Infiniti has delayed the QX80 Red Sport by more than a year to transform it into a genuine rival for Mercedes-AMG and BMW M performance SUVs.
The brand admits that simply adding horsepower is not enough to justify a six-figure price tag or win over enthusiasts.
Originally slated for a December launch with around 600 hp (447 kW), the Red Sport will now arrive alongside the QX80's mid-cycle refresh in the first half of 2028.
Infiniti Americas chief Eric Ledieu told Autonews that the company realized power alone is insufficient for a performance SUV of this size and scale.
Comprehensive Upgrades Beyond Power
The revised project includes comprehensive suspension tuning, stronger brakes, a more aggressive aerodynamic package, an active exhaust system, and a significantly reworked cabin.
Ledieu promised a redesigned front fascia, wider fender flares, and massive 24-inch wheels, saying buyers should not expect it to resemble the current QX80.
Under the hood, the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 will receive a substantial power increase.
Ledieu said the bump will be "much more" than 20 percent over the standard QX80's 450 hp, suggesting output could exceed the previously reported 600 hp.
Infiniti targets a 0-60 mph time of less than five seconds.
The delay makes sense after driving the current QX80 Sport and its close relative, the Armada NISMO.
Both have power and visual attitude but lack eagerness and composure in corners.
Adding 150 more horsepower without other improvements would have created an entertaining highway bruiser, but not a well-rounded performance SUV.
Pricing for the Red Sport is expected to land roughly $30,000 above today's QX80 Sport, which starts at $103,945 including destination, firmly in six-figure territory.
Infiniti is also considering an even wilder QX80 Track Spec, with early concepts chasing outputs near 700 hp, possibly using Nissan GT-R engineering.
However, the project has not cleared internal review.
Ledieu noted that building it would require deeper powertrain changes and a much bigger investment, and the company needs to evaluate the business proposition and lead times.
