2019 Infiniti QX50 Preview

Introduction

The Infiniti QX50 can trace its roots back to 2006, when the Front Midship (FM) platform on which it sits first debuted tucked beneath the redesigned G35 sport sedan. Essentially a tall-riding hatch not dissimilar to a 3 Series Gran Turismo, the 2008 Infiniti EX35 ultimately morphed into the current QX50, a dynamically pleasing but technologically stunted vehicle seriously lacking in cargo capacity.

Enter the redesigned 2019 Infiniti QX50. It sits on a new platform, offers seating for 5 people, and is aimed at vehicles such as the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Cadillac XT5, Jaguar F-Type, Lexus RX, Lincoln MKX, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

• 2017 Infiniti QX50 Overview
• 2018 Infiniti Buyer's Guide

Exterior Features

Take a look at the new Infiniti QX50 and you’ll spot an instant family resemblance to the Q50 sedan, Q60 coupe, QX30 crossover, QX60 family crossover, and QX80 SUV. Infiniti calls the design language “Powerful Elegance.”

No doubt, the new QX50 is more appealing than the old one. At the same time, it also lacks the panache of the now-discontinued QX70. Blame its move to a front-drive platform, and the vehicle proportions typically forced by that type of layout.

In any case, Infiniti says the new QX50 marks the first use of what it calls Super High Formability 980 MPa high-tensile steel. The material is claimed to save weight, improve torsional rigidity, and can be molded into more intricate shapes.

Overall, the QX50’s appearance is appealing.

Interior Features

As this is written, in advance of the QX50’s Los Angeles Auto Show debut, I must take Infiniti’s word for the “high quality materials” used in the construction of the cabin. Infiniti characterizes the control layout as asymmetric, with a “calm, connected ambience” and “unrivaled interior space” for the segment.

To assist in maximizing passenger room, the rear bench seat slides fore and aft to create more legroom or to help maximize cargo room. Position it in its most generous setting for occupants and the trunk measures a minimum of 31.6 cu. ft. Underfloor storage helps, too, and the automaker says that a stroller will fit lengthwise. Fold the rear seats and maximum cargo capacity measures 60 cu. ft.

Under the Hood

The 2019 QX50 is the first Infiniti to get the company’s new VC-Turbo engine. A turbocharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder power plant, the VC-Turbo includes the world’s first use of a variable compression ratio, which automatically adjusts between 8:1 for performance and 14:1 for efficiency. Infiniti says this design supplies buyers with the power they want from a turbocharged gasoline engine combined with the efficiency of a turbodiesel engine.

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Making 268 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 280 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm, the VC-Turbo engine employs a continuously variable transmission and front-wheel or all-wheel drive (FWD or AWD). With FWD, 60 mph arrives in 6.7 seconds, according to Infiniti. With AWD, it takes just 6.3 seconds to reach that velocity. Top speed is a claimed 143 mph, and the QX50 AWD provides 8.6 ins. of ground clearance.

In combined driving, fuel economy expectations are 27 mpg for front-drive and 26 mpg for AWD.

Safety and Technology

Infiniti’s early QX50 information is coy, but the company does confirm that Pro-Pilot Assist technology will be available for this SUV. Designed for use during single-lane highway driving, this technology includes adaptive cruise control, stop-and-go capability, and lane-centering assist to make driving in heavy traffic easier.

No other details about safety and technology were released in advance of the vehicle’s L.A. debut.

Additional Research

• 2017 Infiniti QX50 Overview
• 2018 Infiniti Buyer's Guide