2016 INFINITI QX50 VIDEO REVIEW

2016 INFINITI QX50 VIDEO REVIEW by Auto Critic Steve Hammes

 

If you haven’t studied up on Infiniti’s name changes yet, well what are you waiting for?  Previously known as the EX35, the brand’s smallest crossover is now called the QX50. But more than just that, it’s finally grown up.

The Infiniti brand is Nissan’s extension of performance and luxury. They sell 3 crossovers and one big boy SUV, none of which is more diminutive than this – the new 2016 QX50; a small wagon introduced late in 2007 long before the premium subcompact crossover boom had begun. Though it was a little ahead of its time, it was also a little too little inside with cramped rear seats. Infiniti has been vowing to correct that issue for a number of years and now they’ve finally done it.

The wheelbase is now over 3” longer while the QX50’s overall length has increased 4 ½”. The obvious result is more passenger room, with the lion’s share bestowed to those in the 2^nd row where knee room is stretched by nearly 4”, now making this space kid and adult friendly. The seats don’t slide or recline and they’re not heated, but when it comes time to haul the flat screen home they split fold via power operated switches from each side of the rear and for added convenience, the seats can also be raised from the front. And with a low load floor and wide hatch, cargo volume is not only easy to access but more plentiful than its key rivals. Need a place to hang your coat? Opt for the Deluxe Touring Package and the hanger is yours.

It’s been nearly 6 years since I’ve driven one of these and much to my surprise other than the increased rear seat room very little has changed.

Visually speaking Infiniti has done very little in here over this vehicle’s lifespan and that is a bit of a disappointment. Not that I’m advocating change simply for change sake, but items like the infotainment system, information display, knobs and switchgear all look long in the tooth. The power operated front seats are perfect at ensconcing occupants in a body hugging position while the QX50’s newly raised ground clearance lends to a more commanding, SUV-like view from the driver’s seat. Getting in and out is easy and combined with the high content level the QX50 possesses that affable character that’ll please its owners.

The EX was always an engaging drive and that’s still the same here but now with even more engine. This is a racy personal crossover, with speed on its mind, quick, weighty steering, and a sport tuned suspension that’s set for firm, controlled motions. Put the 7-speed in sport mode and the transmission will blip the throttle on downshifts for an added dose of sports coupe. If you want a legit driving experience from your small runabout this is it.

Infiniti moved to this bigger 3.7-liter V6 in 2013 and it’s a monster here in the QX50. Rated at 325 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, I promise you’ll never hit the gas pedal and be let down. Without direct injection and requiring premium unleaded however, there’s a price to be paid for this level of motor – it’s rated at only 20mpg in combined driving. My tester rides on the optional 19” wheels which look sharp but these Bridgestones contribute to the firmer ride and are darn expensive to replace. If there’s one thing you should take away from my review it’s that the QX50 is the edgy alternative in the segment. I like it but it’s not for everyone.

Inside, there’s the brand’s excellent Around View Monitor as part of the Premium Plus Package and Infiniti provides more modern safety features via the Technology Package like intelligent cruise, blind spot warning, and more intrusive items such as Distance Control Assist and Intelligent Brake Assist that keeps you a safe distance away from the vehicle in front of you by braking automatically. Though I could see that as being useful in congested city driving, I didn’t care for it around here. Gladly, the QX50 has a few buttons that can easily deactivate the features you’re not in love with.

Fully loaded, this QX50 AWD stickers for $44,935 while a rear-wheel drive model is also available. The updated appearance and new blue paint choice truly give the QX50 a unique look; a design of Japanese elegance that I kind of dig.

If you don’t mind a touch of staleness, the QX50 is a sporty personal statement full of features at a very competitive price.