Infiniti is returning to the segment it created. The 2027 QX65, unveiled at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, is a fastback two-row SUV that traces its lineage directly to the original FX35, the vehicle that essentially invented the coupe-crossover category in 2003. More than two decades later, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche have all moved into that space. Infiniti abandoned it. Now the brand wants back in, and it’s arriving as the segment’s price leader at $55,535 including destination.
Key Takeaways
- Three trims: Luxe ($55,535), Sport ($57,235), Autograph ($64,135), all prices including $1,545 destination
- VC-Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 268 hp and 286 lb-ft with variable compression ratio (8:1 to 14:1)
- Standard intelligent AWD and 9-speed automatic across all trims
- 6,000-lb towing capacity when properly equipped, strongest in the coupe-SUV class
- Sunfire Red launch color uses real gold-coated glass flakes in a tri-coat process adapted from the Nissan GT-R
- Klipsch Reference Premiere audio available with 1,200 watts and 20 speakers, including headrest-mounted individual audio
- On sale early summer 2026, built at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant
The FX Returns, Mostly in Spirit
Infiniti’s marketing leans heavily on FX nostalgia, and the visual connection is genuine. The QX65’s sweeping fastback roofline, muscular fenders, and wide stance recall the original FX’s proportions. Digital piano-key LED headlights and an illuminated Infiniti grille logo update the face. An optional contrast black roof sharpens the profile further, offered on seven of nine exterior colors.
The mechanical connection is thinner. The original FX sat on a rear-drive-based platform shared with the 350Z. The QX65 shares its architecture with the three-row QX60, a front-drive-based layout. The 2003 FX35 made 280 hp from its 3.5-liter V6. The 2009 FX50 packed a 5.0-liter V8 making 390 hp. The 2027 QX65 arrives with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 268 hp. That is 12 fewer horsepower than the truck it’s supposed to honor, in a body that weighs roughly 600 pounds more.
The comparison is design-forward, not performance-forward. Buyers expecting an FX50 successor will need to wait. Infiniti hasn’t confirmed a V6, though when asked directly, the company offered a careful non-denial: “Client expectations continue to guide future powertrain offerings.”
2027 Infiniti QX65 Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L VC-Turbo four-cylinder (variable compression 8:1 to 14:1) |
| Power | 268 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 286 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters |
| Drivetrain | Intelligent AWD (standard) |
| Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs (when properly equipped) |
| Cargo (behind 2nd row) | 35.8 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 67.7 cu ft |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 inches |
| Length | 198.9 inches |
| Curb Weight | ~4,663 lbs (Luxe) |
| Seating | 5 passengers (two rows) |
| Drive Modes | Standard, Sport, Eco, Tow, Snow, Off-Road |
| Fuel Economy | EPA certification pending |
The Paint Job Worth Talking About
The launch color is Sunfire Red, and it deserves its own section. Infiniti developed a tri-coat process containing tiny flakes of real gold-coated glass suspended in a transparent mid-coat. The technique draws from the Regal Red finish previously reserved for the Nissan GT-R, adapted from a four-coat process into three coats that can run on a high-volume production line.
The gold is transported to the Smyrna, Tennessee plant in armored trucks. Application happens in a hyper-sterile environment monitored by AI to prevent contamination. The result, according to Infiniti Head of Design Taisuke Nakamura, is “a very emotional red with a hint of gold sparkles.” He added: “Having genuine gold in the paint adds a unique richness and helps provide the powerful presence QX65 deserves.”
Whether it rivals Mazda‘s Soul Red Crystal under natural light remains to be seen. That the paint process exists at all on a vehicle starting under $56,000 is notable.
Interior and Technology
The cabin shares its dashboard architecture with the QX60, which means dual 12.3-inch displays and a clean layout. Google built-in provides Maps, Play Store app downloads, and Assistant voice commands. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with four USB-C ports and Qi2 wireless charging.
Material differentiation climbs with trim level. The Autograph wraps its seats in semi-aniline leather with what Infiniti describes as kimono-inspired diagonal quilting, an asymmetric pattern that avoids the diamond-stitch uniformity common in luxury interiors. Open-pore wood accents, massaging front seats, heated rear seats, and 64-color ambient lighting themed by Japanese seasons complete the top trim.
Audio is where the QX65 gets genuinely interesting. The base Luxe carries 11 speakers. The Sport steps up to a 16-speaker Klipsch Premium system with 600 watts and an 8-inch subwoofer. The Autograph bundles the full 20-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere system at 1,200 watts, with Individual Audio technology that routes navigation prompts and phone calls through headrest-mounted speakers. The driver can take a call while passengers continue listening to music through the main system.
ProPILOT Assist 2.1, available on the Autograph via a Technology Package, enables hands-off highway driving on compatible roads.
Competitive Positioning: Value Play in a Premium Segment
The QX65’s pricing undercuts every established coupe-SUV competitor. The BMW X4 xDrive30i starts around $54,000 before options push it well past the QX65’s price. The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe opens above $55,000. The Porsche Macan starts near $60,000. The BMW X6 crosses $74,000.
The closest match on price and positioning is the Genesis GV80 Coupe, which starts around $57,000 but offers 300 hp from its 2.5-liter turbo four or 375 hp from an available twin-turbo V6. Genesis also carries a five-year, 60,000-mile basic warranty against Infiniti’s four-year, 60,000-mile coverage.
The QX65 counters with standard AWD across all trims, 6,000 pounds of towing capacity (unusual for the class), and the Klipsch audio partnership. The towing figure alone separates it from competitors that typically max out around 3,500 to 4,000 pounds.
Pricing by Trim
| Trim | MSRP | With Destination |
|---|---|---|
| Luxe | $53,990 | $55,535 |
| Sport | $55,690 | $57,235 |
| Autograph | $62,590 | $64,135 |
Destination is $1,545 across all trims. The QX65 goes on sale at U.S. Infiniti retailers in early summer 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the 2027 Infiniti QX65 cost?
The QX65 starts at $53,990 MSRP for the Luxe trim, or $55,535 including the $1,545 destination charge. The Sport costs $57,235 and the Autograph $64,135, both with destination. All trims include intelligent AWD as standard equipment.
Is the Infiniti QX65 the successor to the FX?
Infiniti positions the QX65 as the spiritual successor to the FX35/FX45/FX50, and the fastback design clearly references that lineage. However, the QX65 uses a front-drive-based platform shared with the QX60, while the original FX was rear-drive-based. The QX65’s 268 hp four-cylinder also makes less power than the 2003 FX35’s 280 hp V6.
What engine does the 2027 QX65 have?
A 2.0-liter VC-Turbo (Variable Compression Turbo) four-cylinder producing 268 hp and 286 lb-ft of torque. The engine dynamically adjusts its compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1 depending on whether the driver demands performance or efficiency. A twin-turbo V6 variant has been rumored but not confirmed.
How much can the Infiniti QX65 tow?
The QX65 tows up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is significantly more than most coupe-style SUVs. A dedicated Tow drive mode is included. This figure exceeds the BMW X4, Mercedes GLC Coupe, and Genesis GV80 Coupe.
What is the Sunfire Red paint on the QX65?
Sunfire Red is a tri-coat paint using real gold-coated glass flakes suspended in a transparent mid-coat. The process was adapted from the Nissan GT-R’s four-coat Regal Red finish. Gold for the paint arrives at the Smyrna, Tennessee plant in armored trucks, and application occurs in a sterile environment monitored by AI.
What audio system does the QX65 offer?
Three levels of audio are available. The Luxe has 11 speakers, the Sport gets a 16-speaker Klipsch Premium system with 600 watts, and the Autograph offers a 20-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere system with 1,200 watts. The Autograph also includes Individual Audio headrest speakers that can route calls to the driver while passengers listen to music.
When does the 2027 Infiniti QX65 go on sale?
Early summer 2026 at U.S. Infiniti retailers. The QX65 is built at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant alongside the QX60.
How does the QX65 compare to the BMW X4 and Genesis GV80 Coupe?
The QX65 undercuts both on base price and includes standard AWD. It tows more than either competitor at 6,000 pounds. However, the Genesis GV80 Coupe offers more power (300 hp minimum) and a longer warranty. The BMW X4 offers a rear-drive-biased platform with sharper handling. The QX65 counters with the Klipsch audio system and the strongest towing capacity in the class.
Sources and Additional Reading
- Infiniti Newsroom: 2027 QX65 Press Release
- Infiniti Newsroom: Sunfire Red Paint Details
- Edmunds: 2027 Infiniti QX65 First Look
Article Last Updated: April 12, 2026.
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Michael Kahn is the publisher of The Weekly Driver, serving as writer, photographer, and content creator. With a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for adventure, he specializes in uncovering the stories and experiences of automobile enthusiasts. Michael’s work is inspired by his love for off-the-beaten-path road trips, global exploration, and the pursuit of exceptional culinary experiences, all captured through the lens of a world traveler and automotive enthusiast.