Overview & Reviews

Crossover SUV shoppers, by the very nature of the vehicle they seek, are a demanding lot. They want something that drives like a sedan, while still being a capable people mover and competent cargo hauler. That's a tall order to fill. But not everyone seeking this versatility wants a vehicle that has all of these traits in equal measure. Some drivers are willing to sacrifice some utility in exchange for an extra helping of sporty driving character. Enter the Infiniti QX50.

Shoppers should know that throughout its run, Infiniti's compact crossover had an identity crisis of sorts, as it has had no fewer than three monikers, including the otherwise identical EX35 and EX. It is now called the QX50 in keeping with Infiniti's recent naming protocol in which all of its SUVs have a QX prefix. All three are similar, with only minor changes made through the years to their powertrains and features.

Whatever you call it, this compact sport-utility has the "sport" part easily covered thanks to a powerful V6 and sharp reflexes. It also boasts numerous high-end luxury features. The main downside is that it lacks rear-seat passenger room and cargo capacity compared to most of its rivals. Still, if you're more concerned about driving enjoyment than people- and cargo-hauling, the QX50 should more than satisfy.

Current Infiniti QX50 Models
Though technically introduced for 2014, the Infiniti QX50 is essentially the previous EX with a new name. As such, it is a five-passenger small luxury crossover available in base and Journey trim levels. Power comes via a 3.7-liter V6 packing 325 horsepower that's matched to a seven-speed automatic with manual shift control. Either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive is available. Acceleration is swift, with the QX50 running the 0-60-mph dash in only about 6 seconds.

Like all Infiniti models, the QX50 comes very well equipped. Standard features include keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone climate control, power front seats, leather upholstery, a rearview camera, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface. Stepping up to the Journey adds a sunroof, a power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated front seats and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Optional features include adaptive xenon headlights, driver memory functions, a power-folding rear seat, a Bose stereo, a navigation system, parking sensors, a multi-camera parking system, a lane-departure warning system, adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system and a blind-spot warning system.

The QX50 simply shines in terms of driving dynamics. In fact, the Infiniti QX50 is less of an SUV and more of a sport sedan with a tall ride height and a rear hatch. In reviews, we've noted that it strikes a near-ideal balance between ride quality and handling. With 18-inch wheels it feels comfortable over broken pavement, yet sharp and responsive in tight corners. The V6 pulls hard from almost any speed, and the brakes are strong and easy to modulate.

As enjoyable as the QX50 is from behind the wheel, though, it doesn't exactly put the "utility" in sport-utility. The QX50 is short on cargo space compared to its rivals, and the rear seat offers just 28.5 inches of legroom -- also substantially less than what's available in competitors. However, for singles and couples drawn to the comforts and conveniences of SUV ownership, the elegant Infiniti QX50 is an appealing option. It has plenty of power, and it also boasts one of the best ride/handling balances of any premium compact crossover. If you don't need a lot of space for kids, pets or cargo, the QX50 should prove rather appealing.

User Reviews:

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  2016 Qx50 is not a luxury suv/crossover. - 2016 Infiniti QX50
  By Ernesto Cejas - February 4 - 3:17 pm

  I leased a 2016 Qx50 front wheel drive with Premium package. I also own a 2015 C300 Mercedes Benz AWD. - Bluetooth audio is not standard! Not only that, you need to get the premium package plus to able to get it. They do that to force you to get the navigation with it. Its competitors dont scam you like this. This is a feature that should be standard on all models. - Except the audio system (what is it good for if you cannot connect the music of your phone into the car?), the technology in this car sucks. The voice recognition is slow and unless you pay 2000 for the premium plus package it only works to make phone calls. - Make sure you live close to a gas station because this car does 17/18 combined mpg. Really poor compared with its competitors.

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  A Sleeper of an SUV - 2016 Infiniti QX50
  By Lee - January 12 - 4:50 pm

  Considered all the competition but came back to the 2016 Infiniti QX50. Wanted a strong V6 not a turbo 4 banger (Long Term Reliability!). Seems many are complaining about gas mileage. With just 2,500 miles I am able to get around 16 MPG in town and a solid 26.5 MPG on the highway. Achieved a high of 28.2 MPG on a recent trip. I am using lighter Mobil 1 5W-20 so this may help slightly in the mileage. Great vehicle and value. My regrets is lack of an auto lift gate on the rear also lack of Apple or Android Auto.

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  Love it, BUT...wont buy it again - 2017 Infiniti QX50
  By Kim N - June 12 - 11:39 pm

  This SUV offers a great smooth ride and accelerates better than any car Ive owned, including other luxury cars. I had hoped to own it for many years but I am highly disappointed in some things that are important to me that will prevent me from keeping the car. The fuel economy does not exist, the SUV is a gas guzzler and in a time of fuel efficiency, its really poor. The navigation system is the absolute worse. You cant see the current traffic status unless you set/enter a destination, thats so 90s. Just to simply drive to work/home you cannot observe current traffic, so Im stuck using Google Maps or Waze on my phone after spending nearly $2k for navigation. You cant get Bluetooth without the navigation pkg., and you must have a Sirius XM package for the system to work, again this is archaic. Only 1 USB port, and all information is in a list which is incredibly unsafe & a huge distraction so you cant use it while driving. The directional compass is a tiny arrow, you never know what direction is N,W, S or E without searching while driving for the arrow. There is no power button for the trunk, there are no cup/bottle holders in the doors and the duel cup holders in the center console are too small for more than one cup at a time and it blocks the gear shift!

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  Great Crossover - 2016 Infiniti QX50
  By Penelope Quintero - September 16 - 12:06 pm

  We were looking for a vehicle that we could keep for many years. Looked and drove MANY crossovers. In the end, we really liked the known reliability and power of the VQ engine. The crossover drives like a fast car, I have no problem passing cars at high speeds and it gets up to speed effortless when entering the freeway. The seats are very comfortable and the interior has more of a "classic" feel to it. Electronics are average, nothing out of the ordinary. Technology is great, parking with the 360 cameras makes the job much easier while having the front sensing brakes gives you peace of mind. At around 10mph, we had a child jump in front of the car unexpectedly and the vehicle stopped automatically. Can not speak of reliability yet but required maintenance mainly includes basic oil changes every 6months and brake flush every 2 years. There are many different options out there but we chose this crossover because of the sporty way it drives, the known VQ engine, and the options it has for the price. We are very happy and will considered buying an Infiniti again in the future.

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  "5 STAR BARGAIN" - 2014 Infiniti QX50
  By oldtimecarguy - June 16 - 7:33 am

  Retired after 35 years in the automobile business. Researched the 2014 Infinity QX50 thoroughly before purchase. Cant drive it enough! All day comfortable! Wonderful power and luxury! Negotiated a great deal! Naturally aspirated 6 cylinder with 325 horsepower.(No turbo or supercharger to worry about). Japanese reliability. My wife and I recently returned from Pennsylvania, put on 1000 miles(24 miles per gallon). Great through the mountains! We put the rear seats forward for more storage and better visibility. Dont hesitate to buy the QX50 or to compare it to anything in its class. 2014 Infinity QX50 AWD Journey.(Moonlight White) OH YEAH!