2021 INFINITI QX50 Review
Price Range: $17,998 - $27,990
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2021 Infiniti QX50 Review
Pros
- Roomy interior with comfortable seating
- Lots of cargo space
- Easy to get in and out
- Quiet at highway speeds
Cons
- Inconsistent power delivery due to CVT automatic
- Disappointing real-world fuel economy
- Steering feels overly light and artificial
What's new
- Luxe trim now comes with many features from last year's ProAssist and ProActive packages
- New optional Appearance package for Luxe models
- Part of the second QX50 generation introduced for 2019
Overview
On paper, the 2021 Infiniti QX50 should be a slam dunk. This luxury crossover is loaded with features, costs thousands of dollars less than competitors, and is spacious for passengers and cargo alike. And while rivals generally stick to a conservatively upscale interior design, the QX50 bucks convention, offering an inspired cabin that looks like nothing else on the market. We're genuinely impressed that the corporate bigwigs rubber-stamped the contrasting-color surfaces and suede-like trim.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
32 listings
- $22,900fair price$214 below market
- 58,387 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 22 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- Passport INFINITI of Alexandria (25 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
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Located in Alexandria, VA
Why BUY from Passport Infiniti of Alexandria? When you choose this Black Obsidian 2021 INFINITI QX50 ESSENTIAL with 58,387 miles,...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 3PCAJ5CB3MF115789
Stock: 118399A
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 12-28-2025 - 29,321 miles
- Frame damage reported, 1 owner, personal use
- 5 Seats, 22 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- Kargar Motors (19 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Manassas, VA
BUYING A CAR HAS NEVER BEEN THIS EASY.We specialize in 100% GUARANTEED APPROVAL. BAD CREDIT, NO CREDIT, BANKRUPTCY, REPO, FORECLOSURE...NO PROBLEM. NO...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: Yes
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 3PCAJ5CB6MF125555
Stock: KMM13481
Certified Pre-Owned: No
But some of the QX50's avant-garde touches threaten to mar the experience. The most egregious offender is the so-called VC-Turbo engine and its transmission. The variable-compression engine was created to reap the benefits of running on both low and high compression, which should theoretically deliver either excellent performance or superb fuel economy on demand. But in real life, the turbo-four delivers only so-so acceleration numbers and mediocre fuel economy. The kicker is that the engine is also very sensitive to throttle inputs — an inadvertent press of your big toe will deliver immediate thrust even if you didn't intend it.
If you're looking for a value-rich compact SUV, the Acura RDX and Volvo XC60 are appealing alternatives that won't strain your pocketbook. And while they aren't the least expensive options around, the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC come with a lot of features right out of the box. None of these alternatives exhibit anything like the QX50's powertrain quirks.
What's it like to live with?
For a more complete take on the Infiniti QX50 of this generation, check out our experiences from a full year of living with a 2019 Infiniti QX50 Essential AWD. We cover everything from comfort to performance. Style and technology were among the highlights, but we took issue with elements of its performance. Note that for the 2020 model year, the QX50 got a new infotainment system with smartphone integration as well as some new safety features that weren't available on our 2019 long-term test vehicle.
2021 INFINITI QX50 trim level differences
The 2021 Infiniti QX50 is a compact SUV sold in five trims: Pure, Luxe, Essential, Sensory and Autograph. All come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (268 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque) paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional on all trims. Compare the 2021 INFINITI QX50 trim levels in-depth.
Which QX50 trim does Edmunds recommend?
A major component of the QX50's appeal is the budget-friendly price tag. We say keep the costs under control and get this small crossover in one of its lower trims. For our money, the Luxe is a good way to go. Its added conveniences and driver aids help it keep up with other luxury SUVs.

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$173/mo for QX50 PURE
QX50 PURE
vs
$161/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Reliability
The 2021 INFINITI QX50 has a 4 years / 60,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #6 out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent
#6 out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$492/yr
vs. $559/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Frequency
0.84x/yr
vs. 1.23x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Severity
8.6%
vs. 8.6%
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
2 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 25V437000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- TBD
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 443899
- Defect Description:
- Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Rogue, 2019-2020 Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. The engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure.
- Defect Consequence:
- Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will inspect the engine oil pan for metal debris, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles with the 3-cylinder 1.5L VC-Turbo engine, if no debris is detected during the inspection, dealers will replace the oil pan gasket, engine oil, and reprogram the engine control module. For vehicles with the 4-cylinder 2.0L VC-Turbo engine, if no debris is detected, dealers will replace the engine oil. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 25, 2025. Owners may contact Nissan's customer service at 800-647-7261 or Infiniti's customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
- Recall Number:
- 21V402000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 14276
- Defect Description:
- Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Nissan Murano, INFINITI QX60, 2021 Nissan GT-R, INFINITI QX50, and Q50 vehicles. The front steering knuckle or rear axle housing may have insufficient strength due to improper heat-treatment.
- Defect Consequence:
- The steering knuckle or rear axle could deform upon impact, such as from hitting a curb, resulting in a loss of steering control, or possible wheel separation. Both of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will inspect and replace the front steering knuckle and rear axle housing, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2021. Nissan owners may contact customer service at 1-800-867-7669. INFINITI owners may contact customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
Warranty
4 years / 60,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 60,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 7 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 4 years / 60,000 miles
INFINITI QX50 Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(41%)
4(13%)
3(13%)
2(15%)
1(18%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
I am loving this car!
5 out of 5 starsMZJ, 01/13/2020
2020 INFINITI QX50 LUXE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
This car was not even on my radar. I thought it was too small for my 6'7" husband, but the salesperson told me it had been redesigned and that the inside had more room! Indeed it did! We tried over a dozen cars from luxury to large SUV's. This 2020 QX 50 places more items on it's sleek dashboard and leaves more leg and shoulder room in the cabin of the vehicle. The power seats have … so many adjustments that my husband has as much headroom as in did in our late model Mercedes 450! The seats are comfy, the technology is sweet, it has Apple Play, blind spot warning, lane warnings and the engine has pep!! I was used to a 8 cylinder Jeep and Benz and this sweet ride is just as smooth and much easier on the wallet for gas! It looks small on the outside but don't let that fool you! The back space is very big and the back seats have a 60/40 split! Infiniti gives you road service and live traffic for four years. I have had no buyers remorse and each time I drive the car I am happier than the time before!
GOOD DEAL FOR THE MONEY
5 out of 5 starsBob D, 03/14/2020
2020 INFINITI QX50 LUXE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
My current lease was almost up and I decided I wanted an suv this time around. I liked the look of the QX50 but I didn't like all the poor reviews of the 2019 model on Edmunds. I decided to test drive the 2020 model to see if any of the problems of the 2019 might have been corrected. I was impressed with the ride and size but really impressed with the power of the new engine. I had no … problem with the cvt transmission at low or high speeds. My current car is a three litre 300 twin turbo which I love, yet I see no noticeable differance in power. Yes, I did have a problem with the light steering feel but I changed the setting from standard to sport in the settings option screen and it tightened up to my liking. I really was surprised to like this suv. I live in the city so I never expect good gas mileage from any vehicle and this one is no different. You are always stopping for lights or stop signs so there is just no way you are going to see good mileage. On the highway it's just the opposite. I'm getting almost 30 MPG and the ride is great. The power is very acceptable at any speed. I also found no power lag going up hills which many complained of with the cvt transmission. Many nice features for the money. All in all I'm very happy and surprised with this suv.
Best SUV
5 out of 5 starsBags, 06/30/2021
2021 INFINITI QX50 ESSENTIAL 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
Quiet, responsive, fantastic tech. I love the pro pilot assist. The car "experts" love to complain about the cvt transmission. Don't listen to that crap. You won't be able to tell. Infiniti has done a great job with it. Drive the car. See for yourself. The mileage is excellent. (Update after 1 year+. There have been a few electrical blips.. Lost settings that have to be re entered. … But I'm still a big fan)
Great Luxury SUV
5 out of 5 starsNikki, 02/11/2020
2020 INFINITI QX50 SENSORY 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
I was in the market for an SUV as I had only ever driven coupe vehicles. I had test driven the Inifinti QX50, Acura RDX, Audi A3 & Nissan Murano (in that order). All I can say is how the QX50 really set the bar high for the others. It's a smooth ride. We've already taken it up to the cottage and it was dream on both the highway and side roads. The seats are also so comfortable. The … BOSE stereo system and panoramic roof is also a beautiful touch - it adds a lot of natural light inside the car (my interior is black). A full tank gets around 600km. Only dislike is the gas requirement is premium. It was a pricey purchase, but I don't regret it for a minute, I also plan to have it for as long as possible.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 INFINITI QX50, so we've included reviews for other years of the QX50 since its last redesign.
2021 QX50 Highlights
PURE
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $38,050 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 26 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $173/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 31.4 cu.ft. |
front wheel drive | |
| Warranty | 4 years / 60,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the QX50 models:
- ProPilot Assist
- Assists drivers by maintaining a set distance to the car in front and keeping the car in between the lane lines.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Warns you if a vehicle is approaching your blind spot as you reverse out of a parking spot.
- Forward Emergency Braking
- Alerts the driver with a visual and audible warning when a forward collision with a car or pedestrian is imminent.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover15.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedAcceptable
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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