fuel-efficient.

The active noise cancellation system utilises the vehicle’s audio speakers to counterbalance any low-frequency sounds, whilst the active sound enhancement system intensifies the sporty nature of the engine. The result is a soothing yet exciting ride.

INFINITI have further added to the appeal of the QX55 by including an extensive range of safety and performance assist features designed to protect and serve at all times. These include Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Backup Collision Intervention, to name but a few.

OUR VERDICT

The all-new INFINITI QX55 is not only easy on the eyes, but delivers comfort, convenience and high performance. ✤

GO: CALL 4428 3366 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN.