2023 Infiniti QX55 Essential AWD

This brand-new Infiniti crossover comes standard with leather-appointed perforated seating surfaces and ProPILOT Assist on all grades. The Essential trim is the middle of the three grades, bringing cube-design LED headlights with auto levelizer, reverse tilt down outside mirrors, front parking sensors, navigation, Around View Monitor, climate controlled front seats, and Bose Performance Series 16 Speakers Audio System.

QX55 is powered by a 2.0-liter Variable Compression (VC) Turbo four-cylinder engine that delivers 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain offers Eco, Sport, and Personal modes, which gives the driver three presets that tailor the vehicle’s behavior for the mood.

The 2023 QX55 achieves a rated mileage of 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for a combined average of 25 mpg.

QX55 brings a suite of new standard comfort and convenience features, including 4-way driver power lumbar support and auto folding heated outside mirrors. I especially liked the body-colored door handles with integrated LED welcome light. In the dark it was welcoming to step out of the vehicle and see the ground bathed in a warm light where you would be stepping. The light quickly helped to identify rocks, holes or varmints that you might not see otherwise.

There is a standard USB Type-C port along with the traditional Type-A port for rear seat passengers to charge devices on the go. The cabin is spacious and includes an advanced-assistance system.

The 8-inch upper and 7-inch lower dual touchscreens for the infotainment system are part of the standard interior as well.

The Bose audio system helps to fill the cabin with the most beautiful sounds. Meanwhile, the available head-up display (HUD) projects vital vehicle information on a 9-inch area of the windshield, keeping the driver’s eyes looking forward.

A full suite of LED lighting with Signature Daytime Running Lights, power moonroof, roof rails, and Power Liftgate add practicality and purpose to the ensemble.

The QX55 is equipped with ProPILOT Assist system that helps you to get from point A to point B with much reduced stress from the traffic. The key is an intelligent cruise control system plus various detection and warning systems. The Steering Assist function will take corrective actions when it senses the vehicle drifting off the lane.

Admittedly I tried the technology only briefly because I wanted to be more personally involved in the driving experience.

I would like to have better shock suspension and some kind of road noise dampener.

The 2023 Infiniti QX55 has not yet been tested by the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating.

The MSRP for the 2023 Infiniti QX55 starts at $49,150 for the Luxe AWD. The Essential AWD model is the next one up at $54,250. Finally, there is the Sensory AWD model at $57,800.

Warranty
4 years/60,000 miles basic coverage
6 Years/70,000 miles powertrain coverage
7 years/unlimited mileage corrosion/perforation coverage

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or [email protected].