I recently road tested a 2019 Infinity QX50 Essential compact luxury sport utility vehicle and came away very impressed.
Off the top the QX50 — all new for 2019 — features beautifully sculpted exterior sheet metal. It conveys style and competence. Honestly, my tester looked quick just standing on its stylish, option 20-inch alloy wheels.
My tester came with three-zone cabin climate control, quilted leather seats, wood interior trim, heated steering wheel and a head’s up display. At first glance, the QX50s two-screen infotainment system looks sexy but proved ultimately disappointing compared to others. The vehicle at this trimline comes with a great-sounding 16-speaker Bose audio system.
One downside is that Infinity chose not to include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in the vehicle. Infinity provides a class-leading and generous amount of cargo space.
Under the hood, the QX50 boasts an unusual power plant in its variable compression, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which theoretically increases mileage while also increasing performance. This unusual 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder engine generates 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a smooth continuously variable automatic transmission.
Out on the road, I found the QX50 very comfortable, easy to drive and a relatively quiet ride. General handling, however, won’t necessarily thrill most drivers. This vehicle has a nice supply of passing power with a minimum of turbo lag that will allow you to merge onto the freeway with ease.
The QX50 competes mainly with the BMW X3, the Volvo XC60, the Audi Q5 and the Cadillac XT5. All are worth checking out during your purchasing deliberations. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for my QX50 (in the “Essential AWD” trimline) came in at $59,585.
Fuel economy in the QX50 is excellent and class-leading. My tester was EPA rated at 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
Final verdict: I found the QX50’s to be thoughtful, well made and pleasant to drive. When shopping for an urbanized SUV — or, in this case, a CUV (compact utility vehicle), the QX50 should rate a place high on your list.
Jeff Mitchell is a South Bay freelance writer.
