Review: 2023 Infiniti QX50 AWD Sport

Despite the great-looking exterior and interior, I feel the 2023 Infiniti QX50 AWD Sport does not match the way it performs. This may or may not be an issue for you depending on what you prefer in a compact SUV.

Engine/Transmission

The QX50 Sport has a 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder engine which produces 268hp and 280lb-ft of torque. Not much has changed from the previous year’s models. The QX50 is rated for 10.8L/100km in a city and 8.3L/100km on a highway while I averaged a combined 10.6L/100km. While there are other 4-cylinder SUVs with slightly better fuel economy than the QX50, it isn’t a big difference. The difference would be that these competitors have better acceleration, and you would think that would mean worse fuel economy than the QX50. 0-60mph is said to be done in about 6.7 seconds which is reasonable for a small SUV.

Handling/Performance

As I mentioned before, the looks of the QX50 do not match its performance. It’s almost like getting cat-fished on a dating app. It has a sporty look to it so maybe that is why it is named a sport, but it doesn’t stand to that. And you would think it would be a fun ride, but it isn’t all that great to drive. There is barely a difference in the drive when you select sport mode, as it is not as engaging as some of its competitors. It is quite slow to pick up speed from a stop as it sounds like it is struggling, and it is also slow to respond to your inputs. Pressing on the gas pedal to try and speed up fast you will notice it takes a few seconds which on the road could feel like forever when you want it to be quick and responsive. The BMW X3 4-cylinder for example, is said to be a more sportier drive vs the QX50. Driving around town is not a problem however, it is only when seeking that thrilling drive that you will have an issue with it.

Comfort

I can’t complain about comfort level, I found the drivers seat to be comfortable to sit in for longer periods as it has plenty of adjustments to find a suitable driving position. It is spacious both in the front and rear seats. In most cars I tend to push back the driver’s seat to the farthest position to accommodate my long legs but in the QX50, I didn’t have to do that. I could have kept pushing it back if needed, so leg space is great. The QX50 has 39.6 inches of legroom and 57.9 inches of shoulder room and in the rear seats, you get 38.7 inches of legroom and 57.1 inches of shoulder room. Trunk space is also spacious at 886 liters with the rear seats upright and 1,842L with the rear seats folded. While it is spacious enough, its competitors like the X3 again, has a tad bit more of legroom and shoulder room.

Interior

I’m certain many might not agree with me, but I really liked the idea of the dual infotainment system. It looks unique but I can also understand that the bottom screen can seem useless at times. Although the system may be outdated, I had no issues with connecting my phone or simply using the system. The 2023 Infiniti QX50 is equipped with quite a few features that are appealing to most. It is equipped with perforated leather appointed seats, motion activated liftgate, panoramic sunroof, and quite a lot of safety features to name a few. Overall has a great looking interior, nothing that overpowers or stands out, but it also isn’t so basic looking.

Exterior

The exterior is the best part of the QX50 as it is equipped with 20-inch wheels, a sport front fascia, heated exterior mirrors, remote start, and a couple of black trim pieces around including the exhaust tips. This is what enhances the sport look and can be appealing as well.

Pros/Cons

The 2023 QX50 ticks a couple of boxes in terms of comfort, smooth ride, and quiet cabin. However, it doesn’t tick any boxes for engaging drive or any sporty feel whatsoever. If a sports compact SUV isn’t what you are looking for, then I can see this QX50 being a great entry level luxury SUV. If you are looking for a sports entry level SUV, then there are a couple more options like the one mentioned above, and I’d even dare to say the Mazda CX-5 could be a great option as well. The starting price of the 2023 QX50 Sport AWD is $59,785CAD ($50,405USD) and for that price it is equipped with a lot of standard features. So, in the end, do I think the QX50 is worth it? In my opinion, no. For that starting price, I wouldn’t want a compact SUV to sound like it is struggling to pick up speed. If comfort and a smooth ride was my priority, then there are slightly cheaper options out there. If I’m looking into an almost $60,000 SUV, I would expect for it to be engaging especially when driving around windy roads.