Over the weekend, the automotive world was abuzz with the unveiling of two Infiniti QX80 concept vehicles in the United States, one of which bears the distinctive touch of Australian engineering prowess. The QX80 Terrain Spec, a rugged variant designed for off-road adventures, was revealed at The Quail motorsport exhibition during Monterey Car Week in California. This vehicle was crafted by Premcar, an Australian engineering company renowned for its work on the Warrior versions of the Nissan Navara ute and Patrol large SUV.
While Infiniti’s official press release did not initially highlight Premcar’s involvement, confirmation came via email correspondence. An Infiniti USA spokesperson stated,
“Infiniti worked with Premcar to create the QX80 Terrain Spec concept, which features an elevated ride height, off-road wheels with all-terrain tyres, fender flares, and a side-exit exhaust.”
The vehicle also boasts a rooftop tent, limb risers, a rooftop-mounted lightbar, and durable protective covers over the lower front and rear fascias.
Premcar’s Expanding Influence
The collaboration with Infiniti marks another milestone for Premcar, which has been expanding its footprint beyond Australian shores. Premcar CEO Bernie Quinn expressed pride in the project, stating,
“The Premcar team is proud to have worked with Infiniti USA to create the QX80 Terrain Spec concept.”
Quinn has been vocal about the company’s international ambitions, highlighting its recent ventures in the South African market with the production of Patrol Warrior vehicles.
In a recent interview, Quinn elaborated on the company’s growth strategy, saying,
“I think the biggest opportunity that has taken my time of late is the expansion of the Warrior brand and the expansion of Premcar into other markets outside Australia.”
He anticipates significant growth both domestically and internationally, driven by projects like the QX80 Terrain Spec.
The QX80 Terrain Spec: A Closer Look
The QX80 Terrain Spec is a testament to Premcar’s engineering capabilities, featuring enhancements such as raised suspension, all-terrain wheels, and a side-exit exhaust. The vehicle’s exterior is finished in a satin dark basalt vinyl wrap, complemented by protective body cladding, including beefier fender flares and additional protective covers over the lower front and rear fascias.
These modifications are designed to enhance the vehicle’s off-road capabilities, which are further supported by advanced technologies like the Invisible Hood View and the 3D Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection. These systems provide drivers with a comprehensive view of their surroundings, enhancing safety and maneuverability in challenging terrains.
Track Spec: Performance Meets Luxury
Alongside the Terrain Spec, Infiniti also unveiled the QX80 Track Spec, a concept focused on high performance. This model features a reworked twin-turbo 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine, delivering over 485kW and 1015Nm of torque, marking the highest horsepower output in Infiniti’s history. The upgrades include new turbocharger and exhaust systems, a higher-capacity intercooler, and a less restrictive quad-outlet exhaust.
The Track Spec is equipped with larger Brembo brakes, 24-inch wheels, and aggressive bodywork that includes a unique front splitter, rear diffuser, and more. Infiniti Americas vice president Tiago Castro commented on the dual concepts, stating,
“High performance and off-road capability are emotional entry points into how today’s drivers experience luxury.”
He emphasized that these concepts reflect Infiniti’s agile approach to exploring client preferences while advancing in the premium SUV market.
Future Implications and Market Strategy
The unveiling of the QX80 concepts at Monterey is part of Infiniti’s broader strategy to rejuvenate its product lineup. The brand also introduced the Infiniti QX65 Monograph concept, signaling a commitment to innovation and market expansion. For Premcar, the collaboration with Infiniti is not just about engineering a vehicle but also about showcasing Australian expertise on a global stage.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, collaborations like these highlight the importance of cross-border partnerships in driving innovation. The QX80 Terrain Spec and Track Spec concepts serve as a preview of what consumers might expect in the future, blending luxury with performance and off-road capability.
Looking ahead, the release of the new Y63 Patrol in Australia in 2027 is expected to further cement Premcar’s reputation as a leader in off-road vehicle engineering. The company is poised to leverage its expertise to develop the next generation of Warrior vehicles, promising enhanced capabilities and a continuation of its successful international expansion.
