2021 Infiniti QX50

 Infiniti’s small SUV, with a big attitude.

At first glance, the Infiniti QX50, looks to pack a lot of punch in a small package. As it should. Being Infiniti’s only crossover SUV and a replacement for the QX30, there are shoes that need filling. Unfortunately, as you dig further into it, the exterior says one thing, but the engine says another. 

Infiniti QX50

Looking at the QX50, we see sharp edges, and a large front grill that has become Infiniti’s staple. We also see a great roof line that leads beautifully into the trunk area. Along the side we have nice lines that flow across the SUV splendidly and make the whole thing just, work. And with the optional 20” rims, this truck really puts off that tuxedo tee shirt vibe (I like to party, but I also want to be comfortable). 

But this is where the QX50 takes a turn. Unfortunately, under the hood, Infiniti gives only one option. That one option being a; 2-litre 4cyl turbo engine, putting out 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Now, for most, I don’t see this as any sort of issue, however in a truck that weighs almost 4,000lbs, it’s not exactly a sports car in disguise. Accompanying the cute little engine, a CVT gearbox available in both FWD and AWD. To be fair, I haven’t driven thousands of cars with CVT transmissions, but, the ones I have driven are usually not that great, and I can imagine it is the same across the board. 

Infiniti QX50

The interior. Let me start by saying wow, the quilted style leather seats are pretty damn nice, and available in an Infiniti nonetheless. That being said, the infotainment is broken into two screens, like a good chunk of cars today, and seems to be just as hard to use. Happily, they did decide to keep some of the tactile buttons so there is a bit of positivity. There is also a variety of colour options, so you can really mix it up if you want to.

Infiniti QX50

Infiniti QX50

All in all, I think Infiniti did a decent job with the QX50. Is it my favourite crossover? No. But, for looks, I would say they didn’t do too bad. My big irk, is the engine, it’s just too small. I know, I know, it’s not all about size Jon, but still, I think it could’ve used an extra 20-30 horsepower. For the price (between $44,000-$60,000) I would suggest shopping around before making any final decision. There are a lot of options nowadays in the crossover market and, brands to choose from before making any final decisions. 

Infiniti QX50