If there is something very familiar with this 2017 Infiniti QX60 premium family utility vehicle, it could be that you remember its cousin we reviewed not too long ago in the form of the Nissan Pathfinder. And like the Pathfinder, the QX60 receives some nice upgrades for this year model as well.
2017 Infiniti QX60/Images courtesy Infiniti
Kicking things off in the enhancement department would be the new direct-injected 295hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine. This is an increase in power of 30 ponies and 22 lb. ft. of torque (now 270). As will nearly all Nissan/Infiniti models, the new QX60’s engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is sport tuned and electronically controlled so when placed into sport mode it mimics that of a traditional gearbox in providing shift points. Drivers can use the Infiniti Drive Mode Selector to choose from Standard, Sport, Eco, and Snow settings to optimize their time behind the wheel depending on driving conditions.
The 2017 QX60 is still offered in both front- and all-wheel drive formats with our tester arriving in the former, as most consumers will have theirs outfitted. Should one opt for AWD, Infiniti delivers its Intelligent All-Wheel Drive technology where power can be sent to any one wheel that is providing the most traction depending on slippage that is sensed. The premium midsize SUV also received styling and chassis improvements last year that not only freshen its looks but bring a slightly more dynamic driving experience. Infiniti engineers added new shock absorbers and spring units, slipped on new tires, and gave the speed sensitive electric power steering quicker response and tighter ratios. The improvements are subtle but they are there and they are noticeable.
As with the new Pathfinder, the Infiniti gets new design appointments front and rear that bring it in line with the latest family styling as well as the newest technology. There are flush-mounted sonar sensors in the new front and rear bumpers for stylish functionality and at the rear, the new QX60 gets a motion-activated power liftgate for added convenience. The Infiniti arrives with seating for up to seven over three rows, just as the Nissan does. And as with the Pathfinder, that third row – while convenient – is a bit of a tight fit for adults but perfect for the rambunctious kids in your life.
Inside we find the new Infiniti InTouch infotainment technology that integrates navigation, convenience, security, and entertainment into one instrument panel-mounted system. Drivers see a new 8-inch color vehicle information display and our tester arrived with the optional dual 8-inch color second-row monitors that are mounted in the rear of the front seat headrests. As always, there is an abundance of fine leather and wood craftsmanship inside the QX60 along with all of the creature comforts one would come to expect.
In addition to the Theater package on our tester, Infiniti also added the Premium and Premium Plus packages as well as Deluxe Technology to give us a QX60 that was loaded to the teeth. This meant Bose Cabin Surround premium 15-speaker audio system, additional power features to front seating and controls, heated steering wheel, roof rails, remote engine start, illuminated kick plates, wireless headphones, DVD player, HDMI port, additional power ports including 120V outlet, second- and third-row moonroof, advanced climate control system, ventilated front seating, intelligent cruise control, lane departure warning, Around View monitor with Moving Object Detection and stylish 20-inch/15-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. This is all in addition to predictive forward collision warning, backup collision intervention, lane departure prevention, distance control assist, and hill-start assist.
Infiniti uses the motto of “Empower the Drive” and with all of these amenities added to the lengthy list of standard features, one certainly feels empowered when behind the wheel. That empowerment does come with a small price as the 2017 QX60 starts at $43,100 with this tester arriving with a final window sticker of $58,245. Fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. All-wheel drive will add about $1,800 to your QX60 should you go that route.
For those shopping for a premium three-row midsize SUV, the 2017 Infiniti QX60 should be on your list. Thanks to the upgrades over the past two years the model is as competitive as ever and offers a very good ride and drive experience while also being one of the safest on the road. The creature comforts are over the top and the materials wrap you in luxury whether you are going across town or across the country. Think of the QX60 as the on-road equivalent to “glamping.”