The Infiniti QX60 I (L50), specifically the facelifted version produced from 2017 to September 2021, represents Infiniti’s entry into the three-row luxury crossover segment. This iteration of the QX60, powered by the 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), aimed to provide a comfortable and spacious family vehicle with a premium feel. Positioned as the core offering within the QX60 lineup during its production run, it served as the most accessible powertrain option, balancing performance with fuel efficiency and price. The L50 QX60 was a significant model for Infiniti in the North American market, where demand for mid-size luxury SUVs was – and remains – high.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX60 |
| Generation | QX60 I (L50, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (295 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | September, 2021 |
| 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) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 148.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 183.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 366 Nm @ 4800 rpm (269.95 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ35DD |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1991 kg (4389.4 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 | 1669 mm (65.71 in.) |
| Rear track | 1669 mm (65.71 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 187 mm (7.36 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission CVT |
| 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 2017-2021 Infiniti QX60 is the VQ35DD 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of Nissan’s well-regarded VQ family, is known for its smoothness and reliability. The VQ35DD utilizes direct fuel injection, enhancing both power and fuel efficiency. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) to optimize engine performance across the rev range. The engine produces 295 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. Critically, this engine is paired exclusively with a Jatco-sourced continuously variable transmission (CVT). Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides a virtually infinite number of ratios, aiming for optimal engine efficiency and smooth acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The QX60 3.5L Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness over outright sportiness. The CVT, while efficient, doesn’t offer the immediate response of a traditional automatic or dual-clutch transmission. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving and highway merging, but it lacks the punch of some competitors. The CVT is programmed to mimic stepped gear changes under hard acceleration, providing a more familiar feel. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to good fuel economy, but it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system (which was available on other QX60 trims). The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride, but body roll is noticeable during aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2017-2021 QX60 3.5L Automatic typically came standard with a generous array of features. These included tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a rearview camera, and a premium audio system. Infotainment was handled by dual screens – an upper screen for navigation and audio controls, and a lower screen for climate and vehicle settings. Available options included a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. Trim levels varied slightly year to year, but generally included base models, and higher trims adding more luxury and technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The QX60 utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride and reasonable handling. All four wheels feature ventilated disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. Steering is rack-and-pinion, offering a light and easy feel. The QX60’s weight of approximately 4,389 lbs. influences its handling characteristics, making it feel less agile than some smaller crossovers. Standard tire sizes were 235/65R18 or 235/55R20, depending on the trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The QX60 3.5L Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and practical family vehicle. However, the CVT transmission was a common point of criticism, with some reviewers finding it less engaging than traditional automatics. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to competitors like the Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Audi Q7, the QX60 offered a more affordable price point, but lacked the same level of performance and brand prestige. Compared to other QX60 trims, such as those with all-wheel drive, the front-wheel-drive 3.5L model offered the best fuel economy but sacrificed all-weather capability. The 3.5L engine was also seen as a good balance between power and efficiency compared to potential future turbocharged options.
Legacy
The VQ35DD engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a reliable powertrain. The CVT transmission, however, requires diligent fluid changes to prevent premature wear. In the used car market, the 2017-2021 QX60 3.5L Automatic represents a good value for buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable three-row crossover. Its relatively simple engine design and readily available parts contribute to reasonable maintenance costs. While not the sportiest option in its class, the QX60 remains a popular choice for families prioritizing comfort, space, and reliability.
