The Infiniti QX50 I, specifically the 3.7 V6 AWD Automatic variant, represents Infiniti’s entry into the mid-size luxury crossover SUV segment. Produced from 2013 to 2015, this generation QX50 (internally designated as the J50 platform, though often referred to as the QX50 I to differentiate it from the later, completely redesigned model) aimed to provide a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. This particular configuration, featuring the 3.7-liter V6 engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, occupied a central position within the QX50 lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base models while remaining more accessible than potential future high-performance trims that never materialized.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX50 |
| Generation | QX50 I |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 V6 (330 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 265 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 176.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 330 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 361 Nm @ 5200 rpm (266.26 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ37VHR |
| Engine displacement | 3696 cm3 (225.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 309 l (10.91 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1175 l (41.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2043 mm (80.43 in.) |
| Height | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 149 mm (5.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the QX50 I 3.7 V6 AWD is the VQ37VHR engine, a 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine is a member of Nissan/Infiniti’s highly regarded VQ engine family, known for its smoothness, reliability, and strong performance. The “VHR” designation stands for “Variable Valve Timing and lift with high response.” This system utilizes continuously variable valve timing and lift on both the intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance across the rev range. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 330 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 361 lb-ft of torque at 5200 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted, sending power to a seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while not offering the lightning-fast shifts of some dual-clutch transmissions, provides smooth and comfortable gear changes, well-suited to the QX50’s luxury positioning. The all-wheel-drive system is primarily rear-biased, enhancing driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7-liter V6 and seven-speed automatic combination delivers brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 6.1 seconds, making it competitive within its class. While not a sports SUV, the QX50 I offers ample power for merging onto highways and overtaking. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort, with relatively conservative shift points. Compared to a manual transmission equipped QX50 (which was not offered in the US market for this generation), the automatic prioritizes smoothness over outright performance. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather, but doesn’t transform the QX50 into an off-road vehicle. The steering is light and precise, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The QX50 I 3.7 V6 AWD Automatic typically came well-equipped. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a rearview camera, a premium audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity. Optional extras included a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. Trim levels were relatively simple, with the 3.7 V6 AWD representing a significant step up from the base 3.5-liter V6 models in terms of features and performance.
Chassis & Braking
The QX50 I utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The braking system provides adequate stopping power for a vehicle of this size and weight.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the QX50 I for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong V6 engine. However, some noted that its styling was somewhat conservative compared to rivals. Fuel economy was also a point of criticism, as the 3.7-liter V6 is not particularly fuel-efficient. Compared to the base 3.5-liter V6 models, the 3.7 V6 AWD offered a noticeable performance improvement, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy. Compared to competitors like the Acura RDX and BMW X3, the QX50 I offered a compelling value proposition, particularly when considering its standard features and spacious interior.
Legacy
The Infiniti QX50 I 3.7 V6 AWD Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle. The VQ37VHR engine is known for its durability, and the seven-speed automatic transmission has generally held up well over time. Common maintenance items include routine oil changes, fluid flushes, and brake pad replacements. On the used car market, these QX50s represent a good value for buyers seeking a comfortable and well-equipped luxury crossover SUV. While not the most fuel-efficient option, the 3.7-liter V6 provides ample power and a refined driving experience, making it a desirable choice for those prioritizing performance and comfort.
