2016 Infiniti QX50 Review: More Space, But Still Playing Catch-Up | MotorVero
2016 Infiniti QX50 Review: More Space, But Still Playing Catch-Up
At a Glance: 2016 Infiniti QX50
- Key Improvement: 3.2-inch longer wheelbase addresses cramped rear seats
- Powertrain: 3.7L V6 (325 hp) with RWD or AWD
- Class Competitors: Audi Q5, BMW X3, Lexus NX
- Starting MSRP (2016): $34,450
- Current Used Value: $18,000-$25,000
- --FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
The 2016 Redesign: Addressing Critical Flaws
Infiniti made strategic changes to the 2016 QX50, most notably stretching the wheelbase by 3.2 inches (from 110.2" to 113.4"). This modification directly targeted one of the model's most criticized aspects - its cramped rear seating area. While the exterior dimensions grew modestly (now 186.8" long vs. 183.3"), Infiniti's designers successfully integrated the additional length without disrupting the crossover's sporty proportions.
The front fascia received contemporary Infiniti styling cues, including:
- A more pronounced double-arch grille
- Redesigned LED headlight clusters
- Revised lower air intakes
These changes brought visual alignment with Infiniti's newer models like the Q50 sedan, though some critics argued the updates didn't go far enough to modernize the QX50's overall appearance.--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Interior: Premium Materials Meet Aging Design
Sliding behind the wheel reveals the QX50's greatest contradiction. The cabin features:
2016 Infiniti QX50 Interior Highlights
- Materials Quality: Soft-touch surfaces on 80% of contact points
- Seating: Standard leather with available premium quilted upholstery
- Ergonomics: 8-way power driver's seat with 2-position memory
However, the interior design showed its age in several areas:
- The infotainment system lacked modern features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Analog gauges looked dated compared to digital clusters in German rivals
- Small 7-inch display felt cramped in the premium segment
The much-improved rear legroom (now 35.3" vs. 32.1" pre-update) makes the QX50 genuinely usable for adult passengers, though the fixed backrest position and transmission tunnel hump remain compromises.
Driving Dynamics: A Silver Lining
Where the 2016 QX50 continues to impress is in its driving character. The 3.7-liter V6 delivers:
- 325 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque
- 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds (comparable to BMW X3 xDrive35i)
- Sport-tuned suspension available with Deluxe Touring package
Road tests reveal the QX50 maintains Infiniti's reputation for engaging handling, with:
- Precise steering (14.7:1 ratio)
- Minimal body roll (0.81g on skidpad)
- Confident braking (60-0 mph in 112 feet)
The standard 7-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth shifts, though it lacks the responsiveness of ZF units in German competitors. Fuel economy remains a weak point at 17/24 mpg city/highway for RWD models.
--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Market Position and Competitor Comparison
In the 2016 luxury compact SUV segment, the QX50 faced formidable competition:
| Model |
Base Price |
Horsepower |
Rear Legroom |
Tech Features |
| 2016 Infiniti QX50 |
$34,450 |
325 |
35.3" |
Basic |
| 2016 Audi Q5 |
$40,900 |
220 |
37.4" |
MMI with Nav |
| 2016 BMW X3 |
$38,950 |
240 |
36.0" |
iDrive 5.0 |
While the QX50 offered superior power at a lower price point, it couldn't match competitors in:
- Interior technology integration
- Brand cachet
- Fuel efficiency (most rivals offered turbo-4 options)
Ownership Experience and Reliability
According to MotorVero's analysis of long-term ownership data:
2016 QX50 Reliability Highlights
- J.D. Power Predicted Reliability: 3.5/5 (Average)
- Common Issues: Sunroof leaks, power seat motor failures
- Major Recall: Passenger airbag sensor (NHTSA 16V244)
- --THIRD CAR LIST HERE--
Owners praise the QX50 for:
- Strong resale value (retains 48% after 5 years)
- Comprehensive warranty (4yr/60,000mi basic)
- Low maintenance costs compared to German rivals
