Infiniti

Once upon a time, Infiniti was renowned for building cars that put more than a few legacy automakers on notice. Models like the original Q45 and the G35 were industry benchmarks for driving enjoyment and, while not perfect, felt special and grabbed defectors from coveted German luxury brands.

Over the past decade, though, Infiniti has felt sleepy, like it’s been striving for adequacy rather than greatness. The outgoing QX60 seems to corroborate this notion. Despite being just an average player in its segment, the midsize crossover SUV was Infiniti’s most popular model last year and, historically, has sold competitively against chief competition like the Acura MDX and Volvo XC90. It’s troublesome, however, to consider how long a luxury brand can survive by leaning on what suffices. In other words, Infiniti needs a hit. Is the 2022 QX60 the ticket? Well, it certainly looks that way.

Both inside and out, the 2022 model is drastically improved from the 2020 iteration, as was obvious when we first saw it back in June. That introduction piqued our curiosity. Could this crossover SUV drive as well as it looks?

The 2022 Infiniti QX60. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

As a refresher, the outgoing model was as dynamic as a wet blanket. In May of last year, we spent a week with the 2020 QX60, and while it felt agile enough for motoring quickly about town, on a sinuous mountain road, the SUV felt awkward—the nude-while-public-speaking type of awkward. You’d think the abject absence of sporty handling would mean creaminess at a saunter, but the old QX60 offered only average ride quality.
After only 30 seconds in the 2022 model, we were blindsided by the night-and-day difference. Starting at $46,850, the new QX60 offers an impressive ride/handling balance that approaches that of the lofty BMW X5. A touch more attenuation of smaller road imperfections would place the Infiniti at parity with the Bimmer, but considering the Bavarian’s much higher $59,400 entry price, we’re still impressed.

The 2022 example we tested felt more planted and nimble than past iterations. 

Photo by Patrick Daly, courtesy of Infiniti.

The QX60 can handle the twisty stuff, too. Charging into the bends around Goat Rock Beach in Northern California’s Sonoma County, the new QX60 feels planted and nimble, even with the moderate body roll expected. What’s most surprising, though, is the steering. Over the past few years, Infiniti has been introducing new models with anywhere from poor to forgettable electric steering. The QX60 bucks that trend by now featuring one of the better systems out there. During our testing, the steering effort feels on point in the Standard drive mode, and firms up nicely in Sport mode. The steering rack is 6 percent quicker this year, and even offers a hint of feedback through the wheel. Brake feel was never an issue with the previous QX60, and the same holds true for 2022. The pedal is firm and communicative for confident stopping.

Infiniti’s “zero gravity” front seats dressed in Saddle Brown semi-aniline leather. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

Power still comes from a 3.5-liter V-6 making 295 hp and 270 ft lbs of torque, but instead of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), power is now routed to the front, or all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. We never had a problem with the 2020’s CVT, but the new torque-converter automatic does a better job of leveraging the V-6’s power and twist thanks to a wider ratio spread. Infiniti says its “low first gear delivers 60 percent more driving force than its predecessor.” In practice, the new QX60 really jumps off the line, and is more alert at all speeds.

Powering the QX60 is a 295 hp, 3.5-liter V-6, making 270 ft lbs of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

As the miles continue to roll by during our loop around the Napa Valley and Sonoma Coast, the massaging front seats equipped on our loaded, all-wheel-drive, Autograph-spec QX60 (starting at $63,250), keep us feeling fresh, as does the ventilated front chairs. The QX60’s cabin is a comfortable and quiet place to spend time—quieter than ever now, thanks to about 35 pounds of additional acoustic-dampening material.
When it comes to sound, however, what comes through loud and clear is the new 17-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system, an upgrade from the previous 15-speaker Bose setup. But it’s not all good news for audiophiles. To maximize under-floor cargo space, Infiniti moved the subwoofers from the spare tire nook to behind the cargo area’s rear panels. As a result, the bass is less punchy, although most folks would likely choose the extra space if given the choice.

The first-row seats offer three massage options selected from the dash display. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

Many will also appreciate the QX60’s smoother-operating ProPilot Assist lane-centering adaptive cruise control. Now linked to the available navigation system, the semi-autonomous array can slow the crossover for bends and off-ramps. And we love how ProPilot Assist with Navi Link is minimally invasive, slowing the vehicle just slightly in the bends. Similar competitive systems scrub speed so aggressively in turns that motorists following behind may display a certain finger in displeasure.

The QX60’s smoother-operating ProPilot Assist lane-centering adaptive cruise control is now linked to the navigation system. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

Also impressive is the QX60’s traffic sign recognition. When it detects a change in the posted speed limit, a notification will pop up in the 10.8-inch head-up display asking if you want the vehicle to adjust its speed to satisfy the legal limit. How heartening is that? The robots may be taking over, but at least they’re asking permission first.
The 2022 Infiniti QX60 feels like a sign that the brand is turning a corner. This new, well-rounded QX goes beyond being just a major improvement over the outgoing model, it’s a crossover that buyers now truly have reasons to get excited about. People are going to want the latest version because it looks great, it’s fun to drive and it’s still a competent family hauler.

Infiniti’s 2022 QX60 with the Autograph trim package (shown here) starts at $63,250. 

Photo by Patrick Daly, courtesy of Infiniti.

On par with its competition once again, this Infiniti knocks it out of the park. And if the marque is infusing passion into what’s arguably its most practical model, what could that mean for the brand’s enthusiast-oriented cars, not to mention the entire future lineup? Acura, Volvo and even the Germans may need to worry.

Learn more about Robb Report’s 2022 Car of the Year at the event taking place in Napa Valley here and in Boca Raton here.

Infiniti is reworking the QX80 from the inside out.

The luxury automaker just unveiled a refreshed version of its flagship SUV that’s set to go on sale later this year as part of its 2022 model year lineup, and the interior is the star of the show. The updated car comes with a made-over cabin with a touchscreen as its centerpiece.
The new QX80 is available in three different trim levels (Luxe, Premium Select and Sensory), and whichever you choose, a 12.3-inch InTouch screen will come standard. Located in the middle of the dash, at the top of the center console, the widescreen display gives you access to the vehicle’s infotainment system, from which you can monitor the car, navigate and select entertainment options via Apple AirPlay and Android Auto. And if you want your passengers (read kids) to stay entertained while you drive, a Rear Seat Entertainment system upgrade includes two 8-inch screens fitted into the back of the front row’s headrests.

The front row of the QX80 

Infiniti

The new SUV comes standard with three rows of Napa leather seats (the first of which is heated) that can accommodate seven people total. For audiophiles, a 13-speaker Bose audio system provides premium sound throughout the cabin. There’s also a wireless charger for your phone and WiFi hotspot capability to keep you connected.  The Premium Select package adds a unique Matte Mocha Burl interior trim, while Sensory adds a more powerful 17-speaker sound system and ventilated front seats.
From the outside, the QX80 retains the same look its had since its last major redesign in 2018. The large body is commanding, just as any full-size SUV should be, but with subtle curves and chrome accents that offset any boxiness. It also rides on a pair of 20-inch alloy wheels, though the Premium Select and Sensory packages bump them up to 22-inch dark chrome alloy rims.

The QX80’s 12.3-inch touchscreen 

Infiniti

There’s only one engine to choose from, a 5.6-liter V-8. Mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission that sends powers to the rear axle it can generate 400 hp and 413 ft lbs of torque. If you’re the kind of SUV lover who wants the option of going off-road, Infiniti’s All-Mode four-wheel-drive system is available as an add-on. The SUV has a four-wheel, double-wishbone suspension, the rear of which is self-adjusting and strong enough to tow 8,500 pounds. A hydraulic Body Motion Control System is available as an option if you crave an even smoother ride.

“The new 2022 Infiniti QX80 has even more technology inside, adding to the luxury and remarkable strength it’s known for,” Jeff Pope, Infiniti Americas group vice president, said in a statement. “The new QX80 takes its place at the top of our SUV lineup that’s growing bolder for 2022 with the all-new QX55 crossover coupe and, in just a few weeks, the completely redesigned QX60 three-row SUV.”

The back two rows of the QX80 

Infiniti

An on-sale date has yet to be announced, but expect the QX80, which is currently being built in Japan, to go on sale in the US later this year. The Luxe version starts at $70,600, the Premium Select at $75,385 and the Sensory at $82,235.

The current-generation Infiniti QX60 has been on sale since 2012. In other words, it’s ancient. That hasn’t really affected its popularity, though. The three-row, midsize crossover was Infiniti‘s best-selling model last year, and has historically held its own against robust competition like the Acura MDX and the Volvo XC90. Still, Infiniti needed to bring this SUV out of the stone age, and it looks like it has with the introduction of the redesigned 2022 model.

It only takes a quick glance to see that this new QX60 is a drastic design departure from the 2020 version currently sitting on dealer lots. (You read that right: there was no 2021-model-year QX60.) The QX60, in general, has remained handsome over its near-decade lifespan, at least to my eyes. The ’22 model, however, is an absolute stunner with its bold face, sculpted body and creative visual touches like headlights and taillights inspired by piano keys.

The Infiniti QX60’s return for the 2022 model year. 

Photo by Manuel Carrillo III.

The same goes for the cabin, especially with those elegant, triangular speaker coves in the door panels. The new interior’s technology is just as much of a leap forward as its design. Considering the 2020 model’s insides are from a time when people were worried about what the Mayan calendar portended, it’s sort of unsurprising that it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Not the ’22 version, though. Both varieties of smartphone mirroring come standard, with the Apple version able to project wirelessly. And all new QX60s get a 12.3-inch touchscreen atop the center stack, and Wi-Fi is compulsory as well. Optional tech includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.8-inch head-up display, wireless phone charging and a 17-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system.
Standard advanced driver-assistance features include forward automatic braking—with pedestrian detection—and reverse automatic braking. Traffic-sign recognition is optional, as well as ProPilot Assist, Infiniti’s version of lane-centering adaptive cruise control. Now linked with the navigation system, the vehicle can slow down for bends and off-ramps. Additionally, ProPilot Assist with Navi Link can also remain engaged for up to 30 seconds in traffic gridlock while the vehicle is stopped.

The QX60 gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Wi-Fi capabilities as standard features, while a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.8-inch head-up display are among the list of options. 

Photo by Manuel Carrillo III.

Thanks to the latest QX60 being 1-inch taller and wider than that of its predecessor, interior comfort is better than ever for up to seven occupants sitting under the standard panoramic sunroof. The front “zero gravity” seats are absolutely cosseting, and can now be equipped with nifty massage functionality. And there’s plenty of room to stretch out in the second row, which can come in a bench or captain’s chair variety. Though the captain’s chairs reduce overall occupancy to six, with that arrangement, you get a clever center console that can be easily removed to facilitate movement about the cabin.

The second row configured with captain’s chairs. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

It takes only the press of a button to tilt and slide the second row forward for third-row access, all without having to remove any child seats. Once you get all the way to the back, this Infiniti feels noticeably more accommodating. At a height of 5 feet, 10 inches, I found that my head lightly brushed against the headliner in the previous iteration’s last row. I now have full clearance.

The crossover’s new headlight design is inspired by piano keys. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

Behind the third row, there’s 14.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 41.6 cubic feet and 75.4 cubic feet with the third and second rows folded, respectively. These measurements are roughly equivalent to what was there before and are average for the segment. If you need to haul more, the QX60 can now tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped; an additional 1,000 pounds compared to last year’s offering.

There is 41.6 cubic feet of cargo space with only the third row folded down. 

Photo by Manuel Carrillo III.

Riding on the same basic architecture as the 2020 QX60, the ’22 keeps the current model’s 3.5-liter V-6. The power plant sends 295 hp and 270 ft lbs of torque to the front wheels as standard, or all four, optionally. However, the upcoming QX60 ditches the continuously variable transmission in favor of a nine-speed automatic, which plays a significant role in that increased tow rating.

The QX60’s 3.5-liter V-6 is responsible for 295 hp and 270 ft lbs of torque. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

With all these changes for 2022, will the QX60 provide a drastically different drive experience from past examples? That remains to be seen until we get the chance to jump behind the wheel later this year. As for pricing, expect to see that information by mid-July with sales expected to start in the fall.

SUVs have always combined functionality and versatility while remaining vehicles for self-expression. Yet in the last few years, the segment has become increasingly fragmented as it continually redefines itself with models that chase specific demographics—from the initial all-terrain, pseudo-military offerings to off-road sports cars to hip urban transports.  As for the 2022 Infiniti QX55, there’s no question that it falls solely in the latter category.

From the eight-way adjustable driver’s seat, foot planted on the throttle and the engine-mapping selection set to Sport mode, it’s easy to forget that the new Infiniti QX55 is not an agile two-seater, but rather a four-door crossover. At the same time, taking it on fire roads for a mountain-bike outing or kayak excursion seems a bit out of its wheelhouse. If there is a Goldilocks for this model, it’s most likely a musician or fine artist racing to the next gig or gallery showing. Then again, that’s who it’s designed for.

The 2022 Infiniti QX55 crossover coupe. 

Photo by Tim Sutton, courtesy of Infiniti.

Branded as a luxury crossover coupe, the QX55 takes inspiration from the marque’s pivotal FX model introduced nearly 20 years ago. Made through 2013, the FX became the brand’s definitive SUV and earned an ardent following.
“In the same way the FX provided an instantly recognizable silhouette and helped put Infiniti on the map, the QX55 is, in many ways, our modern-day provocateur,” Infiniti chairman Peyman Kargar recently told Robb Report. “The QX55 will appeal to younger buyers who are confident, fashionable, tech-savvy and place a heavy emphasis on style.”

The highly stylized QX55’s streamline exterior belies the roominess within. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

In a virtual briefing, Infiniti reps went a step further, clarifying that the intended target is someone single with no children, and who tends to be an early adopter with regard to everything from tech to travel. It’s a descriptor that I match only by lacking kids. Not that there isn’t plenty of room for them. The QX55 is deceptively spacious.
“The entire profile we tried to make as sleek as possible and, together with the side-window graphics, there’s that clean dynamic arch,” notes Taisuke Nakamura, Infiniti’s global head of design. “The combination of the silhouette and the graphical impression of the side window make the design impression much sleeker than what it is. This is one of the visual tricks to make the car look sportier, but still maintain enough room for the rear occupants and luggage space.”

The grille takes its design cue from the Japanese art of origami. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

Setting out on a solo coastal run, I didn’t take advantage of the 54.1 cubic feet of cargo space (26.9 cubic feet without folding the backseats), but was, instead, content to see how engaging the all-wheel-drive crossover’s handling dynamics would prove to be, as well as how seamlessly the tech, including the ProPilot Assist suite of driver aids, factored into the experience.
The pre-production example, painted Slate Gray and complemented by Monaco Red-and-Graphite cabin accents, had all the exterior and interior polish of one off the showroom floor, at least in appearance. But some of the driver assists in the tester, although intuitive enough to activate, did not perform consistently, and when they did, my confidence was not as high as with others used. The steering assist and lane centering functionality, in particular, lacked the precision expected.

Offered in three trim packages, the QX55 starts at $46,500. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

What was pleasantly unexpected was the precision the QX55 demonstrated while navigating canyon roads. The adroit handling is due, in part, to the four-wheel independent suspension and the marque’s Active Brake Limited Slip system, which enhances lateral athleticism by arresting the 20-inch wheels—dressed in all-season run-flat tires—individually, as needed.

Branded as a luxury crossover coupe, the QX55 builds on the foundation laid from the marque’s pivotal FX model introduced in 2002. 

Photo by Tim Sutton, courtesy of Infiniti.

What also impressed is the power delivery. Obviously, with 268 hp, the QX55 won’t have owners reserving track time, but it will advance the needle toward a more spirited commute. The innovative variable-compression, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine—making 280 ft lbs of torque—is mated to Infiniti’s Continuously Variable Transmission configuration and its shift-by-wire setup. This translates to just the right measure of punch when needed, even at slower speeds, and seemingly effortless response when paddle-shifting in manual. Four drive modes—Standard, Eco, Sport and the customizable Personal—further fine tune the dynamics.

The 268 hp, variable-compression turbo-charged four-cylinder engine produces 280 ft lbs of torque. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

The real highlight, however, is the cabin. From the prominent line flowing between the dash and center console, reminiscent of a calligrapher’s ink stroke, to the open-pore maple trim, the interior exemplifies Japan’s artful aesthetic throughout. And the two-touchscreen infotainment system, a nine-inch head-up display and the optional 16-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system rival the interior amenities found in models twice the price.

The console’s sweeping center line is reminiscent of a calligrapher’s ink stroke. 

Photo: Courtesy of Infiniti.

Starting at $46,500, the QX55 is presented in Luxe, Essential and Sensory trim packages, with our top-tier Sensory example fully optioned at $58,770. According to Infiniti, the entry-level model goes after Land Rover’s Range Rover Evoque and Audi Q5, while the premium versions have the BMW X4 and even the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe in their sights. After piloting the Japanese automaker’s new release, two points became clear: why there’s a demand for gentrified crossover coupes, and that Europe’s best should really watch their back.