The compact crossover segment is hot, and that includes the luxury market, where small SUVs make up 26 per cent of total sales for Canada. The QX50, which accounted for about 20 per cent of Infiniti's overall sales here last year, is important to the Japanese luxury brand.
But while Infiniti is set to release a raft of new vehicles, the QX50 gets just a mild refresh. Debuting in 2008 as the EX35, this model is long in the tooth, but one single change has addressed the model's biggest downfall: a dearth of rear seat room.
No more. By making the long-wheelbase version, previously only available in China, standard across the board, the rear passenger area has been opened up, and people in the back are no longer chewing on their knees.
Infiniti is selling the QX50 based on two main components: performance and value. The standard 3.7-litre V-6 with a class-leading 325 horsepower is not just a smooth performer but a standout in the segment, with others opting for smaller turbocharged four cylinders. Coupled to a seven-speed automatic transmission, the combination delivers smooth and brisk acceleration, though not overpowering. But that bigger V-6 will bite you at the pumps; on a drive around San Diego on mostly smaller country roads, we averaged no better than 13 litres/100 km; hardly what you'd expect from a small crossover.
As for value, Infiniti boasts that, at $37,900, the base QX50 is thousands less than its Asian competitors from Lexus and Acura. And with that price comes a moon roof, heated front seats and leather. For sat/nav, you have to jump two levels up to the $45,300 Premium and Navigation package; and if you want Infiniti's impressive Safety Shield suite of electronic aids that include intelligent cruise control and forward collision brake assist, you'll have to option the top-end $47,800 Premium Navigation and Technology package. Not exactly cheap, though it still brings the QX50 under those rivals' premium models.
Does it work? Sure, the QX50 wins with a lower price, but its performance isn't exactly thrilling. Power and handling are good, even car-like, but it's no Porsche. And, while it has been extended, rear passenger room and cargo room are still middle of the class. Yet even with its limitations, this crossover has a lot going for it; with a standard V-6, all-wheel drive and a wide array of available technology, the QX50 is worth a look.
TECH SPECS
- Base price: $37,900; as tested: $47,800
- Engine: 3.7-litre V-6
- Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
- Fuel economy (litres/100km): 13.7 city, 9.7 highway, premium fuel
- Alternatives: Acura RDX, Lexus NS, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3, BMW X1
RATINGS
- Looks: The refresh brings just small cosmetic changes, with a new grille more in line with the Infiniti family, revised bumpers and new wheels. But it retains its wagon-like profile, with a long hood and sloping rear roofline.
- Interior: While the leather is bountiful and the maple trim on higher models looks premium, some switchgear feels less so. The side bolsters on the front seats are tight and the front cockpit feels a little cramped.
- Performance: The V-6 might not have the low-end torque of smaller turbocharged engines, but it is powerful enough to get this SUV to 100 km/h in around six seconds.
- Technology: A bird’s eye-view camera system is great for parking, while the Safety Shield electronic aids work unnervingly well, controlling the brakes in traffic and able to bring the car to a full stop. Electrically folding rear seat backs are convenient for larger cargo. However, none of these are available on the base model.
- Cargo: Overall cargo room is increased with the extended wheelbase. But up front, there is a serious dearth of storage.
The Verdict
7.5
It's got power and a competitive price going for it, but the QX50 feels dated.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.