The 2021 Infiniti QX50 brings premium styling, advanced tech, and a cutting-edge variable-compression engine to the luxury compact SUV segment. Designed for comfort and efficiency, the QX50 offers a quiet ride, upscale interior, and a balance of performance and practicality.
In this comprehensive review, we cover the 2021 QX50’s design, performance, features, trims, and real-world ownership insights.
Sleek and Elegant Exterior Design
A Premium Look That Stands Out
The QX50’s exterior styling is modern and upscale, blending aerodynamic lines with Infiniti’s signature design cues. It looks every bit the luxury SUV it aims to be.
Exterior features include:
- Double-arch grille and LED headlights
- Sculpted body with sharp character lines
- 19- or 20-inch wheels depending on trim
- Power rear liftgate (hands-free on higher trims)
- Panoramic moonroof standard on most trims
The QX50’s design is sophisticated without being flashy, ideal for those who want subtle elegance.
Engine and Driving Performance
Unique VC-Turbo Engine Offers Efficiency and Power
The 2021 QX50 is powered by a single but innovative engine choice: the world’s first mass-produced variable-compression turbocharged engine, offering a blend of performance and fuel economy.
2.0L VC-Turbo I4:
- 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive optional
Performance highlights:
- Smooth acceleration and responsive torque
- Drive mode selector (Standard, Sport, Eco, Personal)
- Balanced ride with a focus on comfort over sportiness
While not the most dynamic SUV in its class, the QX50 delivers refined, capable daily performance.
Interior Comfort and Features
Quiet, Comfortable, and Upscale
The 2021 QX50 impresses with its well-appointed interior and premium materials. The cabin is quiet, spacious, and tech-forward.
Interior features include:
- Dual-screen InTouch infotainment system (8-inch upper, 7-inch lower)
- Standard synthetic leather (leather and semi-aniline available)
- Power-adjustable front seats with memory function
- Heated front seats standard on most trims
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Sliding and reclining rear seats
Cargo capacity:
- 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats
- 64.4 cubic feet with rear seats folded
The QX50’s rear seat room and cargo flexibility are among the best in the luxury compact segment.
Technology and Infotainment
Smart Tech, Though Slightly Dated Interface
Infiniti’s InTouch infotainment setup offers a solid mix of features, though its dual-screen interface may feel less intuitive than some rivals.
Tech features include:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless Apple CarPlay standard)
- Navigation available on higher trims
- Wi-Fi hotspot (trial subscription)
- USB-A and USB-C ports throughout cabin
- Bose 16-speaker premium audio system (on upper trims)
While functional, the system lacks the slickness of newer single-screen setups from competitors.
Trim Levels and Configurations
Five Trims from Well-Equipped to Fully Loaded
Infiniti offers the 2021 QX50 in five trims: Pure, Luxe, Essential, Sensory, and Autograph—ranging from entry-level luxury to top-tier refinement.
| Trim | Key Features |
| Pure | Synthetic leather, dual screens, LED headlights |
| Luxe | Panoramic moonroof, heated front seats, power liftgate |
| Essential | Navigation, traffic sign recognition, 360° camera |
| Sensory | Leather seats, ambient lighting, upgraded audio |
| Autograph | Quilted leather, head-up display, unique two-tone interior |
The Luxe trim offers the best value, while the Autograph trim caters to buyers seeking maximum luxury.
Safety Ratings and Features
Strong Safety Suite with High Ratings
The QX50 comes with a generous suite of standard safety features and offers additional driver-assist tech on higher trims.
Standard and available safety features:
- Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist
- ProPILOT Assist (semi-autonomous driving tech)
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
Safety ratings:
- NHTSA: 5 out of 5 stars overall
- IIHS: Good scores in most categories, Top Safety Pick for certain trims
Fuel Economy and Everyday Use
Impressive Efficiency for the Class
Thanks to its VC-Turbo engine, the QX50 delivers strong fuel economy without sacrificing power.
EPA estimates:
- FWD: 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- AWD: 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
The fuel economy is competitive for a luxury compact SUV, especially considering the QX50’s size and power.
Long-Term Ownership and Reliability
Solid Build, Though Some Tech Glitches
The QX50 offers good long-term ownership appeal, with strong warranty coverage and respectable reliability.
Ownership insights:
- Infiniti’s 4-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
- 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain coverage
- Generally low maintenance costs compared to European rivals
- Some users report lag or bugs in the infotainment system
Overall, the QX50 holds up well with regular maintenance and software updates.
Is the 2021 Infiniti QX50 a Good Buy?
A Refined, Tech-Savvy Alternative in the Luxury SUV Market
The 2021 Infiniti QX50 blends comfort, technology, and innovation into a stylish package. While not the sportiest option, it shines in luxury, space, and practicality.
Reasons to consider the QX50:
- Class-leading interior space
- Advanced VC-Turbo engine
- Quiet, refined ride
- Strong safety and driver-assist features
- Good value in mid and upper trims
For drivers seeking premium quality without the European price tag, the QX50 is a smart, stylish choice.
FAQs About the 2021 Infiniti QX50
What engine does the 2021 QX50 have?
A 2.0L VC-Turbo inline-4 engine with 268 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.
Does the QX50 have AWD?
Yes, all-wheel drive is available on all trims.
How spacious is the QX50’s cargo area?
It offers 31.1 cu ft behind the seats and up to 64.4 cu ft with them folded.
Is the QX50 a good family SUV?
Yes, its roomy back seat, safety features, and ride comfort make it great for families.
Is the QX50 a luxury vehicle?
Yes, it competes with other compact luxury SUVs like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.