The Infiniti QX50, featuring the world’s first variable compression ratio engine, has debuted in LA!
The premium mid-size crossover segment just became a little more competitive with the world debut of the redesigned 2019 Infiniti QX50, which distinctly carries the flair and upscale austere we’ve come to associate with Infiniti. Not only is the new Infiniti a looker, it also has some innovative technology could work to its advantage.
“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
The QX50 is built on an all-new platform that favors a front-engine, front-wheel drive-based layout. Infiniti believes their new chassis will set benchmarks for refinement, rigidity and interior space in the compact premium SUV segment.
Infiniti QX50 gets a new heart
When Infiniti took the covers off its new mid-size crossover, they revealed a new engine for the QX50. It’s a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that showcased the brand’s new variable-compression technology. Dubbed Variable Compression-Turbocharged (VC-Turbo), the technology enables the compression ratio to differ from as low as 8:1 to 14:1. The higher ratio helps efficiency. The lower compression ratio helps the engine achieve 268 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Essentially, it combines the power of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of a diesel engine.
When equipped with the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo and Xtronic CVT transmission, the QX50 can achieve 27 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive model and 26 mpg for the AWD model. Those numbers make the QX50 more powerful and more fuel efficient than the BMW X3 xDrive30i and the Audi Q5. Coincidentally, those two crossovers are also powered by 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engines.
Infiniti QX50 features ProPilot Assist technology
ProPILOT Assist has integrated into the new QX50’s bag of driver assistance bag of tricks. It’s technology that helps drive the car in low-speed traffic jams or on long interstate commutes.
“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,” said François Bancon, product & programs VP, in a release.
The rear cargo space expands from 31.6 cubic feet to 37 cubic feet thanks to sliding rear sits. With the second row folded down, cargo space grows to 60 cubic feet. Enough space for at least three sets of golf clubs.
We have to wait a little longer before Infiniti announces pricing and expected delivery.
