Overview & Reviews

Upon seeing and driving the Infiniti QX70, it becomes apparent that it wasn't designed to be a staid, family-oriented luxury SUV. It's mean, outrageous, curvaceous and available with a pair of stout engines. While other SUVs are based on sedans, trucks and even minivans, the QX70 traces its lineage back to a sports car: Nissan's Z. As such, the QX70 and its different-named predecessors have carved out a cool little niche of their own.

Previously, this model was known as the FX, which is covered in a separate review. It is now called the QX70 in keeping with Infiniti's recent naming protocol, wherein all of its SUVs have a QX prefix, with the number indicating the model's place within Infiniti's hierarchy. Regardless of its name, though, this vehicle has been a different sort of sport-utility: one that puts an unmistakable emphasis on "sport," with some "utility" being a side benefit. Passenger and cargo room have never been what we would call generous, so if hauling the kids to hockey practice is a priority, something else may be in order. As such, the Infiniti QX70 is certainly not for everyone. But for those who like the idea of a high-riding sport sedan with standout styling and performance, the Infiniti QX70 may be the perfect choice.

Current Infiniti QX70 Models
Though technically introduced for 2014, the Infiniti QX70 is essentially the previous FX with a new name. It offers a choice of either a 3.7-liter, 325-horsepower V6 (QX70 3.7) or a 5.0-liter V8 making 390 hp (QX70 5.0). Either way, the transmission is a seven-speed automatic with manual shift control. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the 3.7, with all-wheel drive available. The 5.0 comes only with AWD. To preserve the crossover's sporty handling, the AWD system has a rearward bias.

Standard features highlights for the 3.7 include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights, a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, a power liftgate, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated power front seats, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an 11-speaker Bose audio system with a CD changer, an iPod/USB audio interface and satellite radio.

The QX70 5.0 also features bigger wheels, ventilated front seats, a navigation system, quilted leather upholstery and a 360-degree overhead camera system. Option highlights include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and prevention, an adaptive suspension, rain-sensing wipers, sport seats and different wood trim.

Regardless of powertrain, the QX70 is known for its athleticism, as carlike handling is encoded in its DNA. There's ultimately no hiding its higher center of gravity and hefty mass, yet around corners the QX70 displays impressive road-holding prowess and confidence, aided by strong, consistent brakes and a tight and direct steering feel. The trade-off, however, is a stiffer ride on the highway. Opting for the larger wheels only compounds matters, increasing road noise and impact harshness.

In addition to those fine handling chops, our reviews of the Infiniti QX70 also revealed that the 3.7 version provides more than enough performance. Honestly, the V8 is really just an example of overkill. All QX70s, however, suffer from a lack of utility. Quite simply, the QX70's backseat and cargo room pale in comparison to its competitors, as even some smaller luxury crossovers are more spacious.

User Reviews:

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  Love the look. Hate the car - 2017 Infiniti QX70
  By Ron - July 5 - 10:17 pm

  Ride is stiff. rattles my dentures. No room in the rear. Im a big guy so this has made my car a three seater. Not enough space between brake and accelerator. my foot often is partially on both which is a hazard waiting to happen. The gas mileage sucks. Im only getting 10 mpg. Well below the advertised amount. This was my dream car since the FX35 first came out. My dream has turned into a nightmare.