2001 Infiniti QX4

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.

This SUV, an upscale version of the Nissan Pathfinder, debuted for 1997. The QX4 has a relatively comfortable ride, good front seats, and predictable handling. Somewhat small for its class, the QX4 has a relatively modest load capacity and scant cargo space. Significant updates for 2000 included a more powerful engine, stronger brakes, and better-placed controls. Except for the QX4's selectable full-time 4WD system (which became available on the Pathfinder LE for 2001), there is little reason to choose it over the less costly Nissan.