A Z-Powered Coupe Could Revive Infiniti's Legacy
Infiniti is considering bringing back the Q60 coupe, potentially using the platform of the Nissan Z. The design would feature a sleek look with a large blacked-out grille.
The coupe could be based on an updated version of the Q50 sedan's platform. This approach would save costs and allow for quicker development.
Infiniti had previously planned to replace the Q50 with an all-electric model, which seemed like a step towards a more modern lineup. However, this plan changed when Infiniti announced that the Q50 would return as a performance-oriented, rear-wheel-drive sedan with a combustion engine.
With the Q50 now back in production, it raises the question of whether the Q60 coupe could also make a comeback. The previous Q60, produced from 2016 to 2022, shared its platform with the Q50. If Infiniti decides to bring back the Q60, it could use the next-gen Q50 as a base.
However, "next-gen" might not be entirely accurate. Reports suggest that the new Q50S will be more of a redesigned version of the current model, similar to how Toyota has updated the Camry or Nissan has updated the Sentra.
Reusing the same platform would offer significant cost savings compared to creating a new coupe from scratch. It would also provide designers with a solid foundation to build upon, potentially speeding up the development process and maintaining brand consistency.
What Might It Look Like?
Nikita Chuyko from Kolesa has created a set of renderings imagining what a modern Q60S could look like. The previous Q60 was already a stylish car, and these illustrations show a third-generation version that keeps the sculpted silhouette with clean, flowing lines along the sides. The front and rear designs are different, though.
The front end features a large blacked-out grille that would give the car a strong presence on the road. There are also large black air intakes on either side of the bumper, along with angular headlights that span the top of the grille.
The rear of the car is also interesting. While the rear quarter panels and windows are similar to the old Q60, the LED taillights are completely new. The car has been shown with a blacked-out rear bumper and twin tailpipes, reminiscent of those found on the Nissan Z.
Powertrain Possibilities
Infiniti gave a sneak peek of the upcoming Q50S at a dealer conference in Las Vegas last year. According to early details, it is expected to use the same twin-turbocharged V6 found in the Nissan Z, delivering 400 horsepower.
This would place the Q50S in a strong position for performance. What makes it even more appealing is the possibility of a manual gearbox paired with rear-wheel drive. If these features make it into production, the Q50S could become one of the most engaging sedans on the market.
