The Infiniti QX60 I (L50), specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2016, represents Infiniti’s entry into the three-row luxury crossover segment. Positioned as a premium alternative to vehicles like the Acura MDX and Buick Enclave, the QX60 aimed to deliver a blend of comfort, technology, and a relatively efficient powertrain. This variant, featuring a 2.5-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), was produced from 2016 through September 2021. It served as a key offering within the QX60 lineup, appealing to families seeking a spacious and well-equipped vehicle. The “XTRONIC” designation refers to Infiniti’s branded CVT.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX60 |
| Generation | QX60 I (L50, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (250 Hp) Hybrid AWD XTRONIC |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.8 Nm/tonne |
| Electric motor power | 20 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 39 Nm (28.76 lb.-ft.) |
| System power | 250 Hp |
| System torque | 368 Nm (271.42 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 231 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.8 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 330 Nm @ 3600 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | QR25DER |
| Engine displacement | 2488 cm3 (151.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2105 kg (4640.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2602 kg (5736.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 497 kg (1095.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 453 l (16 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2166 l (76.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Length | 5095 mm (200.59 in.) |
| Width | 1961 mm (77.2 in.) |
| Height | 1742 mm (68.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2901 mm (114.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1669 mm (65.71 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 178 mm (7.01 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission CVT XTRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/65 R18; 235/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the QX60 2.5 Hybrid is the QR25DER 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes a supercharger and direct fuel injection to produce 231 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 243 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The supercharger provides immediate boost, mitigating turbo lag often found in smaller displacement engines. The addition of a 20-horsepower electric motor integrated into the transmission results in a combined system output of 250 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The XTRONIC CVT, a key component of this powertrain, is designed to provide smooth, seamless acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. Unlike traditional stepped automatic transmissions, a CVT utilizes a belt and pulley system to offer an infinite number of gear ratios within its operating range.
Driving Characteristics
The QX60 2.5 Hybrid with the XTRONIC CVT delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the powertrain provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The electric motor assists in low-speed acceleration, contributing to a responsive feel. The CVT, while smooth, can sometimes exhibit a “rubber band” effect, where engine RPMs rise quickly without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed, particularly during aggressive acceleration. Compared to the standard 3.5-liter V6 QX60, the hybrid variant offers slightly less overall power but significantly improved fuel economy. The CVT’s programming prioritizes efficiency over performance, resulting in a more relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2016-2021 QX60 2.5 Hybrid typically came standard with a generous array of features, including tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a rearview camera, and a premium Bose audio system. Infotainment was handled by an 8-inch touchscreen display. Available options included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The trim levels generally followed a progression from base to higher-spec models, with each tier adding more luxury and convenience features. The hybrid powertrain was often available on higher trim levels, such as the Premium and Signature editions.
Chassis & Braking
The QX60 utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, tuned for a comfortable ride. All-wheel drive is standard on the 2.5 Hybrid, providing enhanced traction in various weather conditions. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The vehicle’s weight of approximately 4641 lbs contributes to a stable and planted feel on the road. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti QX60 2.5 Hybrid was generally well-received by critics for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted the CVT’s occasionally unrefined behavior and the engine’s lack of outright power compared to some competitors. Compared to the V6-powered QX60, the hybrid offered a noticeable improvement in fuel economy – around 27.7 mpg combined versus the V6’s 21 mpg. The hybrid also commanded a premium price. Against rivals like the Acura MDX and Buick Enclave, the QX60 offered a compelling value proposition, particularly for buyers prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The QR25DER engine and XTRONIC CVT combination in the QX60 2.5 Hybrid has proven to be relatively reliable, although some owners have reported minor issues with the CVT over time. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the transmission. On the used car market, the QX60 2.5 Hybrid remains a popular choice for families seeking a well-equipped and fuel-efficient three-row crossover. Its blend of luxury, practicality, and relatively low running costs continues to make it an attractive option.
