The 2023 Infiniti QX55 is Infiniti’s attempt to blend coupe-like styling with the everyday practicality of a compact luxury SUV. Inspired by the distinctive FX and QX70 models that helped popularize the crossover-coupe segment years ago, the QX55 brings a sleek roofline, bold design cues, and a more emotional appearance than the conventional QX50 on which it is based.
For buyers who prioritize style, the QX55 certainly makes a strong first impression. Its sculpted bodywork, aggressive front fascia, and fastback silhouette help it stand out in a crowded luxury SUV market dominated by vehicles like the BMW X4, Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe, and Genesis GV70. Unlike many rivals, every QX55 comes standard with all-wheel drive, a long list of safety features, and Infiniti’s innovative variable-compression turbocharged engine.
However, good looks alone are not enough in the premium segment. Luxury SUV shoppers expect refined performance, cutting-edge technology, and an interior that feels special for the money. The 2023 Infiniti QX55 delivers some strengths in comfort and efficiency, but it also faces stiff competition from newer and more sophisticated alternatives that often offer a more complete luxury experience.
Our Take
The 2023 Infiniti QX55 is one of the most stylish compact luxury SUVs on the road, offering attractive design, comfortable seating, and a generous list of standard safety features. It remains a compelling option for buyers who want something different from the usual German luxury crossovers and appreciate Infiniti’s distinctive approach to design.
That said, the QX55 struggles to justify its premium pricing in a segment filled with exceptional competitors. While the turbocharged engine provides adequate performance and the ride quality is comfortable, the driving experience lacks the refinement and engagement found in rivals like the BMW X4 and Genesis GV70. The aging infotainment system and cabin technology also feel behind the curve compared to newer luxury SUVs.
For shoppers who prioritize styling and comfort above all else, the QX55 remains a respectable choice. But for those seeking the best overall luxury SUV experience, several competitors deliver more performance, technology, and value for similar money.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Distinctive coupe-inspired exterior design
- Standard all-wheel drive on every trim
- Comfortable front seats with excellent long-distance support
- Spacious rear-seat legroom for the segment
- Strong suite of standard safety and driver-assistance features
- Competitive fuel economy for a luxury crossover coupe
Cons
- Difficult to justify over newer alternatives like the Genesis GV70
- Infotainment system feels outdated compared to rivals
- Engine and CVT combination lacks character
- Interior materials are not as premium as some competitors
- Pricing climbs quickly on higher trims
- Less engaging driving experience than key rivals
What’s New for 2023
The Infiniti QX55 enters the 2023 model year with only minor updates, reflecting Infiniti’s focus on adding value rather than introducing major mechanical changes. Every trim now comes standard with leather-appointed seating, making the entry-level Luxe model feel more premium from the start. Infiniti has also expanded the availability of its ProPILOT Assist driver-assistance system, helping strengthen the QX55’s safety credentials in a highly competitive luxury segment.
Beyond these equipment upgrades, the QX55 remains largely unchanged. The turbocharged 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, continuously variable transmission (CVT), and standard all-wheel-drive system all carry over from the previous year. While buyers benefit from additional standard features, the lack of significant technological or performance improvements means the QX55 continues to compete against rivals that have received more comprehensive updates in recent years.
Exterior Design
If there is one area where the 2023 Infiniti QX55 truly shines, it is exterior styling. The QX55 successfully captures the spirit of the original Infiniti FX, a vehicle that helped establish the luxury crossover-coupe segment long before it became fashionable. Its sloping roofline, muscular rear haunches, and sculpted bodywork create a sporty and sophisticated appearance that still stands out in parking lots filled with more conventional SUVs.
The front end features Infiniti’s signature double-arch grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights that give the QX55 a confident presence. Flowing character lines along the sides help reduce the visual bulk often associated with crossovers, while the fastback rear profile adds a sense of motion even when the vehicle is standing still. Large wheels and subtle chrome accents further enhance the upscale appearance.
While competitors such as the BMW X4 and Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe offer their own distinctive styling, the QX55 arguably delivers one of the most elegant designs in the segment. Its proportions feel balanced and cohesive rather than overly aggressive, making it appealing to buyers who prefer understated luxury over attention-grabbing performance aesthetics.
Driving Experience
The 2023 Infiniti QX55 is tuned primarily for comfort rather than outright sportiness. Around town, the suspension does an excellent job absorbing rough pavement, potholes, and highway imperfections. The ride remains composed and comfortable during daily commuting, making the QX55 a pleasant companion for long-distance travel.
Steering is light and predictable, which helps make the vehicle easy to maneuver in urban environments and parking lots. Standard all-wheel drive also provides additional confidence during adverse weather conditions and improves overall stability on the highway. Cabin noise remains reasonably well controlled, allowing passengers to enjoy a relaxed driving experience even at higher speeds.
However, drivers expecting the sharp handling characteristics associated with many luxury crossover coupes may come away disappointed. The QX55 prioritizes refinement over engagement, and its chassis does not encourage spirited driving. During aggressive cornering, noticeable body movement and understeer reduce driver confidence, while the powertrain lacks the responsiveness and excitement offered by several competitors.
Ultimately, the QX55 delivers a comfortable and easygoing driving experience that will satisfy most daily drivers. Yet enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic luxury SUV will likely find stronger alternatives elsewhere in the segment.
Performance & Acceleration
Powering the 2023 Infiniti QX55 is a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder engine that produces 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Infiniti’s variable-compression technology is an impressive engineering achievement, automatically adjusting compression ratios to balance performance and efficiency depending on driving conditions.
In everyday driving, the engine provides adequate acceleration for merging, passing slower traffic, and highway cruising. The QX55 feels responsive at lower speeds, and the standard all-wheel-drive system helps put power to the ground effectively. Infiniti estimates a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.4 seconds, placing it in the middle of the compact luxury SUV segment.
Despite the respectable numbers on paper, the driving experience never feels particularly exciting. The continuously variable transmission works smoothly and does a decent job simulating traditional gear changes, but it lacks the crisp responses of the automatic transmissions found in many competitors. Under hard acceleration, the engine can become noisy, and the power delivery feels less engaging than the turbocharged powertrains offered by BMW, Genesis, and Mercedes-Benz.
For most luxury SUV buyers, performance will be more than sufficient. However, shoppers seeking a truly athletic crossover coupe may find the QX55 less rewarding than some of its key rivals.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
One of the QX55’s strongest qualities is its ability to deliver a comfortable and refined ride. Infiniti has long been known for building exceptionally supportive seats, and the QX55 continues that tradition. Both front occupants benefit from excellent cushioning and long-distance comfort, making the vehicle particularly well suited for commuting and road trips.
The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with impressive composure. Whether traveling through city streets or cruising on the interstate, the QX55 maintains a calm and controlled demeanor that many luxury buyers will appreciate. Wind and road noise are generally kept under control, contributing to a relaxed cabin environment.
Buyers cross-shopping competitors may also want to consider the BMW X4, Genesis GV70, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. These rivals offer varying blends of comfort and athleticism, with some delivering a more engaging driving experience while others focus on luxury and refinement.
Although the QX55 provides impressive ride comfort, some competitors feel more premium overall thanks to quieter cabins, more sophisticated materials, and better isolation from rough road surfaces. Even so, comfort remains one of the Infiniti’s most appealing attributes.
Interior & Luxury Feel
Inside, the 2023 Infiniti QX55 presents a cabin that is attractive, functional, and generally well assembled. Soft-touch materials cover many of the primary contact points, while available semi-aniline leather upholstery on higher trims helps create a more upscale atmosphere. The dashboard layout is clean and familiar, and visibility remains excellent despite the coupe-inspired roofline.
Front-seat passengers enjoy generous space and excellent seating comfort, while rear-seat occupants benefit from surprisingly good legroom for a crossover coupe. Infiniti has done a commendable job preserving passenger space despite the vehicle’s sleek exterior design. Headroom in the rear is slightly reduced compared with traditional SUVs, but most adults will still find the cabin comfortable for everyday travel.
Where the QX55 falls short is in creating a truly memorable luxury experience. Some switchgear, controls, and design elements reveal the vehicle’s connection to other Nissan products, reducing the sense of exclusivity expected in this price range. Competitors such as the Genesis GV70 and BMW X4 simply feel more modern and more luxurious inside.
Nevertheless, the QX55 remains a comfortable and welcoming place to spend time. Buyers who prioritize seat comfort, passenger space, and day-to-day usability will find plenty to appreciate, even if the cabin no longer leads the segment in sophistication.
Technology & Infotainment
Technology is arguably the area where the 2023 Infiniti QX55 shows its age the most. While the vehicle includes many of the connectivity features buyers expect in a modern luxury SUV, the overall infotainment experience feels a generation behind several key competitors.
The QX55 uses Infiniti’s dual-screen infotainment setup, featuring an upper display for navigation and vehicle information and a lower touchscreen for audio, climate, and other controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay comes standard, while Android Auto integration, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM, HD Radio, and multiple USB ports help ensure compatibility with modern devices.
Unfortunately, the system’s graphics, menu structure, and response times feel dated compared with the latest interfaces found in luxury SUVs from Genesis, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Navigating between menus can require more steps than necessary, and the overall user experience lacks the polish expected at this price point.
Higher trims improve the experience with built-in navigation, a head-up display, and a Bose premium audio system that delivers impressive sound quality. Still, while the QX55 offers plenty of features, its technology package no longer feels like a segment leader.
Fuel Economy
One advantage of Infiniti’s VC-Turbo engine and continuously variable transmission is respectable fuel efficiency. According to EPA estimates, the 2023 Infiniti QX55 returns up to 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of approximately 25 mpg.
Those figures compare favorably with many traditional luxury crossover competitors and help make the QX55 a practical option for drivers who spend significant time commuting or traveling long distances. The engine’s variable-compression technology is specifically designed to optimize efficiency during light-load driving while still providing adequate performance when needed.
Real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving habits, weather conditions, and traffic patterns, but most owners should find the QX55 reasonably efficient for a luxury SUV with standard all-wheel drive.
However, buyers focused primarily on maximizing fuel savings may want to explore hybrid alternatives. Vehicles such as the Lexus NX Hybrid and Lexus RX Hybrid can deliver significantly better efficiency while maintaining the premium features expected in this segment.
Practicality & Cargo Space
Although the QX55 adopts a coupe-inspired roofline, Infiniti has done a commendable job preserving everyday practicality. Passenger space remains generous for the class, particularly in the rear seats, where legroom is among the best in the segment.
Behind the second row, the QX55 offers 26.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which is slightly less than the more traditional Infiniti QX50 but still competitive among luxury crossover coupes. Folding the rear seats expands total cargo capacity to more than 54 cubic feet, providing enough room for luggage, shopping trips, sports equipment, or weekend getaways.
The cargo area itself is wide and easy to access, while the low load floor simplifies loading heavier items. Numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin further enhance day-to-day usability, giving drivers convenient places to store phones, wallets, beverages, and other personal items.
While some conventional luxury SUVs offer greater overall cargo capacity, the QX55 strikes a respectable balance between dramatic styling and practical utility. Buyers who want a more fashionable alternative to a traditional crossover are unlikely to feel significantly compromised in everyday use.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety is one of the strongest aspects of the 2023 Infiniti QX55. Infiniti equips every model with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, helping the QX55 remain competitive despite its aging platform and infotainment system.
Standard features include Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Blind Spot Intervention, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Automatic Braking, and High Beam Assist. These systems work seamlessly in everyday driving and provide an additional layer of confidence during busy commutes and highway travel.
For 2023, Infiniti also makes its ProPILOT Assist system standard across the lineup. This technology combines adaptive cruise control with steering assistance to reduce driver fatigue during long highway journeys. While not a fully autonomous system, it performs smoothly and effectively in light traffic and on open highways.
The QX55 has earned strong crash-test results and benefits from the solid safety foundation shared with the Infiniti QX50. Buyers seeking a stylish luxury crossover without sacrificing modern safety technology will find little to complain about here.
Competitors Worth Considering
The compact luxury SUV segment is one of the most competitive markets in the industry, and the 2023 Infiniti QX55 faces several highly capable rivals.
The BMW X4 remains one of the benchmark crossover coupes, offering sharper handling, more advanced technology, and a more premium overall experience. Drivers who prioritize performance will likely prefer the BMW.
The Genesis GV70 delivers exceptional value, combining upscale materials, powerful engine options, advanced technology, and one of the best interiors in the segment. It is arguably the strongest alternative to the QX55 for most buyers.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC appeals to shoppers seeking a refined luxury experience, a prestigious badge, and a sophisticated cabin loaded with technology. It may cost more, but many buyers will appreciate its premium feel.
Buyers interested in comfort and efficiency should also consider the Lexus NX, particularly the hybrid variants, which offer outstanding fuel economy and long-term reliability. Meanwhile, the Audi Q5 remains a well-rounded option that balances comfort, technology, practicality, and performance.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
The Luxe trim offers the best value in the 2023 Infiniti QX55 lineup.
Unlike many luxury vehicles that require expensive upgrades to access desirable features, the entry-level Luxe model already includes leather-appointed seating, wireless Apple CarPlay, a power liftgate, a panoramic moonroof, heated front seats, ProPILOT Assist, and a full suite of advanced safety technologies. Most buyers will find it exceptionally well equipped without needing to spend thousands more on higher trims.
The Essential trim adds navigation, ventilated front seats, and a Bose premium audio system, but the price increase makes it harder to justify when compared to competitors that offer more advanced technology for similar money. The top-tier Sensory trim introduces semi-aniline leather and additional luxury touches, yet it pushes the QX55 dangerously close to the pricing territory of better-performing rivals.
For that reason, Cardrav recommends sticking with the Luxe trim and enjoying the QX55’s attractive design, comfortable cabin, and strong safety package while maximizing overall value.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The 2023 Infiniti QX55 succeeds in one important area: it looks fantastic. Its sleek coupe-inspired profile, comfortable seating, spacious interior, and generous collection of standard safety features make it an appealing luxury crossover for buyers who value style and day-to-day comfort above outright performance.
However, the QX55 faces a difficult challenge in a segment filled with outstanding alternatives. While Infiniti’s VC-Turbo engine delivers respectable power and fuel economy, the driving experience lacks the refinement and engagement offered by rivals such as the BMW X4 and Genesis GV70. The aging infotainment system also struggles to compete with the more advanced technology found elsewhere in the luxury market.
For shoppers who love its distinctive design and want a comfortable premium crossover with standard all-wheel drive, the QX55 remains a solid choice. Yet for buyers seeking the best combination of luxury, technology, performance, and overall value, several competitors make a stronger case.
Cardrav Verdict: 7.8/10
The 2023 Infiniti QX55 is stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped, but its aging technology and average driving dynamics prevent it from becoming a class leader.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Infiniti QX55 a luxury SUV?
Yes. The 2023 Infiniti QX55 is classified as a compact luxury crossover SUV. It offers premium materials, advanced safety technology, standard all-wheel drive, and a stylish coupe-inspired design aimed at luxury buyers.
What engine does the 2023 Infiniti QX55 use?
Every QX55 is powered by a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive.
Is the Infiniti QX55 bigger than the BMW X4?
The QX55 offers comparable exterior dimensions but provides excellent rear-seat legroom and competitive cargo capacity. Many passengers will find the Infiniti more spacious in everyday use than some of its German rivals.
Does the 2023 Infiniti QX55 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay comes standard, and Android Auto is also included. The QX55 supports Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM, HD Radio, USB ports, and available built-in navigation.
Should I buy the 2023 Infiniti QX55 or Genesis GV70?
For most buyers, the Genesis GV70 offers a more modern interior, stronger technology, more engaging performance, and better overall value. However, the Infiniti QX55 remains attractive for shoppers who prioritize distinctive styling, comfortable seating, and a smooth daily driving experience.
