Infiniti takes on the four-door coupe segment with the Q80 Inspiration

Infiniti's first foray into the premium saloon category comes in the aggressive shape of the Q80 Inspiration - a bold concept that hints at future Infiniti design language and smart powertrain technology. The full-sized Infiniti Q80 Inspiration four-door fastback marks a conceptual charge into the four-door coupe segment.

Measuring 5,060mm in length, sitting 2,010mm wide and standing 1,340mm tall, the Q80 has luxurious sedan-esque dimensions while the driver and passengers are ushered into four individual seats via wide opening portal-style doors.

A simplified driver interface and unique Head-Up Display (HUD) project the information drivers need, concurrent with Q80 Inspiration's human-centric ethos. The driver is in command of what is projected onto the HUD via a touchpad in the centre console.

The front passenger also has a HUD for display of external information via a smartphone connected to the vehicle's telematics system. Each rear passenger has a touchscreen ahead of them to tap into their on-board entertainment package.

Attention has also been paid to creating a welcoming, uncluttered environment for driver and passengers alike thanks to the utilisation of smart, simplified and functional technology. Concentration is focused on exquisitely detailed interior, featuring romance in the shape of quilted leather seats and exquisite Alcantara, leather and metal finishes, all bathed in light from the sculptural panoramic glass roof.

The Q80 Inspiration has 550bhp from the word go from an all new, downsized, twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 and hybrid electric powertrain; capable of returning around 5.5L/100km and CO₂ emissions of around 129g/km. The new engine pioneers a family of power units that will be introduced to the Infiniti portfolio within the next two years.

Coupled to the innovative hybrid powertrain, the smart drivetrain has the ability to switch from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive on demand, or as conditions dictate.

The Q80 Inspiration also previews the company's philosophy on autonomous technology. Using cameras, lasers and sensors, the ingenious technology can be employed by the driver when needed via a button on the steering wheel. The system emits tones suggesting a course of action for the driver in heavy traffic or in highway mode. The final decision - whether to accelerate and overtake or whether to brake and fall in behind the car ahead - always rests with the driver.