The Infiniti QX50 is most well known for its consistency in daily drivability and sporty luxuriousness. The 2023 model year brings only a few changes to this crossover-SUV, which was last revamped in 2019. It’s still a splendid vehicle.
Changes for the 2023 QX50 include a new Sport trim to replace the blacked-out Essential trim. Several other features, like a wireless charging pad, are now standard as well. Unchanged is the QX50’s powertrain, large cargo space, and quiet highway ride.
There are four trim levels for the 2023 Infiniti QX50, starting with the Pure and running through the Luxe, Sport, Sensory, and Autograph. Each is powered by a well-balanced 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that outputs 268 horsepower. That mates with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that, frankly, is the biggest downer for this SUV. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is an option on most trims. AWD is standard on the Autograph trim.
Drive quality in the 2023 Infiniti QX50 is very good, with responsive steering and smart handling. Acceleration is generally good, if steady, but sometimes around town driving can be a bit jerky and unresponsive as the CVT attempts to figure out what to do with inputs. At all times, though, the QX50 is quiet and comfortable.
Standard features on the low-priced base model are plentiful and include LED headlamps, 19-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone climate, and two touchscreens for infotainment. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard as is a wireless charging pad and keyfob-enabled remote engine start. Adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, lane-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist are also all standard equipment on the QX50. As are several other driver’s aids like blind-spot intervention, rear automatic braking, and automatic high-beams.
Going up in trim levels only improves things with more content. Larger wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, better audio, and surround-view cameras are all things found as trim packages climb. Several of these things are also available as individual or package upgrades ala carte.
The 2023 QX50 is a two-row SUV positioned below the larger QX60, but don’t let its low price (starting at $41,500) fool you into thinking is less. This is a value-driven luxury crossover despite its long list of standard features. The two-screen infotainment sees some improvement to be more useful than it was before, but is still not as good as what might be found elsewhere. Yet its large cargo space, very comfortable seating all around, and beautiful interior likely make up for that for most.
The 2023 Infiniti QX50 is a compelling choice in the small, two-row luxury SUV segment. Those not needing a sports car hiding in a crossover body or wanting the flashier nameplates of some rivals will likely find the Infiniti to be a great choice.
This review first published on DriveModeShow.com.
