Infiniti Without Red SportIt’s been a while since Infiniti put out a model with real performance intent. The Red Sport badge once brought some spark to the lineup, but that faded after the Q50 bowed out in 2024. Lately, Infiniti’s crossovers have focused more on comfort than on getting your pulse up.That changes with the all-new Infiniti QX65. Seeing it at the New York International Auto Show, away from the polished press shots, it immediately felt different from the usual crossover crowd. There’s a sense of purpose in the way it sits and carries itself.There’s no Red Sport badge yet, but talk of a more powerful version is already picking up. After seeing the QX65 up close, it’s easy to see why. The platform feels ready for more, and a performance variant seems less like a rumor and more like the next logical move. More Presence, Less PredictabilityThe QX65 feels like it was shaped with a clearer goal in mind than recent Infiniti models. Photos make it look tidy and a bit reserved, but up close, there’s a stronger sense of attitude.The fastback shape isn’t just for show. It gives the QX65 a planted, almost rear-drive look, even though it’s not. The proportions call back to the original FX, with a long hood, a cabin set further back, and a wide, stable rear end.Up front, the grille and lighting have a layered, sculpted feel – detailed but not overdone. At the rear, the full-width light bar and a subtle spoiler pull the design together. It’s confident without trying too hard, especially with that gold-tinged Sunfire Red paint.Inside, there are still two screens, but they’re separated and easy to read, not just a single slab of glass. The cabin feels more focused on the driver than on becoming up to date with current tech trends.Materials on the higher trims lean into quiet luxury. Nothing stands out just for the sake of it, but everything feels like it was chosen for a reason. Even the audio system, with headrest speakers and personal sound zones, adds useful features instead of gimmicks.The new QX65 is not trying to be radical, but every choice feels more deliberate than you’d expect. What Can We Expect from the Red SportFor now, the QX65 uses a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder with 268 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. It does the job well, but it doesn’t stir much excitement yet.That could change soon. Reports point to a V6-powered version coming around 2027, likely with a version of Nissan’s 3.5-liter engine. With about 300 horsepower expected, the QX65 would have a much stronger performance base.That’s where a Red Sport version starts to make sense. In the past, Red Sport models weren’t just about more power – they brought sharper handling, bolder looks, and a different feel behind the wheel. If Infiniti follows that formula, the QX65 could finally live up to the promise of its design.Even better, Infiniti is said to be working on a QX80 Red Sport with serious power. If that happens, a smaller, sportier QX65 Red Sport could follow as a more attainable performance choice.Right now, the QX65 feels like it’s setting the stage. The design and proportions are in place. What’s left is for Infiniti to add the right hardware and show some intent to match the promise.
