THE wraps are off the Infiniti Sport Inspiration mid-sized SUV concept car as it made its global premiere at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show.

The QX Sport Inspiration follows a series of highly acclaimed concept cars such as the Q30 Concept, QX30 Concept, and Q60 Concept, all of which are being put into production – the Q30 in the UK.

The QX Sport Inspiration concept explores a vision of how Infiniti could once again demonstrate this successful approach in the mid-sized SUV class, one of the largest and fastest-growing premium segments. The new concept also lays down markers for the design, layout, and engineering of future Infiniti QX models.

Heavily influenced by the brand’s acclaimed ‘Powerful Elegance’ design philosophy, the Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration has a powerful, purposeful exterior with sculptural lines and strong, muscular proportions. The concept also features signature Infiniti design cues and an array of innovative details.

The spacious and beautifully appointed interior follows Infiniti’s ‘driver-centric, passenger-minded’ approach to cabin architecture and is characterised by flowing lines and advanced craftsmanship. The interior’s colour palette – predominantly black and white with flashes of the hide’s natural tan colour – is striking, yet harmoniously blended through careful use of line, form, and texture.

Infiniti president Roland Krueger said: “The QX Sport Inspiration is a statement of intent from Infiniti, showcasing a daring design philosophy and a demonstration of our capabilities in the mid-size SUV segment.”

Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti executive design director, added: “The QX Sport Inspiration expresses power and purpose through what we describe as its ‘proportional clarity’, with an elegance that is uniquely Infiniti. The exterior design will appeal to an artistic sensibility. It has a more flowing, natural aesthetic than that evident in traditional premium SUVs.”