The 2022 QX55 is a sportier and more stylish cousin of the QX50, and it makes a good first impression with sharp looks and a surprisingly spacious cabin. The driving experience is a letdown, however, as is real-world fuel economy. Overall, we think there are better choices for a coupe-style crossover SUV.
The 2022 Infiniti QX55 is technically a new small luxury SUV, but in reality it's based on the QX50 that debuted in 2019. The big difference between the two is the QX55's sloping coupe-like roofline that lends the QX55 a more striking profile than its traditionally styled sibling. But as with other similarly conceived models, the QX55's extra style comes at the expense of utility. The QX50 has 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats, while the QX55 drops to 26.9 cubes.
Besides styling, there are a few other minor changes for the QX55. All-wheel drive is standard, for example, and Infiniti says it tweaked the engine and transmission to make them more responsive. But there are still some areas where the QX55 comes up short compared to other top coupe-style SUVs such as the BMW X4, Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe and Genesis GV70. Check out our test team's full Expert Rating below to learn more.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Below Average
6.8
out of 10
We drove the 2022 INFINITI QX55 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
6.5/10
How does the QX55 drive? If you go by specs alone, the QX55 holds a lot of promise. Our test QX55 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, which is respectably quick for a small luxury crossover with a four-cylinder engine. It's a bit slow to start but power comes on strong once you're rolling.
However, the powertrain lacks finesse. Much of the problem stems from the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Its simulated gear shifts can be jerky and slow, and transitions from going slow to going hard on the gas are inconsistent. We expect much more smoothness and refinement from a luxury SUV.
The steering is also problematic. Our QX55 Essential test vehicle had the available adaptive steering system. In theory, it provides better steering feel and speed for different driving situations. But in our testing, it felt disconnected and required constant small corrections to keep the vehicle straight on the highway. Overly soft handling around turns is another drawback.
Comfort
6.5/10
How comfortable is the QX55? Authentic leather and a lot of soft surfaces create a comfortable vibe inside the QX55, though it may not wow you the way some rivals do. The front seats are wide and cushy, and our test vehicle had power lumbar support. Unfortunately the front seat bottoms feel too flat, which can cause some discomfort on longer drives.
The biggest story here is the below-average ride quality. You'll notice it right away — the QX55 suspension is always busy, even on smooth roads, and while it rebounds quickly after a bump, you will feel that bump more than you would in most luxury competitors.
Interior
7/10
How’s the interior? The interior of the QX55 places its dual-screen setup front and center, but it could have saved the space and gone with just one. Having two simply doesn't add much to the experience. There's a helpful rotary dial so you don't have to reach all the way to the top screen.
The QX55 makes good use of its space for a small crossover. It's easy to climb in and out. Taller folks will have to duck to get into the back, but once there, the QX55 has a surprising amount of room for both their heads and legs. Drivers around 6 feet tall may wish the seat lowered a bit more, but otherwise the view is commanding. One complaint: A better-resolution backup camera would improve visibility dramatically.
Technology
5.5/10
How’s the tech? Neither of the QX55's dual screens is impressive visually, with so-so graphics, plus icons and maps that feel like they're behind the times. We also had trouble inputting addresses because the native navigation system would start the route unprompted. Good news: Wireless Apple CarPlay comes standard (Android Auto is wired). The Essential trim we tested had the 16-speaker Bose sound system and it produces pleasing audio quality.
The QX55's driver aids are mostly helpful. Parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring help compensate for the QX55's blind spots, and the lane keeping assist system works unobtrusively to help keep you in your intended lane. The adaptive cruise control system is generally good but annoyingly turns off once you come to a stop in heavy highway traffic.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? The QX55 is one of the roomiest models in its class. Behind the second row of seats is 26.9 cubic feet of room, which is better than Audi Q5 Sportback (24.7 cubic feet) and much better than X4 (18.5 cubes) or GLC Coupe (17.6 cubes). The opening is slim — so don't plan on moving large furniture — but otherwise there's enough room for daily activities.
Inside the cabin there's a deep center console and large door pockets. Our biggest wish is for a more natural smartphone area. The back seat accommodates car seats with latches wedged between the cushions that are easy to find. Plus the sliding and reclining rear seat comes in handy for big rear-facing infant seats.
Fuel Economy
7/10
How’s the fuel economy? Fuel economy and sportiness are supposed to be the great virtues of the QX55, but unfortunately it falls short. Its EPA estimate is 25 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway), which is unremarkable compared to rivals. Worse, we observed an average 23.7 mpg on our 115-mile test route on which many vehicles routinely outperform their estimates. Premium fuel is recommended but not required.
Value
7/10
Is the QX55 a good value? Infiniti prices the QX55 competitively against rivals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi. The problem is that the QX55 has trouble keeping pace with that stable of crossovers, making the asking price seem a bit daunting. This is especially true considering there's no cheaper base trim, like the one offered by its close cousin, the QX50. The interior is well constructed but hardly premium enough to justify Mercedes pricing.
It's a similar story with the warranty. Infiniti offers luxury-brand coverage, such as four years/60,000 miles of basic coverage and six years/70,000 miles on the powertrain. But smaller brands often go the extra mile to entice buyers, and the QX55 doesn't. No free maintenance is a missed opportunity.
Wildcard
7/10
There's definitely a certain charm to the QX55, mostly due to its attractive exterior styling and nifty interior. Even the powertrain, which doesn't quite come together as we hoped, lends some personality to the car. Making a first impression matters in this class, and the QX55 does that. Unfortunately few of those positives have to do with actual performance on the road.
The QX55 comes in three trim levels: Luxe, Essential and Sensory. Feature highlights include:
Which QX55 trim does Edmunds recommend?
We suggest stepping up to the midrange Essential trim, not just for the additional convenience and luxury features, but also because it's eligible for more options than the base Luxe model. To that, we'd add the ProAssist package to get additional driver assist features such as adaptive cruise control.
After looking at half a dozen other cars I knew this was the one as soon as I set eyes on it. Curbside appeal and interior are great and then driving it sealed the deal. Now, after three months I am finally getting to understand how most of the advanced electronics operate. Just blows me away - a truly intelligent car. I have owned three Infiniti vehicles in the past without any … mechanical problems and expect this one to be as reliable as the others. Infiniti delivers a great driving experience with power, comfort and styling with the QX55. Since I like to do my own routine maintenance, got turned off by the German cars in the premium SUV category. There is plenty of superior engineering in this car with AWD, dual turbochargers and Constant Velocity Transmission.
After almost three years of driving, I can now update my review with a few additional comments. The onboard electronics can occasionally lock-up and fail to allow for GPS or integrated telephone usage. Usually, the problem goes away after a few minutes or a restart. My guess is that a computer chip has a bug or gets confused. After all, there probably are dozens of chips in the car so that is the cost of contemporary electronics. On the positive side, there are no squeaks, wind noise or other distracting sounds after three years of driving.
Still love the look of the car and the drive.
Purchase this vehicle for my wife’s birthday she is a lover of the Infiniti this is her third one. Infiniti has been a very reliable vehicle with no problems from the previous two so to purchase this QX 55 was a great choice with all the great looks and comfort. We have no complaints and love the ride it gives along with room that’s there when we need it😎
Love my Qx55 sensory trim in graphite gray , I had it for 18 months and so far so good , luxurious and fuel efficient without compromising the SUV style
Moved from a 2019 QX50 to the QX55. While the look of the vehicle was what first drew my attention, the drive quality is far superior to the QX50. Infiniti must have done some tweaking as the transmission is much smoother and the engine seems to deliver more power. The two tone leather is very pleasing to the eye and the seats are comfortable. I don’t share the criticism of the dual … monitors. I appreciate being able to see audio info on one screen with maps on a different screen. I agree, though, that camera resolution needs improvement. Rear storage are is good for a coupe style crossover. All in all, I am very pleased with the QX55. Much more so than the QX50.
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