Having already driven the Maserati Grecale Trofeo and Jeep Grand Wagoneer with their respective Sonus faber and McIntosh audio systems across Italy and New York and New Jersey — we are already sold on the concept of high-end audio systems in premium luxury SUVs and trucks.
Sonus faber, McIntosh, Burmester, Bang & Olufsen, Naim, Focal, Dynaudio, and Sonos have already secured their deals with some of the largest automakers and it would appear that Panasonic and Klipsch have now secured their marching position in the parade.
Having driven the previous generation QX SUVs — this might be a rather solid ride worth investigating.
Panasonic Automotive Systems Company of America and INFINITI have announced the integration of a segment-exclusive Klipsch Reference Premiere Audio System on the all-new 2025 QX80.
The QX Monograph concept vehicle, previewing the exterior of the all-new 2025 QX80, is featured at Panasonic’s booth at CES 2024, located at #17609 Central Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center.
The all-new 2025 QX80 is set to debut later this spring, and the first listening opportunities in the production vehicle will be scheduled later in 2024.
The Klipsch Reference Premiere Audio System delivers accurate, authentic, audiophile-quality performance throughout the cabin driven by 24 specifically designed speakers, including titanium tweeters, a high-performance 8-inch TriPower subwoofer, HIGHLINE roof mounted speakers, and Panasonic’s proprietary DJX 3D surround sound processing.
“The all-new QX80 drives us toward our New Dawn and signals a bold direction for INFINITI,” said Craig Keeys, group vice president, INFINITI Americas. “The Klipsch Reference Premiere Audio System is the first of many new features to be revealed for our flagship SUV, in which we will elevate the ownership experience – underscoring INFINITI’s commitment to design, quality and performance.”
“Klipsch is an aspirational brand in the consumer market and this new project for the all-new INFINITI QX80 is a natural fit,” said Paul Jacobs, president and CEO, Klipsch Premium Audio Group. “Collaborating with Panasonic Automotive and INFINITI has brought out the best of our combined capabilities to create a new level of audio performance in the luxury vehicle segment.”
Drawing upon decades of audio electronics expertise and as a global leader in audio innovation, Panasonic continues to push the boundaries of audio engineering, with custom, integrated solutions for its OEM partners.
“Panasonic and Klipsch teams have been working together for several years, exploring the possibilities to elevate the performance levels for automotive audio. The Klipsch Reference Premiere System in the QX80 represents our collective passion to deliver a refined, high performance, powerful audio experience at the pinnacle of the INFINITI product lineup,” said Tom Dunn, director, Panasonic Automotive Systems Company of America.
Features for the segment exclusive Klipsch Reference Premiere Audio System include:
- 1-inch titanium tweeters provide extended high frequency response, enhanced clarity and transparency through a design inspired by the revered audiophile-quality Klipsch Reference Premiere consumer product line
- Headrest speakers for the driver and front passenger enable a variety of new audio features
- High-power, high-excursion, 6 x 9-inch mid-bass drivers located in the front doors deliver stunning dynamics
- High-performance, full-range HIGHLINE speakers mounted in the headliner work together with Panasonic’s proprietary DJX 3D Surround algorithm to create an immersive sound experience throughout the cabin, placing the listeners in the center of the performance without compromising fidelity or accuracy
- 8-inch TriPower™ subwoofer with high excursion design provides ultra-low frequency extension;
- The system is powered by a 24-channel amplifier with 1GHz digital signal processor maximizing both power and control
- Unique user interface elements express the new direction for INFINITI and convey the audiophile-level performance and immersive attributes of the Klipsch Reference Premiere Audio System
