The QX60 is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine with an aluminum-alloy block and heads, delivering 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Power and efficiency are realized through dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 4-valves per cylinder with micro finished camshaft, and Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System. EPA fuel economy is estimated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
The other engine of choice was the 2.5L supercharged I-4 with Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid, which adds a lithium-ion battery and a 15 kW electric motor into the power equation. This engine is also equipped with electric-active controlled liquid-filled engine mount.
The Infiniti Intelligent Key lets you unlock the doors and start the engine without taking the key out of your pocket or purse. The seat, steering wheel, and mirrors are returned to where you set them. Climate control, radio, and nav settings are also automatically recalled when equipped with Enhanced Intelligent Key memory.
Door handle lights illuminate the ground below. Soft lighting welcomes you to the interior. The interior lights glow warmly to help everyone settle in.
The test vehicle had the optional climate-controlled front seats, which circulate cool or warm air through the seat bottoms as needed. Second row seats are heated too, helping to make everyone comfortable.
The three rows of seating are leather-appointed, making them so comfortable and elegant. The tri-zone automatic temperature control has a micro filter that helps keep pollutants out. Even folks in the back seats have a say in their comfort as they can adjust the temperature controls in the back of the center console.
The moonroof spanning over the two back rows elevates occupant view and allows natural light to flow through the cabin. Another moonroof extends above the driver and front seat passenger as well. The second row occupants enjoy 41.7 inches of legroom.
My QX60 had maple interior accents that seemed to highlight the other quality materials. Leather-appointed 8-way power driver seat and 6-way passenger front seats were wide and comfortable. The sliding and tilting second row seats made entry into the third row easily accomplished.
The 60/40-split folding/reclining/sliding second-row bench seat and a 50/50 split folding/reclining third-row seats makes carrying folks easy. Even with all seats up, there is 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row for storage.
Like the QX50, the QX60 has the Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Front and Rear Sonar System (Part of the $2,900 Premium Plus Package). Four cameras and one virtual 360-degree view from above elevate the parking experience by detecting stationary or moving objects.
Infiniti Drive Mode Selector with Standard, Sport, Snow, and Eco modes, advanced Information display, Bluetooth hands-free, SiriusXM satellite radio with 6-speaker audio system are just some examples of the QX60 technology.
Large 20-inch alloy wheels give the QX60 an athletic stance, with 114.2 inches between the front and the rear wheels. Updated LED daytime running lights and fog lamps accompany HID xenon headlights, which are brighter than halogen bulbs and helping to keep your focus on the road ahead.
The rear and front fascias incorporate signature Infiniti design. From the double-arch grille to the redesigned taillights and accentuated D-Pillar, they all work together to make this 7-passenger SUV a terrific purchase with matching good looks.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $42,600 for the FWD QX60 3.5, and $44,400 for the AWD version.
A Deluxe Technology Package, as the name would suggest, adds an extensive array of wizardry features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Intelligent Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, and also an additional $7,000 to the bottom line.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].
