Review and Test Drive: 2019 Infiniti QX50

By Paul Riegler on 2 May 2019
  • Share

Shown as a concept car at the 2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the production version of the second-generation QX50 was unveiled later that year at the Los Angeles Auto Show as a 2019 model.

The good-looking SUV – which has all the sharp creases that are de rigeur in an Infiniti – emphasizes the premium aspect of the vehicle, as does the crescent kink in the D-pillar. What’s notable and perhaps even revolutionary about the QX50 is that it’s the first production vehicle to come standard with Infiniti’s VC-Turbo 2.0-liter inline four, replacing the automaker’s tried-and-true 3.7-liter V-6.

A major improvement is the new QX50 platform, a significant upgrade from the outgoing QX50’s front-engine, rear-wheel drive platform borrowed from the G sedan (now the Q50).  There’s a reason most SUVs are not front-engine, rear-wheel drive, of course, namely the inverse of why sports sedans are front-engine, rear-wheel drive.  The new front-engine, front- or all-wheel drive platform is lighter, stiffer, and more fun to drive.

IMG_0342

DRIVING THE 2019 INFINITI QX50

Sit down in the cavernous passenger compartment, press the start button, and the VC-Turbo makes its presence unmistakably known.

The interior is quite elegantly trimmed, with natural wood, microfiber trim, and quilted seats. It’s refined and quiet once underway, and the seats are downright soothing to one’s back.

What isn’t quite as soothing are the two touchscreens in the center stack. The upper system is for navi and the navi system feels old. Below that, the second touchscreen handles apps, audio, phone, settings, and destination entry. Despite their proximity, the two units look like they came from two different parts bins given the very different fonts they use.

Click here to continue to Page 2 – Driver Assistance Technologies and Handling

Pages: 1 2