Infiniti QX50
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a luxury SUV that offers something different from the German alternatives? The Infiniti QX50 might be exactly what you need. This premium compact SUV brings Japanese engineering with American luxury styling, creating a distinctive presence in the crowded premium SUV market. It’s designed for drivers who want to stand out from the typical BMW X3 or Mercedes GLC crowd.

From the outside, the QX50 makes a bold statement with its flowing curves and distinctive front grille. The interior continues this theme with high quality materials and advanced technology that feels genuinely premium. What really sets it apart is its innovative Variable Compression Turbo engine, a world first technology that adapts its compression ratio for optimal performance and efficiency. You get smooth, refined power delivery that makes both city driving and motorway cruising feel effortless.

The QX50 delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience that prioritises passenger comfort over sporty handling. While it may not have the same brand recognition as rivals like the BMW X3 or Audi Q5, it offers genuine luxury at a more accessible price point. With its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and distinctive styling, the QX50 proves that luxury doesn’t always have to come from the usual suspects.

How Does the Infiniti QX50 Drive?

The Infiniti QX50 is powered by a groundbreaking 2.0 litre Variable Compression Turbo petrol engine producing 268 horsepower. This innovative engine can adjust its compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1 depending on driving conditions, delivering both performance and efficiency. The 0 to 60 mph sprint takes around 7.2 seconds, which feels adequately brisk for daily driving and overtaking manoeuvres. Power delivery is smooth and linear, making it ideal for relaxed cruising rather than spirited driving.

Where the QX50 truly excels is in its ride comfort and refinement. The suspension is tuned for comfort over sportiness, soaking up road imperfections with ease. The steering is light and precise at low speeds, making parking and urban driving stress free. At motorway speeds, the SUV feels stable and composed, with minimal wind and road noise entering the cabin. It’s not as engaging to drive as some German rivals, but that’s not really the point. This is a car designed to pamper its occupants rather than thrill them.

How Comfortable Is the Infiniti QX50?

Step inside the QX50 and you’re greeted by a genuinely luxurious cabin that feels special from the moment you sit down. The dashboard design is modern and elegant, featuring high quality materials including quilted leather and brushed aluminium trim. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable with excellent support for longer journeys. The driving position is commanding yet comfortable, with plenty of adjustment to find your ideal seating position.

Technology is well integrated throughout the cabin. The dual screen infotainment system takes a little getting used to but works well once you understand the logic. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, making smartphone integration seamless. The cabin is impressively quiet at all speeds, with excellent sound deadening creating a serene environment. Rear seat passengers are well catered for with generous legroom and headroom, plus individual climate controls to keep everyone comfortable.

The Infiniti QX50 is a compelling choice for buyers seeking luxury SUV comfort with distinctive styling and innovative engineering. Its Variable Compression engine is genuinely impressive, delivering smooth performance with reasonable fuel economy. The interior quality and comfort levels rival much more expensive alternatives, making it excellent value in the used market. The main drawback is Infiniti’s withdrawal from Europe, which affects parts availability and dealer support. It’s also not as dynamically engaging as German rivals, focusing more on comfort than sportiness. However, for buyers who appreciate genuine luxury at an accessible price point, the QX50 offers a refreshing alternative to the usual suspects. It succeeds in its mission to provide American luxury with Japanese reliability, making it perfect for those who want something different from the premium SUV norm.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run an Infiniti QX50?

As a premium SUV, the QX50 comes with corresponding running costs, though they’re generally reasonable for the luxury segment. The innovative Variable Compression engine delivers real world fuel economy of around 30-35 mpg, which is competitive for a petrol SUV of this size. Insurance costs will be higher than mainstream alternatives, typically falling into groups 15-18 depending on the specific trim level you choose.

The main consideration is depreciation and parts availability. Infiniti withdrew from the European market in 2020, which means finding specialist service centres and parts can be more challenging than with established premium brands. However, this also means used examples offer exceptional value for money compared to equivalent German rivals. When considering car finance, the lower purchase price can result in very attractive monthly payments for genuine luxury. Just factor in potential higher servicing costs and ensure you have access to a qualified Infiniti specialist.

Is the Infiniti QX50 Practical for Everyday Use?

The QX50 offers impressive practicality for a premium compact SUV. The 454 litre boot is a good size for the class, easily accommodating weekly shopping or holiday luggage for a family of four. The rear seats split and fold to expand cargo space when needed, making it practical for larger items. Inside the cabin, you’ll find plenty of useful storage areas including large door bins, cup holders, and a generous centre console.

Rear seat space is particularly generous, with adults able to sit comfortably even on longer journeys. The high driving position gives excellent visibility in all directions, making the QX50 ideal for families or anyone who values commanding road presence. While it’s not the most spacious SUV in its class, it strikes a good balance between exterior dimensions and interior room. For couples or small families looking for luxury without the bulk of a larger used Infiniti cars, the QX50 delivers exactly what’s needed for comfortable daily driving.

The Infiniti QX50 stands out in the premium SUV market by offering genuine luxury and innovative technology at a more accessible price point than established German rivals. Its Variable Compression engine represents cutting edge technology, while the interior delivers comfort and quality that punches well above its price bracket. The distinctive styling ensures you won’t blend into the crowd of identical German SUVs.

You choose the QX50 because you want luxury SUV comfort without paying premium badge prices. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and refined driving experience make every journey feel special. While dealer support is limited following Infiniti’s European withdrawal, the used market offers exceptional value for buyers willing to look beyond the mainstream options. For those seeking how to find the cheapest car finance deals in the uk, the QX50 represents outstanding luxury for the money.