2013 INFINITI QX Review

For 2013, the Infiniti QX receives an updated around-view monitor, a faster-folding third-row seat and improvements to the optional Theater package.

High levels of luxurious comfort and plenty of high-tech features make the 2013 Infiniti QX a solid pick among large luxury SUVs.

When it comes to large SUVs, choices are slim. The selection narrows if you prefer some luxury thrown in. The good news is that large luxury SUV candidates are strong performers in their own right and will likely fulfill your specific needs.

The 2013 Infiniti QX succeeds on several fronts, making it one of the more well-rounded choices. Passengers are treated to truly luxurious accommodations inside, with top-notch leather and wood surfaces and seats comfortable enough for all-day trips. The big QX also offers abundant cutting-edge electronics that should make any early adopter smile. Under the hood, there's a potent V8 engine that gets the large Infiniti up to speed with ease and offers enough power for serious towing.

Fortunately, the QX's downsides are few. As is common to SUVs of this kind, third-row seating is tight and best suited to children. Some drivers and passengers may find the ride harsh, particularly with the larger 22-inch wheels, while others may find the bloated exterior styling a tough hurdle to overcome.

Even considering these faults, the 2013 Infiniti QX remains a strong pick among large luxury SUVs. Of the few that still exist, the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is worth consideration, as it bests the Infiniti on several scores except price. If total space is a priority, the even pricier 2013 Cadillac Escalade ESV is the champion, but its large proportions will challenge some drivers. The Infiniti QX manages to split the difference, meriting serious consideration among the giants.

The 2013 Infiniti QX uses a 5.6-liter V8 that produces 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard. Rear-wheel drive is also standard, with four-wheel drive (with low-range gearing) available as an option. Properly equipped, the QX is capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds and features a tow/haul mode for the transmission as well as an automatic-leveling rear suspension.

In Edmunds testing, the QX accelerated from a standstill to 60 mph in a quick 6.8 seconds. Not surprisingly, the 5,500-pound QX's fuel economy is less impressive. EPA estimates for either rear- or four-wheel-drive models are 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined, a figure that's better than average for this class of vehicle.

The 2013 Infiniti QX comes with stability and traction control, antilock brakes, front-seat side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front active head restraints.

The QX's ability to protect occupants can be enhanced with additional features included in the Technology package. These include a lane-departure warning and prevention system, collision alert, brake assist (which applies the brakes to reduce damage if the driver does not slow the vehicle) and a blind-spot warning system.

In Edmunds testing, the QX stopped from 60 mph in only 123 feet, a figure we're accustomed to seeing from lighter passenger cars. For an SUV of this size, it's nothing less than outstanding.

With 400 hp on tap, the 2013 Infiniti QX unleashes sufficient acceleration to satisfy even the most lead-footed driver. Though there's a limit to how well a vehicle this size can handle, the sophisticated Hydraulic Body Motion Control system -- part of the Deluxe Touring option package -- does a good job of limiting body roll in corners, making the QX feel more confident than you might expect.

Unfortunately this upgraded suspension can only be had with the optional 22-inch alloy wheels and low-profile tires. These rims may pump up the QX's street cred, but over rough pavement they give the big truck a harsh ride unbecoming of a luxury model. On better surfaces, however, the ride smoothes out enough to leave occupants unruffled.

The 2013 Infiniti QX's cabin is just as luxurious as any high-end sedan, with a dizzying array of standard and available high-tech features. Despite the complexity of these systems, operation is surprisingly simple, thanks to thoughtful design and well-placed controls. Particularly useful is the 360-degree parking camera system that stitches together images from four separate cameras to create a top-down view of the vehicle -- something that can be a huge help when negotiating tight spaces in this very large vehicle. New for this year is a function that detects moving objects.

While the first- and second-row captain's chairs are the epitome of cushy comfort, the third row's lack of legroom limits its usefulness to younger kids. Behind the power-folding 60/40-split bench are 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space that expands to 95 cubic feet with both rows of rear seats folded down.