During 2021, Infiniti presented a novelty that would enhance its range: the QX55. Alongside the QX50, QX60 and QX80, its mission is to complete the range of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) of Infiniti’s prestige division. Prestigious, it must be said, we will agree.
This winter, The Car Guide put it to the test. Here is the report of our impressions.
A fashionable silhouette
With the QX55, Infiniti didn’t reinvent the wheel. He took up a proven formula from competitors, that is to say, borrow a popular SUV and decline it in a truncated version. The QX55 is therefore to the QX50 what the BMW X4 represents compared to the X3. Simply.
When analyzing the QX55 in profile, we notice that its roofline is more receding than that of the QX50 and that its rear end has been somewhat condensed. By necessity, the cargo space is reduced, but the volume remains adequate.
Is it pretty? We can say yes. Is it a fashionable style? Yes. Am I ecstatic seeing it? No.
Photo: Marc-André Gauthier
An engine that does not stand out
Like the QX50, the QX55 is powered by a turbocharged 2-litre four-cylinder engine. So far so good. This is essentially what the competition also offers. The main difference is that this block benefits from variable compression. This mechanism was introduced with the current generation of the QX50 in 2019. At that time, it was said that it would shine with its superior power and low fuel consumption. Maybe in theory, but in practice there’s nothing to write home about.
Indeed, this mechanism develops performance in the category average with a power of 268 horsepower and a torque of 280 lb-ft. Unfortunately for her, she is handicapped by the box she is paired with. True to form, Nissan opted for a continuously variable transmission. Its performance is disappointing. When the engine is in any demand, it seems that the transmission no longer knows where to turn. This is undoubtedly one of the negative points of the vehicle.
Photo: Marc-André Gauthier
In addition to standing out for its power, this mechanism had to stand out for its fuel economy. In this regard, we were not impressed. At the end of our road test, the on-board computer showed an average fuel consumption of just over 10 L/100 km. On top of that, you have to water this mechanics with super gasoline (91 octane). There is no noticeable fuel savings to be achieved with this vehicle… For its part, Natural Resources Canada announces a rating of 9.5 L/100 km in combined driving.
What’s more, it should be noted that we are not fond of its electronically assisted steering. She gives the impression of being completely disconnected. Driving pleasure is seriously affected.
An already outdated multimedia system
Although the QX55 is a new model for 2022, its interior takes us back a few years. In the center of the dashboard, there are two superimposed screens. Not only are some menus redundant, but the infographic on the top screen is outdated, which is very disappointing. We are of the opinion that it would have been much more ingenious on the part of the manufacturer to offer only one screen and for it to be well designed. By the same token, we would have cleared the dashboard and we could have offered more storage.
Once again, although this is a luxury vehicle that has just arrived on the market, there is nothing modern about the dashboard. Forget digital instrumentation. We are rather entitled to two traditional dials. Notice to nostalgics!
Photo: Infiniti
A brand struggling to keep its head above water
Times are tough at Infiniti, which is in downsizing mode. Last year, the manufacturer sold 5,838 vehicles, only 55 vehicles more than in 2020. And we will remember that 2020 had been a particularly trying year for the entire industry.
Infiniti was no exception with a decline of nearly 50% in sales between 2019 and 2020. For 2021, it failed to recover. In this regard, let’s mention the poor performance of the QX55. Arriving in April 2021, it only attracted 484 buyers domestically. This is one statistic among many that should sound the alarm at the brand’s head office.
In short, the QX55 lacks the features necessary to charm and win over buyers. We understand them not to be interested in it.