Refreshing or Revolting: 2019 Infiniti QX50

At long last, Infiniti has fully redesigned its QX50 midsize crossover. Ditching the wagon-like looks we first saw in 2007 on the first-gen model (then called the Infiniti EX35), the QX50 has evolved into a more conventional-looking CUV. The QX50 shifts from being rear-drive-based to a new front-drive, transverse-engine layout, which dramatically changes the proportions. But are the changes for better or worse? Read on and see the changes side by side for yourself.

In front, the QX50 looks like a lot of Infiniti’s other recent products, with a similar double-arch grille and slender headlights. But there are unique details that make this Infiniti stand out. The clamshell hood features sculpted humps that accentuate the front end’s aggressive look, while a fender vent below the A-pillar ties the front of the model to the rest of the QX50 and its chrome accents. The outgoing QX50 brings to mind the Infinitis of yesterday, with swept back headlights that have more in common with the second-generation G37 than anything in the modern Infiniti stable.

You’ll notice even more changes from the side. Gone are the QX50’s cab-rearward proportions and long dash-to-axle ratio. The greenhouse opening also looks remarkably different, with the new QX50 adopting Infiniti’s “Crescent C-pillar” rear quarter window kink. Both crossovers have a roof-mounted rear spoiler, but the one on the 2019 model looks slightly larger. The new model’s front end is more upright, which helps make the entire vehicle look taller and more crossover-like. Virtually nothing carries over from the old model in back. The 2019 Infiniti QX50 features horizontally oriented taillights that wrap around the rear fenders, a raked rear window, and a two tone rear bumper with molded dual exhaust tips.

The interior gets a big upgrade in design and material quality, featuring a modern dashboard with dual infotainment screens like the Q50 and Q60, a large TFT display in the gauge cluster, and a diminutive electronic shifter for the CVT.

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