DIVA Drives

As the luxury vehicle division of the highly successful Japanese automaker, Nissan, the INFINITI brand is certainly associated with a respectable pedigree. Having test driven both the INFINITI Q60 Sports Coupé, and the INFINITI QX50 SUV in recent years, the OHLALA team had high expectations when handed the key to the all-new INFINITI QX 55 by the professional and friendly team at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.

As the only premium crossover coupé offered by a Japanese brand, the 2022 INFINITI QX55 is a unique creation, one that exudes performanceinspired styling from every angle. The all-new INFINITI QX55 SUV connects the brand to its heritage with a modern interpretation of the stunning silhouette created by the INFINITI FX.

Designed to resemble a Japanese bridge, the double-arch grille was the first feature to draw our full attention. With an origami-inspired mesh pattern that widens at the edges, the influence of the Japanese culture is on full display. This beautifully designed grille is flanked by standard LED headlights; cleverly crafted to imitate the human eye.

The elegant lines of the QX55 flow effortlessly from bonnet to boot, starting at the clamshell hood, and continuing above the front wheels, across the doors and over the rear fenders. Standard 20-inch alloy wheels, combined with the fastback roofline, enhance the bold and powerful stance of this four-door hatchback.

At the back end, the intricate arrangement of the distinctive taillights mimics the keys of a piano, combining 45 separate LEDs in a single casing. An uncluttered liftgate highlights the use of Japanese minimalism, whilst the INFINITI logo, located on the tailgate, houses the power liftgate release.

All-in-all, we found the QX55 to exhibit an aesthetically pleasing, powerful, yet elegant exterior design; one that hints at a high-performance driving experience.

Fortunate enough to be inspecting the top-class SENSORY trim model, it was only once we entered the QX55, that the premium nature of the vehicle was fully revealed. Welcomed by sculptured and ultracomfortable front seating, complete with soft-touch panels, we had the perfect vantage point from which to appreciate the fine-detailing of the cabin.

The details of the interior have been intricately crafted, with full attention being given to every last feature. We loved the laser-cut stitching used to create unconventional shapes on the seats, doors, panels and suede-topped dashboard. High-end materials are present throughout the vehicle, including fancy, dark open-pore oak wood, used for the trimmings.