2015 Infiniti QX50

NEW FOR 2015:

Small, luxurious, and potent, Infiniti’s QX50 crossover enters 2015 effectively unchanged other than a shuffling of equipment levels. A moonroof, power tilt and telescoping steering column, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and Maple wood trim are removed from the standard equipment list, and together form the new Journey option package.

Based on the same platform that delivered the legendary G35 and G37 Coupe, and featuring the same ATTESA-ETS all-wheel drive system as standard, the QX50 offers a sporty, car-like driving experience that focuses on driver engagement. This setup defaults to a 100-percent rear-drive bias, but can deliver a torque split of 50-50 between the front and rear wheels when conditions dictate. As you’d expect from a motor that cranks out 325 hp, performance is brisk. Given that the QX50 now starts at less than $35,000, it’s something of a real performance bargain.

Although the QX50 skews on the small side of the segment in interior and cargo space, the cabin is well appointed with standard power-operated leather seats, an intuitive infotainment system. Fully loaded, it’s a tech-lover’s dream with full-speed radar cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.

The QX50 is offered in one trim with four option packages: Journey, Premium, Navigation, and Technology.

Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, LED brake lights, aluminum roof rails, proximity key with push button start, dual zone automatic climate control with cabin filter, power windows with driver/front passenger auto-up/down, dual overhead front map lights, rear seat reading lights, eight-way power driver seat, four-way power front passenger seat, leather upholstery, heated front seats, lacquer and aluminum interior trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, leather-wrapped shift knob, 7.0-inch display audio system with six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio, auxiliary and USB input, Bluetooth, satellite radio, tilt/telescopic steering column, trip computer, reverse camera, analog clock, rear spoiler, automatic headlights, dual power outside mirrors, puddle entry light under driver's door mirror, speed-sensing wipers, and dual chrome exhaust finishers.

The Journey package adds power sunroof, Maple wood trim, power tilt and telescoping steering column, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

Premium Package adds 19-inch wheels, adaptive bi-xenon HID headlights, driver's seat memory, entry/exit assist, exterior mirror with reverse tilt-down feature, driver’s head restraint with integrated coat hanger, stitched instrument cluster hood, eight-way power front passenger seat, driver seat power lumbar, power folding 2nd row seats, 11-speaker Bose premium audio, garage door opener, Around View Monitor, parking sensors, and advanced climate control system with auto recirculation and air purifier.

Navigation Package adds navigation, Bluetooth streaming audio, and DVD audio playback.

Technology Package adds full-speed radar cruise control, lane-departure warning and prevention, distance control alert, intelligent brake assist with forward collision warning, blind-spot warning.