What Makes the Infiniti QX65 Monograph Stand Out from Other Crossover Coupes?
Take one look at the Infiniti QX65 Monograph and you’ll see it’s not just another crossover coupe trying to blend in. Infiniti’s designers have gone all-in on drama and elegance, channeling the spirit of the original FX that turned heads back in 2003. The QX65 Monograph, unveiled at Monterey Car Week, is a bold statement—wide grille with bamboo-inspired accents, illuminated emblem, and those slender digital piano key lights that give the front end a real sense of occasion.
But it’s not just about the face. The side profile is all flowing curves and a rakish windscreen, topped by a contrasting black roof and two-tone 22-inch wheels. There’s even a bronze spear tracing the dynamic roofline, visually separating the roof from the body. The Twilight paint, shifting between red and gold hues, is a showstopper in itself—like catching the sky right as day slips into night.
At the rear, Infiniti’s designers went for broke: an angular window, a spoiler, and a three-dimensional light bar with vertical extensions that nod to jet aircraft tailfins. The result? Pure magic. Infiniti’s head of design, Alfonso Albaisa, calls it “sculpted with an underlying sense of speed and elegance.” Hard to argue with that.
Why Is Infiniti Returning to the Crossover Coupe Segment After Past Struggles?
Infiniti’s history with crossover coupes is a bit of a rollercoaster. The FX was a pioneer, but its successor, the QX70, eventually faded away and was discontinued in 2017. Infiniti tried to recapture the magic with the QX55, but the market just didn’t bite—sales barely cracked 4,000 units last year.
So why try again? Simple: the market has shifted, and buyers are craving style and personality in their crossovers. The QX65 Monograph isn’t just a rehash of old ideas—it’s a fresh, design-driven approach that leans into what made the FX a hit in the first place. Infiniti is betting that a bolder, more distinctive design will resonate with buyers who want something different from the sea of lookalike SUVs.
What Can We Expect from the Production Version of the QX65?
Here’s the million-dollar question: will the production QX65 stay true to the Monograph concept’s striking looks? Based on recent spy shots and industry chatter, it’s looking promising. Infiniti seems committed to keeping the fastback silhouette, bold lighting, and dramatic proportions intact. That’s a relief for anyone tired of watered-down concepts that lose their edge on the road.
Mechanically, the QX65 will likely share its underpinnings with the QX60, meaning a turbocharged 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder engine pushing out 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque. Expect a nine-speed automatic and available all-wheel drive, which should deliver a blend of performance and efficiency that fits the premium crossover coupe vibe.
How Does the QX65 Fit into Infiniti’s Broader Strategy?
Infiniti’s lineup has needed a jolt of excitement, and the QX65 might be just the ticket. The brand is clearly aiming to recapture its reputation for daring design and sporty dynamics, which has felt a bit muted in recent years. The QX65’s two-row layout positions it as a more athletic, style-focused alternative to the three-row QX60, targeting buyers who want luxury without the bulk.
This move also aligns with broader trends in the luxury SUV market. According to data from J.D. Power and S&P Global Mobility, coupe-style crossovers have seen steady growth over the past five years, especially among younger, urban buyers. Infiniti’s willingness to take risks with the QX65 could help it stand out in a crowded field dominated by German rivals.
What Sets the QX65’s Design Apart from Competitors?
Let’s be honest: most crossover coupes end up looking like slightly squashed versions of their SUV siblings. The QX65 Monograph breaks that mold. The attention to detail—like the bamboo-inspired grille, the bronze roof spear, and the jet-inspired rear light bar—shows a level of artistry that’s rare in this segment.
Infiniti’s use of color and materials also deserves a shoutout. The Twilight paint isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a genuine attempt to evoke emotion and make the car feel special, even before you step inside. And those 22-inch wheels? They’re not just for show—they signal that this is a crossover with real performance aspirations.
When Will the QX65 Hit the Road, and What Should Buyers Watch For?
Infiniti hasn’t set an exact date, but all signs point to a production reveal within the next few months. If the final version stays true to the Monograph concept, expect it to be a serious contender for anyone shopping in the luxury crossover coupe space.
Potential buyers should keep an eye on how much of the concept’s flair makes it to production—especially the lighting, wheel options, and interior appointments. Also, watch for pricing and tech features, as these will be key to competing with established rivals from BMW, Mercedes, and Audi.
The big takeaway? The Infiniti QX65 isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re a longtime Infiniti fan or just looking for something that stands out in a crowded market, the QX65 Monograph proves that bold design and thoughtful engineering still have the power to turn heads—and maybe even change the game.