Infiniti QX50

The second-generation QX50 arrived after a one-year break. With its sporty lines, LED headlights, large grille, and dual exhaust, the new model was a drastic departure from its predecessor and fit well with the rest of the Infiniti lineup. Not only did the five-passenger crossover get fresh styling, but the interior benefited from a more modern look, with a unique dual-screen infotainment system that could show Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™ on the top screen and Infiniti native features on the lower display. 

The QX50 came standard with the world’s first production engine featuring a variable compression ratio designed to enhance performance and efficiency. The 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine delivered 268 horsepower, and while that was more than adequate, the continuously variable transmission muted the performance with its slower response time. It also represented a considerable drop in performance compared to its predecessor. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available; AWD became standard in 2025.

While 2014 was the first year for the QX50 in Infiniti's lineup, it was primarily new in name only, replacing the EX37 as the brand adopted a new naming convention for all its vehicles. The idea behind this first QX50 (and the EX before it) was to combine the performance of a sport sedan with the utility of a crossover, and it worked well. Rear seats were somewhat cramped for taller passengers, but in 2016, the QX50’s wheelbase was extended, increasing cargo space and rear-seat legroom. Sporty lines on the outside fit well with the premium cabin that offered leather and wood trim, heated seats, voice recognition, a moonroof, and a seven-inch infotainment display with a Bose® premium audio system.  

Powering the first-generation QX50 was a powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine teamed with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard with the option of all-wheel drive, and with 325 horsepower on tap, the small crossover delivered outstanding performance with surprising agility that was indeed on par with a sport sedan.