Now on its second generation, the Infiniti QX60 seven-seater luxury crossover picks up where its predecessor left off with new and exciting ways to show to its owners that it can be the appropriate associate they need, although it's difficult to explain why. Time for some X files.
Priced at 46,850 US Dollars plus additional costs, this seven-seater Infiniti SUV is cheaper to own than its big brother, the almighty but aged QX80. It's cheaper to own than the Lincoln Aviator as well, making it the bargain luxury seven-seater SUV of 2021. So, what do you expect from the all-new QX60, you may ask?
Starting with the design, the new model stays faithful to the Monograph Concept it was based on, although it's hard to describe what the exterior is all about. The front is distinctively Infiniti while the rearview basically feels like the strongman version of the Toyota Corolla Cross but with the faux exhaust tips on the rear bumper for foolery purposes. Correct, the rear bumper on the new model dons the controversial faux exhaust tips, which is worth ruining speedo boys' heads for sure. Whatever the reason, even if you squint your eyes hard enough to get a clear look, this luxury crossover does has a strong image compared to the old QX60.
The interior has been renewed for the second generation, meaning it now sports a longer touchscreen and touch panels below the screen some would find it challenging on their first impression. Despite its minimalist stance, it still has dials for the aircon and volume for added convenience. You can toy around with its gadgetry as much as you want while you are busy waiting for your take-out order at the parking lot. In terms of spacing, it's surprisingly roomier and more comfortable than the previous model. Best of all, all three rows have USB charging ports so you can plug in your favorite devices while on the go, whether or not in your sweet spot.
The QX60's 3.5L V6 petrol engine has been revamped for the second generation so that now, it produces 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. of torque, and thanks to its idling stop feature, it has a 23MPG combined fuel economy. Best of all, the previous model's CVT gearbox has been replaced by a 9-speed AT with paddle shifters, making this crossover more engaging for the drivers with less drama.
In terms of dynamics, the new QX60 feels nicer to drive than the previous model, although it feels mild and spartan for a full-size crossover. Slap it with the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and it feels prepped to take on the elements, although the lack of proper offroad capabilities means it's not going to be a walk in Central Park.
Tackling the challenges of the new normal, the all-new QX60 is equipped with standard Rear Automatic Braking, Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning (with haptic steering wheel alert), High Beam Assist, among many others. With additional features such as ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, and Smart Rear-View Mirror, the new QX60 is future-proof to take on almost everything.
The all-new QX60 is starting to take shape as a full-sized crossover for the established family men and thanks to its rather great upgrades, it feels like it's the best QX60 ever made but with the drama involved in it. Like it or not, it's proof that it's going to be your next appropriate associate for the road.
Photo: Infiniti