IN BRIEF
INFINITI QX50: A PREMIUM SUV WITH WORLD-FIRST TECHNOLOGIES ON AN ALL-NEW PLATFORM
- VC-Turbo: The world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine
- All-new platform provides unrivalled refinement, rigidity and interior space
- ProPILOT Assist: Intuitive technologies support the driver and keep occupants safe and connected
- Distinctive proportions, with INFINITI's signature Powerful Elegance design
The new QX50 is the most compelling INFINITI to date. A premium mid-size SUV with world-first technologies, stand-out design and unrivalled interior space, on an entirely new platform.
“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.” Christian Meunier, INFINITI Global Division Vice President
VC-Turbo – the world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine
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.” Christian Meunier, INFINITI Global Division Vice President
The VC-Turbo engine is the world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine, transforming on demand. A breakthrough in combustion engine design, the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine adjusts its compression ratio to optimize power and efficiency. It combines the power of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel engine. A compelling alternative to diesel, it challenges the notion that only hybrid and diesel powertrains can deliver high torque and efficiency.
A multi-link system continuously raises or lowers the pistons' reach to transform the compression ratio. High compression ratios aid efficiency, while low ratios enable greater power and torque. The VC-Turbo offers any compression ratio between 8:1 (for performance) and 14:1 (for efficiency), maximizing driver control.
The engine delivers 268 hp (200 kW) and 280 lb ft (380 Nm) and fuel economy of 27 mpg (US combined, front-wheel drive; 26 mpg all-wheel drive). Front-wheel drive models offer a 35% improvement in fuel efficiency over the previous V6 gasoline QX50; all-wheel drive models offer a 30% improvement.
The engine is paired with a continuously-variable transmission (CVT), for seamless power delivery. Its infinite number of gears perfectly matches the engine's ability to transform.
All-new platform with predictive, predictable ride and handling
“The SUV crossover market is the number one premium segment globally. The QX50 is INFINITI's core model and offers premium buyers everything they could want from a vehicle of this type, thanks in part to the development of an all-new platform that is an ideal combination of roominess and packaging efficiency.” François Bancon, Vice President, Product and Programs
The QX50 is built on an all-new platform, featuring a front-engine, front-wheel drive-based layout. Engineered with flexibility of application in mind, the new platform sets new standards for refinement, rigidity and interior space in the compact premium SUV segment.
The platform's layout allows for higher levels of packaging efficiency than before, resulting in the QX50's ideal interior proportions for passengers and cargo.
The QX50 represents the first automotive use of SHF (Super High Formability) 980 MPa high-tensile steel, further strengthening the all-new platform. The high-tensile material can be molded into unprecedented shapes, saving weight and representing a torsional rigidity improvement of 23% over the current QX50. This rigidity allows the car to resist flex and vibrations, as well as reduce the level of noise transmitted to the cabin.
New ProPILOT Assist technologies support single-lane driving
“INFINITI's ProPILOT Assist technologies offer support when needed and add to the enjoyment and confidence of the driver. 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.” François Bancon, Vice President, Product and Programs
INFINITI's customers have stated their desire to remain a key element in the driving equation, so the brand's vision for autonomous driving is a step removed from the notion of fully-autonomous ‘driverless' motoring embraced by some carmakers.
Allowing drivers to retain ultimate control over their vehicle, the ‘co-pilot' function of INFINITI's autonomous drive support technologies empowers and gives confidence to the driver, and ‘delegates' more onerous driving tasks to the machine.
In the QX50, ProPILOT Assist technologies help the driver control acceleration, braking and steering during single-lane highway driving, placing them in total control. These technologies are designed to add to driving enjoyment and confidence, and are available at the push of a button.
Powerful exterior design, hand-crafted interior
Remaining true to the design of the QX50 Concept and QX Sport Inspiration, the QX50's aerodynamic exterior reinterprets INFINITI's distinctive Powerful Elegance design language and signature design cues for the SUV segment. It combines a confident stance with intelligent packaging, while deep character lines highlight the influence of human artistry in the design process.
At 1,679mm in height, the QX50 stands out on the road. Its elevated driver position maximizes visibility, for a clear view whether driving or parking. Aerodynamic efficiency is key to the QX50's design – the drag coefficient is reduced by 6% compared to the previous QX50. Its hood, bumpers, A-pillar, tailgate and enclosed underbody are all specially designed to encourage airflow over, around and under the vehicle, with minimal turbulence.
The unrivalled interior space, artistic application of high quality materials, and advanced craftsmanship make the cabin as welcoming and comfortable as it is flexible. Driver-centric, yet passenger-minded, the QX50 offers a package of technologies to enhance the driving experience. Its asymmetric layout and calm, connected ambience is designed to meet different needs of the driver and passengers.
The cabin provides ample space, with a sliding rear bench enhancing cabin and cargo flexibility and rear legroom. The trunk's volume expands from 31.6 cu ft (895 liters SAE) to 37 cu ft (1,048 liters SAE) as the rear bench slides fore and aft, growing to 60 cu ft (1,699 liters SAE) with the rear seats folded. With all seats in place, it accommodates three golf bags, or a stroller stored lengthways, with space for additional cargo. Under-floor storage areas allow owners to stow other items out of sight.
Technical Specifications
Body and chassis
| Five-door, five-seater SUV, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Four-cylinder variable compression ratio turbocharged engine driving the front or all wheels via continuously-variable transmission. |
Engine
| 2.0-liters VC-Turbo gasoline | |
|---|---|
| Type | Turbocharged four-cylinder in-line with variable compression ratio |
| Displacement (cc) | 1,997 (8:1 CR) ~ 1,970 (14:1) |
| Bore and stroke | 84.0 x 90.1 mm (8:1 CR) ~ 84.0 x 88.9 mm (14:1 CR) |
| Compression ratio | 8:1 ~ 14:1 (variable) |
| Max power | 268 hp (200 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| Max torque | 280 lb ft (380 Nm) @ 4,400 rpm |
| Valves | 16 |
| Fuel system | Direct injection and multi-port (variable) |
Transmission
XTRONIC continuously-variable transmission with manual shift mode
Performance
| 0-to-60 mph | 6.3 secs (AWD) / 6.7 secs (FWD) |
| Top speed (mph) | 143 (230 kph) |
Dimensions (in / mm)
| Overall length | 184.8 / 4,693 |
| Overall height | 66.1 / 1,679 |
| Overall width* | 74.9 / 1,903 |
| Wheelbase | 110.2 / 2,800 |
| Ground clearance | 8.6 / 218 |
| *excluding door mirrors |
Fuel economy (US mpg)
| FWD, combined | 27 |
| AWD, combined | 26 |