Plenty of R&D bring bold upgrades to Infiniti QX60
Infiniti says it invested 1.5 million hours in research and development for its redesigned 2022 QX60. It even put the three-row midsize SUV on hold for one year while engineers and designers worked on the long overdue renewal.
A close-up look reveals the hours were well spent. Zero-gravity seats (developed by NASA) offer exceptional comfort, envelop the body and can massage it every 11 minutes during a long trip.
A new infotainment system is much improved and uses a bigger 12.3inch touchscreen with crisp resolution. A second screen houses a digital gauge display, and there’s an available 10.8-inch head-up display to boot.
Infiniti’s flagship is easy on the eyes, too. It’s wider with wraparound glass at the rear. Up front is a broad black-mesh grille, framed by chrome bands, with fake air intakes below. Black cladding runs across the sides and arches around 20-inch alloy wheels.
The QX60 also is first in the lineup to offer two-tone exteriors, with an available black roof to contrast the body hues.
The retuned suspension gives it a stiffer ride for a luxury vehicle, but better handling and stability on corners. It combs over rough patches or speed bumps without drama, too. A reengineered steering system adds feel and precision over the last model.
A new all-wheel-drive system sends half the torque to the rear wheels when slippage is detected on wet or icy roadways.
On the highway, it’s stable and comfortable but passing punch is lacking. Hit the paddle shifters for
better response. Meanwhile, passengers will enjoy a quieter ride thanks to thicker glass and more sound-deadening materials.
Five drive modes make adjustments to engine throttle, suspension and steering for different conditions. They include Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow and Personal for tailoring the drive dynamics.
The cabin underwent needed improvements, too. There is seating for up to six with the captain’s chairs, seven with the base trim’s bench seat. The three rows are uniquely arranged theater-style with each row raised a bit for better visibility.
The second row seats have ample headroom and legroom, are heated and slide and recline. The third row lost two inches of legroom from the previous
model and is best left for kids.
Infiniti’s new infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and there’s a wireless charger to easily keep the phone juiced. A premium 17-speaker Bose audio system is standard on the higher trims, the Sensory and Autograph.
There are plenty of nooks and crannies for family stuff inside. The cargo area comprises a snug 14.5 cubic feet with all seats in use. Fold the third row for a total of 41.6 cubes, and both rows for 75.4 cubes, and it becomes near the top in its class. It also has some underfloor storage. Access is made easy with an automatic and motion-activated lift back.
Finally, the QX60 is loaded with advanced safety and driver-assist features, including forward and rear automatic emergency braking, lane departure and blind spot warning and intervention. Infiniti’s ProPilot Assist includes Intelligent Cruise Control with speed and steering assists.
The competition is brisk, but Infiniti made some great strides in style and comfort, and it’s well priced vs. its foes. Welcome back, QX60.