As a carmaker, you can’t go to China and offer just standard wheelbase models – I mean you can, but no one will take you seriously.
Infiniti seems to have learned this lesson quickly and will introduce a long-wheelbase version of its QX50 crossover (formerly known as the EX) exclusively for the world’s largest car market.
Scheduled to debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show next month, the China-spec Infiniti QX50 features a 80mm (3.2in) longer wheelbase as well as discrete styling changes that reflect the brand’s current design direction.
The longer wheelbase creates “significantly” more legroom for rear seat passengers, thus improving the comfort offered by the premium compact crossover.
As for the styling updates, these include a new-look grille, redesigned front bumper, sharper headlights and standard LED daylight running lights. Optional extras include an automatically opened and closed tailgate hatch and a full panoramic glass roof.
The Infiniti QX50 LWB will be offered with the same petrol powertrains as the standard wheelbase model in China: a 235PS (232hp) 2.5-liter V6 offered with both RWD and AWD, and an AWD-only 351PS (346hp) 3.7-liter V6. China deliveries of the QX50 LWB begin in February 2015, with pricing to be announced closer to that date.
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