2019 Infiniti QX50: A Comprehensive Review of the Redesigned Luxury Compact SUV

After a brief hiatus in 2018, the Infiniti QX50 returned completely redesigned for the 2019 model year, bringing groundbreaking engine technology, a more spacious interior, and contemporary styling to the competitive luxury compact SUV segment. MotorVero had the opportunity to thoroughly evaluate this Japanese luxury contender during extensive test drives and competitive comparisons.

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Exterior Design: From Concept to Reality

The production QX50 stays remarkably true to the QX50 Concept and QX Sport Inspiration Concept that previewed it, adopting Infiniti's evolving design language seen on the Q50 sedan and Q60 coupe. The result is one of the most visually appealing vehicles in its class, with:

• A bold double-arch grille with mesh pattern
• Sharp LED headlights with distinctive signature lighting
• Muscular wheel arches housing standard 19-inch wheels
• An elegant roofline that maximizes interior space
• Available 20-inch wheels on higher trims for enhanced presence
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Interior Luxury and Space Optimization

Step inside the 2019 QX50 and you're greeted by one of the most thoughtfully designed cabins in the segment. Infiniti's interior designers executed a masterclass in material selection and ergonomics:

MotorVero's independent measurements confirmed the QX50 offers class-leading cargo space, delivering 7-23% more room behind the rear seats than key competitors like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.

Technology: A Mixed Bag of Innovation and Frustration

The QX50's technology suite presents both highlights and pain points that potential buyers should carefully consider:

Infotainment System

Infiniti carried over the dual-screen setup from the Q50 and Q60, consisting of:

• An 8-inch upper display for navigation and primary information
• A 7-inch lower touchscreen for climate controls and secondary functions
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While the system offers straightforward menus and pinch-to-zoom capability, several shortcomings became apparent during testing:

• The upper screen's angle makes it susceptible to glare and washout in sunlight
• Disparate resolution and response times between the two displays
• No standard Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (promised for future model years)
• Navigation only available on top Essential trim

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The available ProPilot Assist package combines several technologies:

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During testing on Los Angeles highways, ProPilot Assist performed competently in moderate traffic, though it requires more driver attention than Cadillac's Super Cruise system.

Revolutionary Engine Technology

The 2019 QX50's standout feature is its groundbreaking VC-Turbo engine, representing a significant leap forward in internal combustion technology:

This engineering marvel automatically adjusts its compression ratio to optimize power delivery and efficiency. The results speak for themselves:

These figures represent a substantial improvement over the previous QX50 and compare favorably against competitors. However, Infiniti recommends premium gasoline for optimal performance, while some rivals permit regular unleaded.

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Driving Dynamics and Handling

Behind the wheel, the QX50 presents a mixed driving experience that prioritizes comfort over sportiness:

Steering Feel

The optional Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system offers:

• Extremely light effort at low speeds (enabling one-finger steering)
• Adjustable weight through drive modes (Standard, Sport, Eco)
• Improved packaging and safety benefits

However, steering feedback remains numb even in Sport mode, which may disappoint driving enthusiasts. The standard hydraulic steering system provides slightly better feedback but still leans toward lightness.

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Ride Quality

The QX50's suspension tuning emphasizes comfort with:

• Composed handling over elevation changes
• Good isolation from road imperfections
• Slightly busy ride on rough surfaces with 19-inch wheels

Notably absent are adaptive dampers, which many competitors offer. The optional 20-inch wheels introduce more road noise and impact harshness without significantly improving handling.

Safety Features and Crash Protection

While the 2019 QX50 hadn't been rated by NHTSA or IIHS at launch, it offers a comprehensive suite of safety technologies:

• Standard: Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking (up to 50 mph)
• Available: Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning
• ProPilot Assist: Bundles adaptive cruise with lane centering (optional)

In MotorVero's Car Seat Check, the QX50 performed well with easy-to-access LATCH anchors, though stiff seat belt buckles presented challenges for booster seat installation.

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Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2019 QX50 offers three well-equipped trim levels with clear step-up features:

All-wheel drive adds approximately $1,800 to each trim level. Well-optioned Essential AWD models can approach $60,000, though this remains competitive against German rivals that often surpass $65,000 when similarly equipped.

Competitive Positioning

In MotorVero's Luxury Compact SUV Challenge, the QX50 impressed with its:

• Class-leading interior space
• Innovative engine technology
• Value proposition against European rivals

However, it fell short in areas like:

• Technology integration
• Driving engagement
• Brand cachet
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Final Verdict

The 2019 Infiniti QX50 represents a compelling choice for luxury SUV shoppers who prioritize:

• Spacious, well-appointed interiors
• Cutting-edge engine technology
• Value relative to European competitors

It makes less sense for buyers who want:

• The latest infotainment technology
• Sporty driving dynamics
• Brand prestige

With its revolutionary engine, handsome styling, and practical interior, the QX50 carves out a distinctive niche in the luxury compact SUV segment that warrants serious consideration.