In a surprising move, Infiniti is reportedly planning to challenge the Lexus RX with its upcoming QX65 crossover, according to Automotive News. This unexpected development comes as a surprise, as the RX has been an incredibly successful model for Lexus, consistently selling over 100,000 units in the U.S. each year since 2012. It is worth noting that even during the challenging years following the global recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, the RX’s sales remained strong, with only two years dipping below 90,000 units.
While Infiniti has had its fair share of struggles in the midsize crossover segment, its attempt to go head-to-head with the RX seems ambitious. The QX60, Infiniti’s best-selling model in the U.S., would typically be positioned to take on the RX, not its coupe-styled sibling. Even the Acura MDX, a strong competitor in the same segment, sells just over half the number of RXs annually, which is twice the volume of the QX60’s sales.
However, Infiniti seems determined to make a mark with the QX65, which is expected to be a rakish version of the current three-row QX60. The company aims to capture the attention of customers who are looking for a stylish and sporty alternative to the RX. While it remains to be seen whether the QX65 will resonate with consumers, a dealer who has allegedly seen the design describes it as having “an aggressive design that won’t appeal to the soccer mom.” This suggests that Infiniti is targeting a more performance-oriented and adventurous customer base.
It’s worth noting that Infiniti has made similar attempts in the past, with the QX70 (formerly known as the FX) and the QX60. Unfortunately, the QX70, which was sold from 2013 to 2017, did not perform well in the U.S. market due to factors like an aging design, limited interior space, and a lack of innovation. However, Infiniti seems determined to learn from past mistakes and give it another shot.
In addition to the QX65, other changes are expected in Infiniti’s lineup. The current generation of the QX50 and QX55 models will not receive successors when they exit production in 2026. Instead, there are rumors of a hybrid version of the Nissan Rogue joining the lineup as a new entry-level option. This move would provide customers with a more affordable hybrid crossover option while also aligning with Infiniti’s journey towards electrification.
Looking ahead, 2027 could see an Infiniti lineup consisting of a new entry-level hybrid crossover, the four-cylinder QX60 and QX65, the flagship QX80, and two battery-electric vehicles, namely the Qe crossover and sedan. This lineup reflects Infiniti’s commitment to embracing electrification and offering a diverse range of options to cater to different customer preferences.
While it remains to be seen whether Infiniti’s strategy will pay off, the company’s willingness to challenge the established players and push boundaries is commendable. Ultimately, the success of the QX65 and other upcoming models will depend on factors like design, performance, innovation, and the ability to carve out a unique position in a highly competitive market. Only time will tell if Infiniti’s ambitious approach will lead to a sales engine, but it’s clear that the company is determined to make its mark in the midsize crossover segment.