This new QX50 has a dramatic front fascia that allows air to naturally flow over a sleek, coupe-like shape.
This new front-end design integrates the LED daytime running lights for a signature look and increased visibility, plus Xenon HID headlights, which will turn and point the light where you steer.
The lighting technology helps you to focus ahead, even when the road ahead is filled with darkness, shadow, or fog.
The 360-degree Around View Monitor has four cameras, giving you a complete and perfect view of everything around you. It can even compose an overhead view as if there is a single bird’s-eye view camera.
This Around View Monitor works with a front and rear sonar system that alerts you by emitting a beeping tone, and displays an icon on the rearview monitor when approaching a detected object near either bumper. This gives a feeling of control when your life may seem out of control.
The 3.7 L V6 engine features Variable Valve Event and Lift technology to achieve a balance between performance and efficiency. It cranks out 325 hp at 7,000 rpm and 267 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm. The smooth-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission adjusts and responds to your movement. This combo gives you a cool 20 mpg average for city and highway combined. All this raw power is put down onto the pavement through large 18-inch 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels.
The 113.4-inch wheelbase (an increase of 3.2 inches from the previous model) takes all this power and positions the QX50 for an attractive athletic stance. The 300 W Bose Premium Sound System has 11 high-quality speakers, including two subwoofers, delivering sound in sweet depth and with tremendous clarity. It features SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth streaming, and USB port with iPod interface, so whether you play CDs, tune in to radio, or stream your music, you are in for a heck of a good listening experience.
The 7-inch color information display housing camera display, plus the Infiniti Intelligent Key with illuminated push button ignition, are just a “little bit” of the technology found in the cabin.
Speaking of the cabin, the QX50 has added 4.3 inches in rear leg room, providing more rear passenger comfort and making it easier to get in and out.
The second row of the QX50 can effortlessly rise with a touch of a button located inside the cargo area (18.6 cu. ft. of storage) or on the center console. This really makes loading and unloading easy.
Inside, leather-appointed seats, with a heated 8-way power driver’s seat and a heated 4-way front passenger’s seat, along with a power sliding tinted glass moonroof make for a wonderfully comfortable drive.
Driving the QX50 was a pure joy. The speed-sensitive steering gives you more power-assist at lower speeds and less at the higher speeds for a great feeling of connectivity. Intelligent all-wheel drive adjusts for better traction, imparting a sporty response.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $34,450.
There was a Technology Package ($2,750) that complemented a full line of standard safety and security features. Blind Spot Warning, Distance Control Assist, and Forward Collision Warning are well worth the price. However, with so much road construction and blended highway lanes, I found the Lane Departure Warning to be annoying and difficult to turn off.
Warranty
4-year/60,000-mile Basic Limited Warranty
6-year/70,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
7-year/Unlimited mileage Corrosion Limited Warranty
The 2016 QX50 has yet to be rated under the U.S. government’s 5-Star Safety Ratings Program.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or by email at [email protected]
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