2019 Infiniti QX50 Specs & 4 Major Features to Know About

Editor’s Note: Here’s our full 2019 Infiniti QX50 first drive review with driving impressions.

Los Angeles, California – In the luxury auto world, Infiniti is a relatively small player up against big names and volume sellers like BMW, Cadillac, and Lexus. But the Japanese brand is forging a new path with updated products like the all-new, nicely sculpted full-size QX80 SUV and the new Q60 sports coupe.

And while the company doesn’t officially claim a flagship vehicle, if there’s one product in their growing stable they’d completely stand behind it would be the new 2019 QX50 – Infiniti’s mid-size crossover in a highly competitive segment with the likes of the Lexus NX, Audi Q5, or BMW X3, to name a few.

As Infiniti’s VP of Globe Division, Christian Meunier, puts it: “The QX50 is the most important vehicle we have ever launched, and it embodies everything the brand stands for beautiful design, advanced technology, and empowering performance.  As a premium, mid-size SUV, it’s the right vehicle at the right time in one of the world’s fastest-growing segments.”

The QX50 concept debuted earlier this year, and this production model doesn’t veer

With the official world debut in Los Angeles recently – and looking almost identical to the concept version unveiled earlier this year – we had a chance to take a closer look.

1. VC-Turbo is the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine

The big news here is, well, a big one. Not just for the QX50 or even the brand itself, but across the automotive board. The QX50’s new 2.0L VC-Turbo powertrain is a breakthrough in combustion engine design – something the company says the motor world has been at for almost 20 years. And now, Infiniti has done it. Add to this, an expected best-in-class combination of four-cylinder power and torque, according to Infiniti.

Randy Parker, Infiniti Americas VP, gives his take, “Variable compression ratio technology represents a breakthrough in powertrain development. The QX50, powered by our VC-Turbo, is the first production vehicle ever to give drivers an engine that transforms on demand, setting a new benchmark for powertrain capability and refinement.”

Sounds cool. So what’s the hype? In tech speak, the VC-turbo combines the power of a 2.0L turbocharged gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel engine, adjusting its compression ratio to optimize power and efficiency.

In normal talk: it essentially offers an alternative to diesel – so you’re getting the high torque and efficiency renowned in diesel engines but in an everyday, gas-powered powerplant. All packaged neatly inside a mid-size crossover putting down 268-hp and 280 lb ft or torque. The new engine is paired to a CVT transmission.

Fuel economy

Infiniti has fuel figures at 26 mpg (US combined) for the AWD QX50. And they say the new 2019 will offer a 30% improvement in fuel consumption versus the out-going 2018 V6 model.

We’re looking forward to testing this out when it arrives early next year.

2. QX50 Interior gains advanced craftsmanship and more space

Sure, luxury vehicles all have nice interiors. But the QX50 does take it a step further – something we don’t normally see in this segment of smaller crossovers. Aside from the asymmetric layout in line with driver needs while keeping the passenger in mind, the materials are high quality. The seats have that cross-stitched design similar to a high-end purse – we’re told.

New Dimensions

The QX50’s redesign now includes segment-leading cabin space. Sitting inside, the cabin definitely feels expansive considering its size. In the back, the rear bench slides fore and aft, growing to 60 cu ft (1,699 litres SAE) with the rear seats folded, and trunk cargo volume opens up for 2019 from 31.6 cu ft (895 litres SAE) to 37 cu ft (1,048 litres SAE).

We don’t care much for cu ft or capacity in litres. But the QX50 is bigger – so more golf clubs in the back. 3 bags, to be exact, or a stroller stored lengthways. And that’s a good thing. For extra out-of-sight storage, the under-floor area is the place to stow those valuables.

The driver position now sits higher for a clear view and better visibility; now at 1,679mm in height, to be exact. And drag coefficient is reduced by 6% compared to the previous QX50.

Specs below:

New ProPILOT Assist technology

The new QX50 will also benefit from Nissan/Infiniti’s ProPILOT Assist – a new tech supporting single-lane driving, helping the driver control acceleration, braking and steering during one-lane highway trips.

Infiniti adds, “our intention is to empower the driver and enhance feelings of pleasure behind the wheel, not to remove the driver from the equation. The brand new QX50 will set a new benchmark in the biggest premium segment.”

3. Completely redesigned QX50 for 2019

Infiniti calls it their “signature Powerful Elegance design.” We just call it super sleek and stylish with beefy proportions in line with its larger QX80 and QX60 siblings.

Compared to last year’s version, the new model looks less skimpy with more hair on its chest; the front end especially is now much bolder with a stout look, standing loud and proud with aerodynamic lines and overall confidence.

Here are three main styling updates:

Distinctive Front Fascia: The front of the QX50 received a bold and distinctive grille design, featuring a double-arch pattern and a prominent Infiniti emblem at the center. The grille was flanked by sleek LED headlights with a distinctive signature LED daytime running light pattern.

Sculpted Body Lines: The vehicle’s body showcased sculpted and flowing lines that added depth and visual interest. These lines not only improved aerodynamics but also contributed to the QX50’s overall elegance.

Floating Roof Design: The 2019 QX50 adopted a “floating” roof design, achieved through the use of blacked-out pillars and a contrasting roof color, which added a touch of modernity and sophistication to its profile.

4. New Platform

This all sits on the QX50’s new platform for 2019, featuring a front-engine, front-wheel drive-based layout. Infiniti says the new platform “sets new standards for refinement, rigidity, and interior space in the compact premium SUV segment.”