2026 Infiniti QX60 Review: Style Over Substance in Luxury SUV Segment

The 2026 Infiniti QX60 presents a paradox. While its striking design commands attention on the road, our extensive two-week test reveals significant compromises beneath its sleek exterior. Positioned in the competitive $53,200-$66,150 luxury three-row SUV segment, the QX60 struggles to justify its premium positioning against formidable rivals.

Design Excellence Stands Alone

Few SUVs in this class match the QX60’s visual impact. Its Graphite Shadow gray paint with jet-black two-tone accents creates a sophisticated, athletic presence. The aggressive grille, sharp headlights, and sculpted side skirts demonstrate thoughtful detailing absent in many bland competitors. The QX60 successfully translates Infiniti’s luxury DNA into a family hauler format, arguably becoming one of the segment’s best-looking vehicles. This aesthetic achievement, however, becomes its primary distinction.

Interior Compromises Emerge

Inside, the QX60 blends modern and dated elements. While quality materials like leather upholstery and open-pore wood trim impress, the asymmetrical dashboard design feels rooted in the 2010s. The dual-screen infotainment system functions adequately but features fingerprint-prone black plastic controls. The steering wheel feels disappointingly ordinary for this price point.

Practical issues surface in the third row:

• Extremely limited legroom suitable only for children
• Headrests severely obstruct rear visibility when raised
• Manual folding mechanism requires physical effort
• Cargo space shrinks significantly with all rows upright

The front seats offer heating and ventilation (though weak), while the second row only gets heating. The QX60 redeems itself partially with a robust 6,000-pound towing capacity – a segment standout.

Performance and Tech Shortcomings

The QX60’s driving experience proves underwhelming. Its 268-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine feels strained moving 4,700 pounds. The nine-speed automatic transmission delivers hesitant shifts, and the variable compression ratio technology creates an unpredictable power band – either sluggish or abruptly aggressive. Real-world fuel economy averaged just 19.5 mpg during our mixed driving, falling significantly below EPA estimates (22 city/27 highway/24 combined).

The outdated ProPilot Assist 1.1 driver aid system feels generations behind competitors:

• Aggressively fights driver steering corrections
• Frequently crosses lane markings
• Lacks the smooth, intuitive operation of newer systems like Nissan/Infiniti’s own ProPilot Assist 2.1

Competitive Landscape Exposes Weaknesses

The QX60 faces intense competition where it falls short. The mechanically related Nissan Pathfinder offers similar space and towing for approximately $10,000 less. Korean rivals like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe provide comparable features at lower price points. More critically, alternatives like the Mazda CX-90, Acura MDX, Lexus TX, and Volvo XC90 deliver superior driving dynamics, modern tech interfaces, and stronger brand cachet within the same price bracket.

The 2026 Infiniti QX60 excels visually but falters where luxury SUV buyers prioritize: driving engagement, cutting-edge technology, third-row usability, and fuel efficiency. While its design turns heads and towing capacity impresses, these strengths are overshadowed by significant compromises versus class leaders. Unless Infiniti addresses these core shortcomings or adjusts pricing substantially, the QX60 remains a tough recommendation in the premium three-row SUV segment. Explore alternatives before committing.

Must Know

Q: How spacious is the 2026 Infiniti QX60’s third row?
A: The third row is exceptionally cramped, suitable only for small children or very short trips. Legroom is severely limited, and adult passengers will find it uncomfortable. The headrests also significantly block rear visibility when raised.

Q: What is the real-world fuel economy of the Infiniti QX60?
A: During our two-week real-world testing under normal driving conditions, we averaged 19.5 MPG combined. This fell notably below the EPA’s estimated 24 MPG combined rating (22 city/27 highway). Heavy traffic or aggressive driving could lower this further.

Q: Does the QX60 have advanced driver assistance features?
A: Yes, but it uses the outdated ProPilot Assist 1.1 system. It requires constant hand pressure on the wheel, struggles with lane centering, and feels less refined than newer systems (including Infiniti’s own ProPilot Assist 2.1 available in other models). It lacks true hands-free capability.

Q: What are the main competitors to the Infiniti QX60?
A: Key rivals include the Acura MDX, Lexus TX, Mazda CX-90, Volvo XC90, and Audi Q7 in the luxury segment. Value-focused alternatives include the Nissan Pathfinder (shares platform), Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Toyota Grand Highlander.

Q: What is the maximum towing capacity?
A: The QX60 boasts a best-in-class 6,000-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. This exceeds many competitors and is a significant strength for buyers needing to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.