2018 Infiniti QX60: Refined, Spacious Family Hauler [Review]

OVERVIEW

Visually, the 2018 QX60 exterior displays Infiniti’s design language. This latest iteration emphasizes taut, athletic shapes and flowing lines. Up front, the double-arch grille is flanked by bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights. LED fog lights are standard, as are the LED turn signals that are incorporated into the side rearview mirrors. The double-wave hood meets a sharply angled windshield In profile, the crescent-cut D-pillar is a major element in the greenhouse design.

Moving aft, a chrome finisher surrounds the standard power lift-function hatch. A motion-activated power liftgate is available with the Deluxe Technology Package. A tinted glass moonroof with one-touch open/close, tilt feature and sliding sunshade is standard. Also available is a panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade. If you specify that option, the panoramic roof provides a light, airy environment for rear passengers. The front and rear fascias include flush-mounted sonar sensors that contribute to the QX60’s premium appearance.

Other QX60 exterior features include automatic high beams and large LED taillights. High Beam Assist is included with the Deluxe Technology Package.

The long wheelbase and short overhangs, along with the low roofline gives the 2018 Infiniti QX60 a drag coefficient of 0.33 (0.34 with 20-inch wheels). A front underbody spoiler, integrated rear spoiler and rear tire deflectors contribute to achieving zero lift across both front and rear axles for enhanced road holding.

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

The cabin of the Infiniti QX60 serves up an elegant ambience with fine, detailed craftsmanship. A new Rear Door Alert system can help remind QX60 owners to check the rear seat when they exit. And if there is something in the back seat, the QX60 uses a series of distinctive honks to alert the driver as they’re walking away from the vehicle.

Comfort and convenience items include a RearView Monitor, illuminated door sills, eight cup holders, six bottle holders. Infiniti QX60 also has 2nd row armrests and storage. Standard connectivity and entertainment features provided include an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with bluetooth audio streaming and a six-speaker stereo system. For those wanting a bit more punch, Infiniti also offers a 15-speaker Bose premium system. However, there is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support in the 2018 Infiniti QX60. Three additional USB charging ports are found in the cabin, one convenient for the second-row seating and two for the third-row seating. Infiniti Connection services include 24-hour roadside and emergency assistance, as well as scheduled maintenance notifications.

My test 2018 Infiniti QX60 was an all-wheel drive model. This mid-size luxury crossover starts at $45,100. However, as always, options and destination charges bumped final sticker price up to $60,670. Options included the $7,300 Deluxe Technology Package, a $2,150 Theater Package – which includes dual 8.0-inch rear seat screens, and a $2,900 Premium Plus package.

Parking is easier with the available Around View Monitor, with Moving Object Detection. It creates a “birds-eye” view on the center console giving drivers a clear picture of nearby hazards during low-speed maneuvers.

Other available technology includes Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Blind Spot Warning, Blind Spot Intervention, and Backup Collision Intervention.

Practicality

The QX60 falls in the mid range of Infiniti’s crossover SUV offerings. It utilizes a flat platform floor, which enhances interior space and flexibility. The 2nd row seating features a total adjustment of 5.5-inches fore and aft for versatile roominess and cargo carrying capacity. That allows legroom and cargo space to be adjusted between the 2nd and 3rd rows as needed. Access to the 3rd row is easy thanks to the wide door openings and long forward slide of the 2nd row seat.

The multi-mode 2nd row seat’s unique forward movement function overcomes the typical problem of having to remove a 2nd row child seat for entry or exit. The installed child seat moves forward with the 2nd row seat (40 percent side of 60/40 split-folding seat) without limiting 3rd row access. In addition, both 2nd and 3rd row seats are split folding (60/40 2nd row, 50/50 3rd row) and recline for greater occupant comfort.

PERFORMANCE

Power for the 2018 Infiniti QX60 comes from a 3.5-liter V6 engine with multi-point direct injection. The engine delivers 295 horsepower at 6,400 rpm along with 270 pound feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. That power is sent to all four wheels through a electronically-controlled CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

The 3.5 V6 delivers more than enough power to handle a full load of occupants and gear. Furthermore, the CVT is smooth and essentially seamless without the rubber-banding acceleration effect or droning noise. Handling characteristics lean to the sporty side with good input from the vehicle speed sensitive steering. The QX60’s ride quality is on a par with many luxury sedans.

TFLCAR’S TAKE

The 2018 Infiniti QX60 is a good all-around family transport. It’s suitable for the long family road trip, with plenty of space, comfort and reasonable power. If you’re looking to head in either direction on size, the QX60’s stablemates may be worth your consideration. On the smaller side, there’s the QX30 and QX50, while the QX80 offers a larger solution for your needs.

Check out the video below of the QX60 against its Japanese competitors from Acura and Lexus. Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views, and crossover reviews!

SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Infiniti QX60 AWD

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