The Infiniti QX60 (L50) 3.5 V6, produced from 2013 to 2015, represents the first generation of Infiniti’s three-row luxury crossover SUV. Positioned as a premium alternative to mainstream family haulers, the QX60 aimed to deliver a blend of comfort, style, and technology. It was a key model for Infiniti in the North American market, where demand for mid-size luxury SUVs was – and remains – strong. The L50 QX60 was built on the D platform, shared with the Nissan Pathfinder, but distinguished itself through unique styling, a more upscale interior, and a focus on a refined driving experience. This specific variant, equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), served as the primary powertrain offering throughout its production run.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX60 |
| Generation | QX60 I (L50) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (265 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 336 Nm @ 4400 rpm (247.82 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ35DE |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1961 kg (4323.26 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 447 l (15.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 74 l (19.55 US gal | 16.28 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 4989 mm (196.42 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 308×16 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| 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 3.5 V6 is the VQ35DE 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine, a member of Nissan’s highly regarded VQ family, is known for its smoothness, reliability, and respectable power output. The VQ35DE features a 60-degree V-angle, aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) on both intake and exhaust valves. This system optimizes valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across the engine’s operating range. Fuel delivery is handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 265 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. Paired with the VQ35DE is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides a virtually infinite number of ratios within its range, allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient point. This contributes to smoother acceleration and improved fuel economy, although it can sometimes feel less responsive than a conventional automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The QX60 3.5 V6 with the CVT delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving situations, with the CVT effectively utilizing the engine’s torque to provide smooth, linear power delivery. However, it doesn’t offer the sporty responsiveness of some competitors with traditional automatic transmissions or more powerful engines. The CVT can sometimes exhibit a “rubber band” feel during hard acceleration, where engine revs climb before the vehicle catches up. Compared to a potential V6 paired with a 7 or 8-speed automatic, the CVT prioritizes efficiency over outright performance. The QX60’s front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to good fuel economy, but all-wheel drive was available as an option for enhanced traction in inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The QX60 3.5 V6 was generally well-equipped, even in its base trim. Standard features typically included tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a rearview camera, and a premium audio system. Higher trim levels, such as the Premium and Limited packages, added features like navigation, a power liftgate, heated and ventilated front seats, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery options included leather in various colors, and wood trim accents were used throughout the cabin to enhance the luxurious feel. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system and a panoramic sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The QX60’s chassis features an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The QX60 also incorporates an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and composed ride for passengers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti QX60 3.5 V6 was generally well-received by critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and upscale features. However, some reviewers noted that the CVT could feel less engaging than traditional automatic transmissions, and the engine’s performance wasn’t as strong as some competitors. Compared to other trims in the QX60 lineup (had there been any significant powertrain alternatives), the 3.5 V6 CVT offered a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It was the most common configuration, appealing to buyers who prioritized comfort and practicality over outright speed. Fuel economy figures were competitive for its class, averaging around 19-26 mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The VQ35DE engine has a strong reputation for reliability, and the QX60’s CVT, while not without its critics, has proven to be generally durable with proper maintenance. In the used car market, the QX60 3.5 V6 remains a popular choice for families seeking a comfortable and well-equipped three-row SUV. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes for the CVT, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The first-generation QX60 established Infiniti as a contender in the luxury crossover segment, paving the way for the redesigned second-generation model.
