The Infiniti QX60 II (L51), specifically equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, represents the second generation of Infiniti’s three-row luxury crossover SUV. Introduced in September 2021 as a 2022 model, the L51 QX60 aimed to address criticisms of the first-generation model, focusing on a more refined interior, updated technology, and improved driving dynamics. This variant occupies the mid-to-upper range of the QX60 lineup, offering a balance of performance and luxury features. It is positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Acura MDX, Buick Enclave, and Volvo XC90 in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX60 |
| Generation | QX60 II (L51) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (295 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier3 Bin70/ LEV3 ULEV70 |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 366 Nm @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 269.95 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ35DD |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 213.46 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 5.07 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 4.22 UK qt |
| Coolant capacity | 11.6 l |
| Coolant capacity (US qt) | 12.26 US qt |
| Coolant capacity (UK qt) | 10.21 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 411 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 14.51 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2135 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 75.4 cu. ft. |
| Length | 5047 mm |
| Length (in.) | 198.7 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2184 mm |
| Width including mirrors (in.) | 85.98 in. |
| Height | 1770 mm |
| Height (in.) | 69.69 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2901 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 114.21 in. |
| Front track | 1699 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 66.89 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1699 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 66.89 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) (in.) | 6.69 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) (ft.) | 38.06 ft. |
| Approach angle | 15° |
| Departure angle | 22.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 15.5° |
| 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 | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350.01×29.97 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 329.95×16 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this QX60 variant is the VQ35DD 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine is a member of Nissan’s long-standing VQ family, known for its smoothness and reliability. The VQ35DD utilizes direct fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for efficient combustion and a broad powerband. The engine produces 295 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with the engine is a ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission replaces the continuously variable transmission (CVT) found in the previous generation QX60, offering more traditional gear changes and a more engaging driving experience. The transmission is tuned for smooth shifts and efficient operation.
Driving Characteristics
The 295-hp V6 and 9-speed automatic combination delivers adequate performance for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration is reasonably brisk, though not particularly sporty. The 9-speed transmission provides a wide range of gear ratios, contributing to both fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Compared to the previous generation’s CVT, the 9-speed offers a more conventional driving feel, with distinct gear changes. While it doesn’t offer the same level of outright performance as some competitors with turbocharged engines, the QX60 prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a slightly less dynamic handling experience compared to all-wheel-drive variants, but it also helps to improve fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The QX60 II with the 3.5L V6 engine was offered in several trim levels, including Pure, Luxe, and Sensory. Even the base Pure trim came standard with features like leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features such as quilted leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a premium Bose audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The QX60 II utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels. The front brakes measure 350.01×29.97 mm, while the rear brakes are slightly smaller at 329.95×16 mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2022 Infiniti QX60 II was generally well-received by automotive critics. The redesigned interior and improved technology were praised, as was the switch to a traditional 9-speed automatic transmission. However, some reviewers noted that the engine, while smooth and refined, lacked the punch of some competitors’ turbocharged offerings. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. Compared to other trims in the QX60 lineup, the 3.5L V6 Automatic variant offered a good balance of performance and value. It was more affordable than the higher-trim models with all-wheel drive, while still providing a comfortable and well-equipped driving experience.
Legacy
The VQ35DD engine has a strong reputation for reliability, and the 9-speed automatic transmission, while relatively new to the Infiniti lineup, has proven to be durable in other applications. As the QX60 II enters the used car market, this powertrain combination is expected to maintain its appeal due to its proven track record. The QX60 II represents a significant step forward for Infiniti in terms of design, technology, and overall refinement, and the 3.5L V6 Automatic variant remains a compelling option for buyers seeking a comfortable and spacious three-row luxury crossover.
