For 2022, Apple CarPlay compatibility and ProPilot Assist are standard on all Infiniti QX50 trims along with some minor updates. Otherwise, it’s the same midsize luxury SUV as before. Which is just fine with us.
A 2. 0-liter variable-compression 4-cylinder turbo engine develops plentiful 268 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 280 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. The slick and
smooth continuous variable transmission shifts effortlessly. Ensuring stability at quick turns and bumps on the road is a MacPherson strut front and a rear multilink suspension. The variable-assist, direct adaptive steering conveys an unswerving feel. Braking duties are handled exceptionally well by 13-inch vented front and 12.1-inch rear discs. Four drive modes are offered: standard, eco, sport and personal.
Based on a steel unibody structure, QX50 is undoubtedly a boldly attractive vehicle beginning with a long clamshell hood that meets up with a double-arch black-metallic grille, surrounded by horizontal LED headlights and fog lamps. The aluminum roof rails are standard as are the chrome dual exhaust tips and rear tail lamps that connect to the chrome strip. The cabin is crammed with extravagance and luxury features such as aluminum accents on the center console, dashboard, doors, push-button ignition, 60/40-split rear seat, eight-way power front seats, dual auto a/c, 8-inch upper touch screen for navigation and a 7-inch lower screen for climate, audio and phone controls. InTouch, a rotary knob in the center console, controls the dual screens. The familiar Infiniti double-wave instrument panel lights up with electroluminescent gauges. A mix of leather and aluminum on the short but easy-to-grip shifter knob gives a classy touch. As for roominess, there is plenty with a total interior volume of 135.8 cubic feet, and 64.4 cubic feet with the rear seat down. There also is a substantial hidden under-floor bin.
Dual front, side and knee airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle dynamic and traction controls, antiskid system, front/rear crumple zones, front seat active-head restraints, blind spot and lane departure warnings, rear-cross traffic alert and tire pressure monitoring system are standard. Looking into the future of autonomous transport, ProPilot Assist helps drivers to maintain their lane, and set vehicle speed and distance to a car ahead.
Evidently, this carlike crossover is no gas sipper but the QX50 does offer oodles of extravagant treats to coddle its occupants. And the nimble Infiniti is quick on the road, touting a first-rate ride and commendable handling.
QX50 (ESSENTIAL AWD)
Tires: 235/55R19
Wheelbase: 110.2 inches
Length: 184.7 inches
Height: 66 inches
Width: 74.9 inches
Fuel capacity: 16 gallons
City: 22 mpg
Highway: 28 mpg
Weight: 4,105 pounds
Base price: $48,950
Price as tested: $49,975
Web site: www.infinitiusa.com