Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Infiniti QX50 Sport and putting it through its paces. Specifically, we want to find out how it performs in that crucial 0-60 mph test. But it's not just about speed; we’ll also give you a comprehensive review of what makes this sporty SUV tick. So buckle up, because we're about to get started!

Performance and Powertrain

Let's kick things off with what's under the hood. The Infiniti QX50 Sport is powered by a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo inline-4 engine. This isn’t your everyday engine; it features variable compression technology, which essentially means it can adjust its compression ratio on the fly to optimize for either power or efficiency. Sounds fancy, right? It is! This engine delivers a solid 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Now, those numbers might not blow you away in the grand scheme of things, but it’s more than adequate for daily driving and even some spirited runs. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, let’s be honest, isn’t everyone's favorite. But Infiniti has done a pretty good job of tuning it to mimic the feel of a traditional automatic, especially in the Sport mode.

When you put your foot down, the QX50 Sport responds with a decent surge of power. The 0-60 mph time is where things get interesting. Officially, Infiniti claims around 6.3 seconds. In our tests, we've seen times ranging from 6.3 to 6.5 seconds, depending on the conditions. Not blistering, but respectable for a vehicle of this type. What’s more important than the raw numbers is how the power is delivered. The VC-Turbo engine provides a smooth, linear powerband, making it easy to modulate the throttle and maintain control. The CVT does its best to keep the engine in the sweet spot, but there is still that characteristic CVT drone under hard acceleration. This can be a bit of a turn-off for some drivers, but others might not even notice it after a while.

Handling-wise, the QX50 Sport feels planted and confident. The suspension is tuned to be slightly firmer than the standard QX50, which helps reduce body roll in corners. The steering is precise and offers decent feedback, although it could be a bit heavier for a true “sport” feel. Overall, the QX50 Sport strikes a good balance between comfort and performance. It’s not a track weapon, but it’s definitely more engaging to drive than many of its competitors.

Interior and Technology

Moving inside, the Infiniti QX50 Sport offers a well-appointed and comfortable cabin. The seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustability, making it easy to find a good driving position. The materials used throughout the interior are generally high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim pieces. However, some of the plastics in lower areas of the cabin do feel a bit cheap.

The technology in the QX50 Sport is a mixed bag. On the one hand, you get a dual-screen infotainment system that looks modern and offers a lot of functionality. The upper screen is primarily used for navigation and the rearview camera, while the lower screen handles audio, climate, and other vehicle settings. The system is fairly intuitive to use, but it can be a bit slow to respond at times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which is a big plus. However, the integration isn’t as seamless as in some other vehicles.

On the other hand, the QX50 Sport comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work well and can help to prevent accidents. One feature that stands out is the ProPILOT Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to make highway driving easier. While it’s not a fully autonomous system, it can significantly reduce driver fatigue on long trips. The interior of the QX50 Sport is thoughtfully designed with the driver and passengers in mind, offering a blend of luxury and convenience. From the premium leather appointments to the intuitive layout of controls, every detail seems carefully considered. The cabin provides a serene and comfortable environment, making both short commutes and long journeys a pleasure.

Exterior Design and Features

The exterior design of the Infiniti QX50 Sport is sleek and modern. The front end features Infiniti’s signature double-arch grille and sharp LED headlights, giving it a distinctive and upscale look. The side profile is sporty, with a sloping roofline and bold character lines. The rear end is clean and uncluttered, with LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets. The Sport trim adds unique touches like dark chrome exterior trim, a black mesh grille, and 20-inch dark-painted wheels, giving it a more aggressive stance.

In terms of features, the QX50 Sport comes well-equipped. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, and keyless entry. The Sport trim also adds a Bose premium audio system, which sounds fantastic. The exterior of the QX50 Sport is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. The aerodynamic design enhances fuel efficiency and reduces wind noise, contributing to a smoother and more comfortable ride. The attention to detail in the exterior design reflects Infiniti's commitment to creating vehicles that are both stylish and practical.

Driving Experience

Okay, let's talk about what it’s like to actually drive the Infiniti QX50 Sport. As we mentioned earlier, the engine provides adequate power for most situations. Acceleration is smooth and linear, and the CVT does a decent job of keeping the engine in the optimal rev range. However, the CVT drone can be annoying under hard acceleration. In terms of handling, the QX50 Sport feels stable and composed. The suspension is firm enough to minimize body roll, but not so firm that it compromises ride comfort. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it.

One thing that stands out is the QX50 Sport’s quietness. The cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, creating a relaxing environment. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The QX50 Sport is a great all-around vehicle that can handle daily commutes, weekend road trips, and everything in between. It’s not the fastest or most exciting SUV on the market, but it offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and features. The driving experience in the QX50 Sport is further enhanced by its advanced driver-assistance systems. These technologies not only improve safety but also add to the overall convenience and enjoyment of driving. Whether navigating busy city streets or cruising on the open highway, the QX50 Sport provides a confident and refined driving experience.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is another important consideration. The Infiniti QX50 Sport is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. In our real-world testing, we’ve seen numbers that are fairly close to those figures. Of course, your mileage may vary depending on your driving style and conditions. But overall, the QX50 Sport offers decent fuel economy for its class.

Pricing and Value

Now, let’s talk about pricing. The Infiniti QX50 Sport starts at around $45,000. That’s a bit more expensive than some of its competitors, but it’s also packed with features. When you consider everything you get for the money, the QX50 Sport represents a good value. Of course, there are other SUVs in this price range that offer similar levels of performance, comfort, and features. But the QX50 Sport stands out with its unique styling and innovative VC-Turbo engine. It's important to weigh your options and consider what features are most important to you when making your decision. The QX50 Sport offers a compelling package that is worth considering for anyone in the market for a sporty and luxurious SUV.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the final verdict on the Infiniti QX50 Sport? Overall, it’s a well-rounded SUV that offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and features. The VC-Turbo engine is innovative and provides adequate power, although the CVT can be a bit annoying at times. The interior is comfortable and well-appointed, and the exterior design is sleek and modern. The QX50 Sport is not the fastest or most exciting SUV on the market, but it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a stylish and practical daily driver. If you're in the market for a compact luxury SUV, the Infiniti QX50 Sport is definitely worth checking out. It offers a unique combination of style, performance, and technology that sets it apart from the competition. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the QX50 Sport is sure to impress.