Infiniti muscles into the Middle East with 2022 QX60

The brand's latest mid-size SUV is on the region's doorstep, and the new version comes with enlightened styling

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  The 2022 Infiniti QX60 has arrived in the Middle East. All photos: Infiniti

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  The next-generation model has been completely redesigned, the carmaker says.

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  The Japanese-influenced interior includes plush leather details.

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  Massage seats are controlled by the central screen.

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  A pair of QX60s on display at the Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition 2021.

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  Designers take inspiration from “ripples on a pond" for the leather seats and interior.

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  Doors may be required before setting off.

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  The QX60 demonstrates its kerb appeal.

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  An early design sketch.

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  The colour 'Moonbow Blue' shimmers elegantly.

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  That'll be the digital piano key tail light.

Infiniti’s 2022 QX60 will be jostling with luxury SUV rivals in the Middle East soon after the company revealed shots of the vehicle last year.

The next-generation model, which, the carmaker says, has been completely redesigned, is not dissimilar to its most recent relative, but first impressions show it differs in some subtle and appealing ways.

For a start, the new model has what Infiniti calls Japanese-influenced details. These include an origami-inspired signature mesh grille, kimono folds in “digital piano key” lighting signatures, as well as an “aesthetic of ripples on a pond interpreted in the leather-appointed seats”.

Infiniti says this is a departure, a step towards its aim of combine motoring athleticism with harmony and simplicity.

All very Zen so far.

The QX60 pairs intuitive technology and driveline dynamics with its 279-horsepower, 3.5-litre V6 engine, joined to a new nine-speed automatic transmission.

It sounds fairly meaty in a car that isn’t big as far as SUVs go, but Infiniti says the powertrain will deliver a responsive drive that’s quiet and poised, which is something we could all do with.

The car’s all-wheel drive system has been enhanced, too. Now, it almost instantly engages when it detects wheel slip for a superior driving experience. Also, up to half of the available power can be sent to the rear wheels for increased grip when you need it. All very useful should the dunes come a-calling.

It has also been fitted with zero-gravity, ergonomic seating. Tech includes a 12.3-inch interactive touchscreen for infotainment. You can also get models with a wireless charging mat, large enough to support the biggest iPhone.

The new QX60 has a new colour option Infiniti seems pleased with, and they’re calling it Moonbow Blue, which is a hue that has been designed to resemble the colours that adorn summer skies at dusk.

Anyone who fancies trying a new QX60 can book a test drive across the region from June 2022. There’s no sure word on pricing yet, but base models are being sold in the US for $47,875.

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  BMW’s fastest and most powerful EV to date, the iX M60 goes from from 0 to 100kph in 3.8 seconds, and has a top speed of 250kph.

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  The iX M60 mates a 105kWh battery pack with a pair of electric motors that drive the front and rear axles.

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