The QX55 is Infiniti’s continued effort to rank up within the luxury cross-over domain. Inspired by a fastback tailgate design, the sharper and more contemporary looks help make the 2021 Infiniti QX55 stand out amongst the competition – both foreign and domestic. Powering this five passenger cross-over is a variable-compression turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which conveniently comes standard with AWD, 20” wheels, and advanced collision avoidance system.
Generally speaking, the 2021 QX55 supersedes the QX50 with a more enhanced and bolder exterior while retaining the same interior, powertrain and suspension. At a starting base price of $51,995, the 2021 QX55 is setting out to compete against the Mercedes-Benz GLC, and BMW X4 series.
A 2.0-liter variable compression turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuous variable transmission will be the only configuration across the entire QX55 lineup. Squeezing out an impressive 268 horsepower and 280 lb. ft of torque, the QX55 power output is more than adequate for most driving occasions and the variable compression technology virtually eliminates turbo lag that has plagued its performance in the past.
While the QX55’s got its peppy acceleration in place, its fuel economy falls a behind its competitors with an EPA rating of 22 and 28 mpg in the city and highway. The QX55’s All-Wheel-Drive system is also capable of delivering up to 50% of its engine torque to the rear wheels for added traction. Infiniti has also made upgrades to the power steering system that has helped make steering control more precise.
Given the 2021 QX55 shares the same powertrain as the QX50, the classical aggressive and rock-solid feel is still there. With the ability to transfer up to half of the engine power to the rear wheels, the QX55 feels confident and well-balanced especially around corners. While we do miss the iconic Infiniti exhaust tone, the QX55 still rings a sweet engine note during hard acceleration.
Most of the interior in the QX55 is transferred over from the QX50 with its iconic bubbly shaped contours, analog cluster, and dual display infotainment and climate control touchscreen located on the center console. The base LUXE trim comes equipped with faux leather seats while the Essential, Sensory trims get leather upholstered seats and an upgraded BOSE 16-speaker Performance Series Audio system.
A 7” infotainment touchscreen responsively handles all media needs and has compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Voice-activated navigation is available in the higher Sensory trim with the ability to render 3D graphics of surrounding buildings. A secondary touchscreen replaces all conventional tactile buttons to provide more seamless interaction for climate controls, media access and vehicle settings.
While the sloping fastback tailgate design gives the QX55 a sleeker exterior design, it inherently compromises headroom in the rear seats. Still, full-sized adults fit snugly in the back seat albeit with slightly less comfort. Rear cargo space can be increased with 60/40 rear folding seats.
Infiniti has taken the “don’t fix it if it’s not broken” approach by carrying over the best parts of the QX50, and as a result, you won’t find many new and innovative features other than a more handsome and contemporary exterior appearance.
