Second Look: 2022 Infiniti QX60 SUV

The Infiniti QX60 shines among luxury SUVs.

It doesn’t happen that often, but sometimes a manufacturer delivers a follow-up of the same model year vehicle. That’s twice as nice and allows us to take a deeper dive.

In 2014, we evaluated four different versions of the then heavily updated Jeep Grand Cherokee. So, why multiple evaluations for the same model? Usually, the manufacturer wants to make certain that the news is spread far and wide.

Our most recent test driver was the 2022 Infiniti QX60. We drove it last fall and that immediately followed an on-site media debut in California. It offered a “real world” driving experience while supplying us with first-hand product details from the manufacturer. Still, we cherish the week-long at-home evaluations that take us on familiar roads and at a pace we set.

2022 Infiniti QX60

Infiniti launched the QX60 in 2014 to critical acclaim. The model underwent only modest changes through its seven-year run. By then, it seemed outclassed by most competitors.

After taking 2021 off, Infiniti returned with a new QX60. This one is more stylish, a better performer, and simply befitting of the Infiniti name.

Prices range from the upper 40s to low 60s throughout four trim choices: Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and Autograph. Our Sensory tester with all-wheel drive eclipsed the $60,000 mark. As before, the QX60 seats seven.

As a follow-up, we will call out four of the more outstanding features of this handsome, luxury SUV.

Styling Verve

Infiniti has a styling flair going, but that’s been evident throughout its three-decade history. Early on, the marque delivered a succession of handsome sedans and coupes. As utility vehicles came into being, the flair went there. A personal favorite is the FX35, a handsome and sporty SUV that looks and drives like a car.

Soon after transitioning to its current naming convention in 2014, Infiniti’s design changed with it. But it has always been evolutionary, building on the successful early models that customers loved.

Even so, there was room for improvement and the 2022 QX60 delivers. Most notably, the design is more sweeping than before, with luscious signature lines and body sculpting from bumper to bumper. The front fascia is somewhat bolder too with honeycomb detailing on the grille, lower intake, and side pockets. A muscular hood is an Infiniti attribute as well. With this model, it includes side kinks for added impact.

Chrome-like touches are evident around the body, depending on the trim. Our only gripe was the trim pieces surrounding the exhaust ports. They seemed bolted on and stood out against the rest of the rear.

Potent Powertrain

One thing is constant with the current-generation QX60. And that is its engine. A 3.5-liter V6 sends power to the front or all four wheels. It makes 295 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.

What did change was the transmission. Gone is the previous continuously variable automatic in favor of a 9-speed automatic. While the previous transmission was a capable workhorse, the new unit is simply better. Sense the transmission finding the right cog for the moment and enjoy its crisp shifts. We think the powertrain combination in the Infiniti QX60 is one of the best in its segment.

Quiet, Luxurious Cabin

We admit that we often use our cabins to write, including these reviews. Most cars offer a certain level of solace while providing the opportunity to verify the usual special touches found throughout.

But the QX60 is next-level. As in comfortable beyond what might be expected. Our test model was dressed in plush leather seats with heating and cooling controls. It also came with a massaging function, however, the settings are limited. Nevertheless, we found the second-row thrones were nearly as comfortable as the first-row seats.

We’d be remiss if we did not remark about the solitude. When parked, the QX60 is nearly as tight as a sarcophagus, offering a firm separation from the outside world. On the road, the noise level is low except whenever a semi-trailer passes or a hot-rodder works his magic. Further, the ride is comfortable, especially around town.

As Versatile as They Come

We confess that some utility vehicles are a bear when it comes to accessibility. The Infiniti QX60 is not one of them.

Indeed, Infiniti supplies buttons on the sides of the seats that move each one forward with just one touch. This is especially apparent in the second row as those seats tilt and slide forward with ease. No fighting with the seat with a child in hand and that is a design feature we like. Importantly, moving the seat back in place is a one-hand proposition too.

Folding down the seats fully supplies much more cargo space than the standard 14.5 cubic feet. Drop the third row and that space mushrooms to 41.6 cubic feet. Lastly, find 75.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

Infiniti QX60 Departing Thoughts

Most likely, we had our last go-around with the 2022 model. The QX60 is extremely comfortable for four and fits three more “back there” as needed. This SUV may be the best of the four-pack Infiniti sells or at least it is the newest and wears its duds well.

2022 Infiniti QX60 Specifications

Specifications supplied by the manufacturer. Statistics assembled by Tom Keegan.

See Also — The Infiniti QX80 is a Full-Size Luxury SUV With a Strong Price Point

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