Monday, October 3, 2016

2016 Infiniti QX50: A Roomier And Longer Premium Compact


Highlight: Rear seat occupants will be welcomed by the additional room in the rear seating area.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $43,535 (base model $34,445)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; LED Daytime Running Lights; a stability control system; a rearview camera; a traction control system; and a tire pressure monitoring system


Standard Equipment (Base Model): 18-inch wheels; rear wheel drive; leather seats; power heated front seats; power moonroof; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a dual zone automatic temperature control system; power adjustable heated outside mirrors; and a push button keyless ignition system

Options:
Technology package: a radar-activated cruise control system; an electronic blind spot system; a lane departure warning system; a forward collision braking system; aluminum brake/gas pedals;

A deluxe touring package: 19-inch wheels; a high intensity discharge headlight system; Xenon headlights; an adaptive forward collision braking system; 8 way power passenger front seat; a coat hanger on driver’s seat headrest; and premium interior stitching

Premium package: a 11-speaker Bose with CD/DVD player; an advance climate control system; dual memory system for driver’s seats; entry assist for driver’s seat and steering wheel; a power operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; and aluminum roof rails

Premium plus package: an Infiniti navigation system; a 7-inch infotainment screen; and an around view monitor

Illuminated kick plates
  
Other Trim Level: Only One.       
  
Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD with satellite radio

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

USB Connectivity: Yes

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 6 years or 70,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 3.7-liter, 6-cylinder/325-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage:
17-city/24-hwy


What’s New: For the 2016 model year, Infiniti has stretched-out the brand’s entry-level compact crossover, offering more legroom for rear passengers due to its longer wheelbase. Also the vehicle’s price has been lowered and only two trims are being offered.

The automaker is also touting its barely noticeable exterior touch up.

Why: The performance-oriented Infiniti is available in a rear wheel drive or an all-wheel drive configuration. In addition to loads of cargo space, when the rear seat is folded, this entry level compact crossover has one of the most powerful engines in the segment. The driver oriented vehicle offers an engaging driving experience that seems to escape many of today’s crossovers.

The redesign 2016 QX50 offers more rear cargo room due to its longer wheel base. Also the iconic looking crossover, with its easy to use infotainment center, offers a lower starting price than the outgoing model.

And the redesign QX50 offers the latest comfort and safety features that keeps the vehicle competitive with others in the segment.

But: The vehicle requires premium fuel and lacks the option of a fuel efficient 4-cylinder engine. And unlike most of the crossovers that have a higher ride height, the QX50 seems more like a sporty wagon that is disguised like a crossover. In 2017, Infiniti is introducing a vehicle with a higher ride height that shares a platform with the Mercedes-Benz GLA.


Verdict: For those who adored the Japanese styling of Infiniti’s old G-series, they’ll be enamored with the roomier performance-oriented QX50, which basically is off of the same platform. The premium vehicle still offers the same classic styling with loads of optional features available reassuring buyers this is a competitive luxury compact crossover. It’s no wonder why this tight-handling vehicle recently had a record sales month.


Competition: Audi Q3; BMW X1; Buick Encore; Land Rover Discovery Sport; Lexus NX; Mercedes-Benz GLA; and Volvo XC60

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