Detroit Live: Infiniti Q Inspiration Concept

The Infiniti Q Inspiration Concept signals a new design direction for the brand.

Infiniti has officially lifted the veil on its Q Inspiration Concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Infiniti says the Q Inspiration Concept previews the company's future design language.

More than just a future face for the brand, the Q Inspiration Concept also ushers in a new era of technology for Infiniti. Chief among those new tech items is the next-generation of Infiniti's ProPILOT, which the automaker says "liberates the driver from mundane and stressful driving situations.” Infiniti isn't completely cutting the driver out of the equation, however, as the system can be overridden at any time.

Power for the Q Inspiration Concept is provided by Infiniti's new Variable Compression — or VC for short — turbo four. Performance figures weren't given for the Q Inspiration Concept, but the 2.0L units makes 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque under the hood of the QX50 crossover.

The Q Inspiration Concept features four-doors, but has the sleek lines of a coupe. The overall design of the concept is even more flowing that Infiniti's current Q60 coupe. Rear-hinged rear doors give excellent access to the Q Inspiration Concept's futuristic interior. However, Infiniti cautions that the Q Inspiration Concept is simply a show car and will not enter regular production.

"The premium sedan segment has become rather conservative. The Infiniti Q Inspiration previews something that could appeal to a younger audience, who seek modern design and new technologies to inspire and empower them.” Christian Meunier, Infiniti Global Division Vice President.

Although the Q Inspiration Concept isn't destined for production, look for its styling and tech to influence the next-generation Q70 sedan or perhaps even a spiritual successor the Q45 flagship sedan.