IT’S A BEST BUY BECAUSE:
The QX50 hits all the premium compact SUV high points—it’s posh, stylish, quick, and fairly nimble, and it offers excellent room for people and cargo inside its sensibly sized exterior dimensions.
BUT…
Getting desirable optional equipment requires stepping up to high-end trim levels.
WORTH NOTING:
The QX50 is available with ProPilot Assist, a driving assistance technology that pairs full stop-and-go adaptive cruise control with automatic lane-centering steering assistance.
WHAT IS IT?
The QX50 is Infiniti’s entry into the popular premium compact SUV segment. After taking the 2018 model year off, the QX50 returned for 2019 in completely redesigned, re-imagined form. switching from rear-wheel-drive architecture to a front-wheel-drive-based chassis in the process. The sole powertrain is a turbocharged, variable-compression-ratio 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that puts out 268 horsepower and is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Trim levels ascend through Pure, Luxe, Essential, Sensory, and Autograph models; the last two are new additions for 2020.
All QX50s come standard with features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, rear automatic braking, keyless entry and starting, a dual-screen infotainment system, four USB ports, a power liftgate, and 19-inch wheels. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, semi-aniline leather upholstery, a navigation system, head-up display, surround-view camera display, front and rear parking sensors, 20-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, heated steering wheel, and three-zone climate control.
WHAT’S NEW?
In addition to the two new trim levels mentioned above, the QX50 gets standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, an upgraded infotainment system, and revised optional-equipment packages for 2020.
FUEL ECONOMY
EPA-estimated fuel economy is 23 mpg city/29 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and 22/28 with all-wheel drive. In Consumer Guide® testing, a front-wheel-drive Essential model averaged 25.5 mpg in 75-percent highway driving. Infiniti recommends premium gasoline.
VALUE IN CLASS
The Infiniti QX50 does a laudable job of balancing the “sport” and “utility” sides of the SUV equation, and brings impressive luxury to the table as well—at least in the higher-line trim levels. The variable-compression-ratio engine is an impressive piece of high-tech hardware, but its fuel economy doesn’t really impress compared to class rivals. Still, the QX50’s compelling list of standard and available features, passenger and cargo utility, and high style inside and out make it an excellent choice.
| BASE PRICE RANGE | $37,250 – $55,850 |
| BODY STYLES | 4-Door Wagon |
| AVAILABLE ENGINES | 268-HP, Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 4-Cyl. |
| DRIVE WHEELS | Front or All-Wheel Drive |
| BUILT IN | Mexico |
| EPA FUEL-ECONOMY RANGE | 22-29 MPG |
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