2012 Infiniti QX

Nissan’s luxury sub-brand sells stylish vehicles that deliver mixed results. Fit and finish is usually good, especially in the quiet, luxurious interiors. But Infiniti often falls short of competitors in fuel economy and handling. Some of its vehicles also score low in our owner satisfaction surveys, and most new models scored average for predicted reliability. New vehicles come standard with a full suite of active safety and driver assist systems. The brand’s lowest-priced option is a two-row compact SUV with a variable compression engine that attempts to deliver both fuel economy and sporty performance. The brand’s larger midsized, three-row SUV is roomy and quiet, with competitive fuel economy and quick acceleration. The largest Infiniti is a large three-row, high-end SUV that competes against Land Rover and Mercedes-Benz. With options, its price can cross $100,000. Among Infiniti’s discontinued vehicles, some sedans and coupes can be recommended among used luxury cars.

With the 2011 redesign, the big Infiniti moved to a new platform. It also became a plush luxury liner with a quiet, well-equipped cabin and a supple, steady ride. However, its high step-in, ungainly handling, and fuel economy of just 15 mpg overall are detriments. Standard safety features include stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes. Options include blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control with automatic braking and lane-departure warning. Infiniti changed the QX56 name to QX for 2012 and 2013 model years. The name changed again to QX80 from 2014 onward.