Infiniti’s QX60 is the brand’s best-selling nameplate, with more than 400,000 sold globally since it debuted in 2012. Back then it was a novelty; a trailblazer on the road. But now the three-row mid-size luxury SUV segment is crowded with growing and new contenders such as the Genesis GV80 and Lincoln Aviator.
“The segment is not what it was back in 2012. At the same time, this QX60 is very different from the one back then,” says Eric Rigaux, global head of product strategy at Infiniti Motor Company.
With the new 2022 QX60, its design will be the key to success. Truth be told, the QX60 needed a major makeover – even Infiniti designers agreed.
“There was a sense that the QX60, especially in the sense of design, could use some evolution,” admits Alfonso Albaisa, senior vice president of global design at Nissan Motor Company.
The new QX60′s exterior is a marked improvement over its predecessor. Flowing lines and beautiful curves adorn its body. At the front end, eye-catching chrome frames the mesh grille, which resembles its QX55 sibling. The piano-key LED headlights are sharp-looking, connecting to the grille to give a stronger presence and a more cohesive look.
From the three-quarter rear angle, the QX60 actually resembles a Land Rover Range Rover with its large tinted windows. At the rear, there are dual chrome exhaust tips, piano-key LED head lights, a small Infiniti logo and large Infiniti letters plastered across the bumper.
Colour is the key to “freshness on the vehicle,” says Albaisa. And it is, especially when looking at the stunning new shade, dubbed Moonbow Blue, that’s exclusive to this vehicle. It’s a nice metallic blend of blue and grey.
In the photos, the cabin appears upscale, spacious and versatile. The saddle brown leather appointments look rich and unique with an intricate quilting pattern covering not only on the seats, but also the dashboard. These days, no interior is complete without a massive panoramic roof, which is standard.
The QX60 seats up to seven passengers, but the six-passenger option is the way to go. With that, two large captain’s chairs replace the bench seat in the second row. They look spacious and super comfortable. The second-row seats also tilt and slide, even with a child safety seat in place. A new, one-touch button is added to flip the second-row seats so its easier to access the third row.
Compared to the outgoing QX60, both second-row and third-row passengers get more space, more hip-to-heel room to be exact. Every bit helps, especially if you’re riding in the third row. Theatre-style seating in the second- and third-row seats also improve outward visibility for all passengers. The second- and third-row seats can also fold forward to create a nearly flat cargo area. With the third-row folded, there’s 1,178 litres of cargo space and 54 litres of underfloor cargo storage.
The vehicle’s upgraded technology offerings now include a 12.3-inch infotainment centre touchscreen, a 10.8-inch head-up display, USB ports in all three rows including two USB ports in the third row, WiFi connectivity for up to seven devices and wireless Apple CarPlay. Unfortunately, Android Auto isn’t wireless and still needs a USB cable to connect. Infiniti’s semi-autonomous ProPILOT Assist system is enhanced with Navi Link, which now combines data sourced from the onboard navigation system to help slow the SUV on sharp bends. Traffic sign recognition is added to the system.
One thing that’s surprising, and perhaps disappointing, is the powerplant. Infiniti invested a lot of money in developing its new variable compression turbocharged engine, but unfortunately the QX60 doesn’t get it. Instead, it’s powered by an updated 295 horsepower, 3.5L naturally aspirated V-6 engine. Mated to the engine is an all-new 9-speed automatic transmission, which is a welcome addition compared to the current model’s lacklustre continuously variable transmission.
To make the QX60 more appealing to women and families, Infiniti turned to Hollywood actress, Golden Globe award winner, and mother Kate Hudson for the QX60′s global unveiling – just like Lincoln uses actor Matthew McConaughey to boost its image and SUV sales. But the QX60 probably doesn’t need that endorsement; it’s a marked improvement on its own, especially on the design and technology front.
The 2022 Infiniti QX60 goes on sale this fall. Prices will be available next month.
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