2027 Infiniti QX65 First Drive Review: Mere Presence Isn’t Sufficient

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      Infiniti has an ambitious strategy to re-establish itself in the public eye, which involves introducing rear-wheel-drive, manual sport sedans, and body-on-frame luxury SUVs. However, before diving into the more exciting assets of the lineup, the brand must first cater to a broader audience. The QX65 aims to distill the versatile appeal of the QX60 into a fashionable, elevated crossover for five, boasting a sleek design. While it looks appealing, it prioritizes aesthetics over performance—which is likely intentional.

      Essential Details

      The QX65 is set to arrive at dealerships this upcoming summer, with a starting price of $55,535. Like its platform mate, the Murano, it features a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder engine, but the QX65 delivers 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. These are impressive numbers, complemented by a 9-speed automatic transmission rather than a CVT, which has been fine-tuned by engineers for a more responsive power output and a "sportier shift schedule."

      The base model, known as "Luxe," comes equipped with various standard features, including a moonroof, ProPilot driver-assist technology (not to be confused with the hands-free capable ProPilot 2.1, which is an optional extra on the highest trim), and dual 12.3-inch displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment. For an additional $1,700, upgrading to the Sport variant adds ventilated front seats, a premium 16-speaker Klipsch sound system, and a 3D around-view monitor. Infiniti believes this will be the most popular choice among buyers, and the modest price bump makes it an appealing option.

      The premier Autograph trim, however, comes with a heftier starting price of $64,135, featuring larger 21-inch wheels, semi-aniline leather, front seats with massage functionality, an enhanced audio system with speakers integrated into the front headrests, a heads-up display, and a unique burgundy interior color that feels almost unfair to limit to this tier, as it significantly enhances the interior aesthetics.

      In terms of design, the QX65 doesn't commit any major faults, but it also doesn’t particularly stand out. The brand claims to draw inspiration from the classic FX45—often considered the first luxury crossover—but it lacks the FX45’s signature long hood and low, wide stance. Visually, the QX65 resembles any typical high-riding SUV with a coupe-like roofline, employing styling tricks such as a black roof and sills to create a slimmer appearance, common among vehicles in its category. The available Sunfire Red paint with gold flakes is a commendable touch that truly shines in the sunlight.

      Similar to the Murano my colleague Caleb reviewed previously, the QX65 has limited physical controls for climate adjustment, yet it does feature a stack of large, clearly labeled touch-sensitive buttons. Real buttons would be preferable, but at least you don’t need to tap a small icon on the touchscreen to adjust the fan speed. It also includes Nissan’s top-tier Qi2 wireless charger, which I personally find superior to any other options in modern cars.

      Overall, the cabin is pleasing. The Autograph features may not be world-class, but the materials are good, and the touches of wood and quilted dashboard provide a nice level of elegance to one of Infiniti's more stylish offerings. While it may not necessarily feel like it’s worth $64,000, I cannot identify significant flaws to criticize.

      One of the QX65’s unexpected strengths is its cargo space. While that may not sound overly impressive, it is noteworthy. There is a substantial amount of room—35.8 cubic feet, to be precise—behind the second row, which is surprising given the vehicle's roofline and the brand's efforts to create a compact appearance.

      Driving the Infiniti QX65

      Until the rebadged Skyline arrives, Infiniti wants to present the QX65 as the go-to model for an engaging drive within their lineup. Unsurprisingly, it falls short of that expectation. The driving experience isn’t terrible, but it feels no different from an average crossover—modified with software tweaks that provide more noise than actual excitement.

      For instance, the steering is surprisingly heavy for a vehicle of this nature; it feels like a Nissan Murano with superior stitching. The ride is primarily geared for comfort but doesn’t excel in absorbing bumps or small potholes. The powertrain’s “sportier” shifting merely results in a more sensitive throttle response.

      While there’s a clear attempt to give the QX65 an enthusiastic personality, it only feels lively off the line. However, when you put your foot down, it quickly becomes evident that the performance limitations are quite pronounced. In one instance, while attempting a right turn from a stop at an intersection up a hill and