2024 INFINITI QX50

The QX50 isn’t a bad choice for the money, particularly in the lower trims where buyers probably have their expectations set at quite realistic levels. Once you climb the trim level ladder and consider spending a larger sum, several more tempting alternatives become eligible. That’s why the QX50 often sits under the metaphorical radar, while rivals either represent better value, bring more prestige, or even raise the driving enjoyment factor. Infiniti launched this generation of QX50 for the 2019 model year, with a few updates between then and now to keep things fairly fresh. As we said above, we consider this a competent example of the class. But we find it hard to get more fired up about it. Looking at our consumer reviews, about 75% of owners would recommend the QX50.

There are no big changes to the QX50 for this model year, just a new Obsidian Black finish becoming available with the Sensory and Autograph trim levels.

For some comparison, the Lexus NX and Lincoln Corsair begin in the $40K region. The Acura RDX, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, and Genesis GV70 are closer to the mid-$40Ks, while the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo XC60 all start in the high $40Ks.

Before buying a new QX50 luxury SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book to know what you should be paying. Resale values are below average — the Lexus NX and Acura RDX lead the charge in this respect.

Having 268 horsepower available with a flex of the right foot is definitely a positive thing in our book. The same goes for 280 lb-ft of torque. This amount of thrust is more than adequate and can enable a sprint from standstill to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds, which is about the same as most contenders. Even so, the Genesis GV70’s base engine has 300 horsepower, the Acura RDX comes with 272 horses, and the Lexus NX 350 packs 275 horsepower. We’ve found that the QX50 isn’t wildly fast, but quick enough for a premium compact SUV. The suspension brings a soothing ride quality — great for road trips. The steering feels precise and prompt, but we think it fails to inspire any playfulness on more interesting roads. We’ve also noticed that the transmission has a tendency to drone when working the engine hard.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact luxury SUVs, including the Infiniti QX50.

Fuel Economy

QX50 fuel economy is on the higher end of typical for the segment. With front-wheel drive, the 2024 QX50 SUV achieves 26 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Put all-wheel drive into the picture and fuel economy changes to 25 combined mpg. Premium gasoline is recommended.

The front seats in the QX50 are really comfortable. And they only become plusher in line with the trim levels when perforated semi-aniline leather comes on board, sporting a quilted effect in the top model. Heated front seats become standard in the second-from-bottom trim, with ventilation coming in the mid-level Essential trim. The second-from-top Sensory trim has simulated suede accents. The infotainment system has something of a dated dual-screen setup, yet Infiniti was smart enough to include physical buttons for often-used functions such as volume and temperature control. Sliding/reclining rear seats provide 38.7 inches of legroom, making the QX50 one of the most spacious in its class. Likewise with cargo area. Luggage space behind the 60/40-split,  folding rear seats measures 39.3 cubic feet. When they’re folded, the maximum is 68.3 cubic feet.

Chances are a lot of people will like the styling of the QX50. Let’s call the grille bold, instead of too big. The rest of this compact SUV looks suitably premium and, to our eyes, well-proportioned. Ground clearance of 8.6 inches can be useful when snow starts to build up. A new Black Obsidian paint finish is offered with the top two trims.

Wireless Apple CarPlay
The ability to link your phone with the infotainment system is super convenient and something we really appreciate. Not having to use a cable with Apple CarPlay is even better and keeps the cabin tidier. Android users still need a cable, however. Wireless charging is also standard across the QX50 range.

ProPilot Assist
Standard in every new QX50, this is a partial self-driving system with full-speed-range adaptive cruise control and steering assistance. Drivers must keep their hands on the wheel, but it takes some of the grind out of long freeway stretches.

All-wheel drive
When the weather turns nasty, it’s always reassuring to have all-wheel drive. This is optional in most variants but standard in the top Autograph trim.

Panoramic moonroof
This comes in at the one-up-from-base Luxe trim level, accompanied by a powered shade. It helps an already roomy cabin feel even airier.

Heated rear seats
For that extra feeling of luxury, these come into play at the penultimate Sensory trim.

Head-up display
Another feature of the Sensory trim projects vital information onto the windshield — fighter pilot style — so drivers are better able to keep their eyes on the road.

There’s some more complex technology than usual going on inside the engine of the QX50. Variable compression. The idea behind it is that fuel economy is optimized under light loads, yet power can still be delivered promptly and forcefully when required. The engine itself is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit turbocharged to produce 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Perhaps this variable compression setup might be more impressive if there wasn’t a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) deployed, a unit often found in budget vehicles. That said, Infiniti (along with parent company Nissan) has performed minor miracles by making a CVT less sluggish in its responses than usual. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is the standard configuration in all but the top Autograph model, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option. Autograph has AWD included.

4-Year/60,000-Mile Warranty

Infiniti has warranties that are a little better than typical, although Genesis is still the class best. The new-vehicle coverage on a QX50 is four years or 60,000 miles, which includes roadside assistance with unlimited miles. The powertrain is protected for six years or 70,000 miles. There’s also complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years, regardless of mileage.

Safety Ratings

This generation of QX50 hasn’t been tested fully by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), but it did receive a maximum 5-Star overall score from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, plus blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.