2022 Infiniti QX60

The outgoing QX60 was a sloppy handler, but this new model is a significant improvement. Surprisingly, the steering has a nice weight to it, inspiring more driver confidence than we expect from a midsize crossover. The heavier steering is slightly cumbersome in tight parking lots, though. Sharing a platform with the new Pathfinder, the QX60's road manners feel more mainstream than we hoped. Infiniti didn't majorly overhaul Nissan's suspension so road imperfections can easily upset the QX60, especially with the 20-inch wheels. Road noise is fairly low, but other crossovers at this price have cushier rides. In future model years, we'd like to see Infiniti add adaptive suspension to the options list.

We had ample time to test Infiniti's ProPILOT assist, which bundles adaptive cruise control with lane-keep to offer a partially autonomous experience. This system seems to vary in effectiveness depending on what vehicle it's in, but the lane-keep function seemed to do its job in the QX60. The adaptive cruise control, on the other hand, consistently braked too late and felt jarring for passengers. We recommend only using this feature on the highway, as the constant beeps from losing (then recognizing) lane markers get old quickly. ProPILOT is a strong system, but a hands-free option would put the QX60 ahead of competitors.

The 2022 QX60 is by far Infiniti's best product in several years. It delivers attractive styling, a plush cabin, a competitive drivetrain, and strong technology. This is a positive direction for Infiniti, though we aren't sure if it does enough to move the needle for the brand. An electrified powertrain would have put it over the edge, as the familiar V6 simply feels middle-of-the-pack in this segment. And while it's arguably one of the most attractive vehicles in its segment, it doesn't stand out on paper. The Acura MDX offers more interior space and the Lincoln Aviator boasts more power.

If we were shopping in the midsize luxury crossover segment, the 2022 Infiniti QX60 would certainly be on our list as a strong value option. However, there isn't one area where it stands head and shoulders above the competition. A few additional features like ventilated rear seats, hands-free driving, or an optional hybrid powertrain may have put the QX60 over the edge for us. As it stands, the QX60 is a competitive but not perfect luxury three-row SUV.

As can be seen in previous reviews, the Acura MDX has a reputation for being the most successful three-row SUV, and the fourth-gen version is an all-new creature. Handsome styling and a spacious interior are not its only party trick, and the 3.5-liter V6 under the hood is enhanced and mated to a ten-speed auto that was smooth and satisfying during our test drive. Base prices for the MDX start at $48,000 in the US, which is slightly higher than the QX60. Power outputs are a little lower than the Infiniti, at 290 hp and 267 lb-ft, but the ten-speed auto is a dream, with slick and precise shifts. And, while the max towing capacity of the Acura is 1,000 lbs less than the 6,000 lbs the QX60 can manage, we'd be happy to take the hit for the transmission choice alone. Gas mileage figures are 19/26/22 mpg for the most frugal MDX, slightly more thirsty than the Infiniti. The comparison feels tight, as neither SUV excels at everything. If it were our money, we'd settle on the Acura, however.

Another rival that also sports a 3.5-liter V6 is the Lexus RX. While it's available in a 308-hp hybrid version too, the gas-powered variant has similar outputs to the QX60 - 295 hp and 268 lb-ft - and a 0-60 mph sprint time of 7.7 seconds in FWD guise, according to the manufacturer. Despite the F Sport styling available, there's nothing sporty about the Lexus, but even its soft suspension isn't a high point as the Lexus wallows around in an undignified manner. While the standard configuration in the RX is five seats only, a third row can be installed, although these are remarkably cramped and uncomfortable. While the QX60 doesn't do any one thing particularly brilliantly compared to rivals, the RX is not Lexus' best product. In this instance, we'd pick the Infiniti.