2026 Infiniti QX60 Review: What Has Changed and Does It Still Make Sense?
The Infiniti QX60 has been the brand’s most important and best-selling model in the US for more than a decade. Originally launched as the Infiniti JX35 and later renamed QX60, this three-row luxury SUV has always focused on comfort, design, and family usability rather than outright sportiness.
Around four years ago, Infiniti introduced the second-generation QX60 with bolder styling, more power, and a significantly improved interior. For 2026, the QX60 receives a comprehensive refresh with updated design elements, a new turbocharged engine, and a technology-focused cabin.
The key question is simple. Has Infiniti done enough with the 2026 QX60 to keep it competitive against newer rivals like the Acura MDX and Lexus TX?
2026 Infiniti QX60: What’s New
For 2026, Infiniti has focused on three main areas.
Updated exterior styling inspired by the flagship QX80
Replacement of the V6 engine with a new 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder
A redesigned interior with larger screens and Google built-in infotainment
This review focuses on the QX60 Autograph, finished in the new Deep Emerald Green shade with a contrasting black roof.
Engine and Performance Details
Infiniti has made a major mechanical change by replacing the older 3.5L V6 with a 2.0L VC-Turbo four-cylinder engine.
Engine Specifications
Engine: 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder VC-Turbo
Power: 268 horsepower
Torque: 286 lb-ft
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard, AWD available
Fuel type: Premium fuel required
Compared to the old V6, this engine produces around 30 horsepower less but delivers 16 lb-ft more torque.
Performance Observations
0 to 60 mph: Around 7.0 seconds in real-world testing
Slower than the previous V6 which managed around 6.6 seconds
Noticeable turbo lag at low speeds
Engine vibration and noise are clearly felt through the steering wheel and pedals
While mid-range torque feels strong, overall refinement is a step back. The engine lacks the smoothness and sound quality expected from a luxury SUV in this price range.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
One of the main reasons for switching to a four-cylinder engine is efficiency.
City: 22 mpg
Highway: 27 mpg
Combined: 24 mpg
Fuel tank capacity: 18.5 gallons
Estimated driving range: Up to 440 miles
In real-world driving, city mileage hovered closer to 20 mpg, with highway figures closer to 25 mpg.
Towing and Weight
Towing capacity: 6,000 lbs
Curb weight: Approximately 4,700 lbs
Despite the smaller engine, towing capacity remains among the best in the segment.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2026 QX60 borrows heavily from the design language of the larger QX80.
Key Exterior Highlights
New grille with flowing bamboo-inspired pattern
Updated Infiniti logo with illuminated 3D design
Projector LED headlights with piano-key style DRLs
More aggressive front bumper and splitter
Smoked LED tail lamps with black chrome badging
The Deep Emerald Green paint is a new color option and costs extra when paired with the two-tone black roof.
Dimensions and Stance
Wheelbase: 114.2 inches
Length: 198.1 inches
Ground clearance: 6.7 inches
The QX60 rides on a front-wheel-drive-based unibody platform shared with the Nissan Pathfinder.
Wheels, Suspension, and Ride Quality
Wheel size: 20-inch wheels standard across all trims
Tires: 255/50 R20 Bridgestone Alenza Sport
Suspension: Independent setup, no adaptive dampers
While handling feels stable and predictable, ride quality is firm. Sharp bumps and road imperfections are clearly felt, which feels out of place in a luxury SUV priced above $70,000.
Cargo Space and Practicality
Cargo capacity is one area where the QX60 falls behind competitors.
Cargo Volume
Behind third row: 14 cubic feet
With third row folded: 41 cubic feet
Maximum cargo space: 75 cubic feet
For comparison, the Lexus TX offers significantly more usable cargo room.
Cargo Area Features
Hands-free power tailgate exclusive to Autograph trim
Deep underfloor storage
Grocery bag hooks
12V power outlet
Manual folding third-row seats
Interior Design and Quality
The 2026 QX60 Autograph makes a strong first impression inside.
Key Interior Features
Semi-aniline quilted leather seats exclusive to Autograph
Dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and instrument cluster
Google built-in infotainment system
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Over-the-air updates
Material quality is excellent, with real wood trim, metal accents, and padded leather surfaces throughout most of the cabin.
Infotainment and Technology
The new infotainment system is one of the biggest upgrades.
Google Maps and Google Assistant built in
High-resolution 360-degree camera system
Head-up display
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 with hands-free driving support
Digital rearview camera mirror
The system is intuitive and far more advanced than the setup in the Nissan Pathfinder.
Audio System Experience
The Autograph trim comes with a 20-speaker Klipsch Reference Premium Audio System.
Speakers integrated into front headrests
Strong bass response
Noticeable improvement over the previous Bose system
Lower trims receive a 16-speaker setup.
Second Row Comfort
Captain’s chairs standard on Autograph and Sport trims
Heated seats
Manual sunshades
Flat floor design
Legroom measures around 37.7 inches, which is usable but not class-leading.
Third Row Space
The third row is best suited for children or shorter trips.
Legroom: Around 28 inches
Manual recline function
Roof cutout improves headroom
USB charging and air vents included
Space is noticeably tighter compared to rivals like the Lexus TX and Acura MDX.
Driving Experience Summary
What Works Well
Stable handling
Comfortable seats
Excellent interior design
Strong mid-range torque
What Needs Improvement
Engine noise and vibration
Turbo lag
Firm ride quality
Slower acceleration compared to the old V6
The QX60 feels like it needs an electrified powertrain to improve refinement and low-speed response.
Pricing and Trim Breakdown
2026 Infiniti QX60 Pricing Overview
Pure FWD: Around $51,590
Lux: Around $57,000
AWD option: Additional $2,000
Sport trim: Around $62,000
Autograph AWD: Around $67,000
With options, destination, and paint upgrades, the test vehicle reached approximately $72,000.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Infiniti QX60 is still a stylish and comfortable three-row luxury SUV with a strong interior and modern technology. The refreshed design and upgraded infotainment system clearly improve the overall experience.
However, replacing the V6 with a turbocharged four-cylinder has hurt refinement and driving satisfaction. At higher price points, rivals offer smoother powertrains, better ride quality, and more interior space.
If priced right, especially in lower trims, the QX60 remains a solid option. But in top-spec Autograph form, it feels expensive for what it delivers.
The QX60 has good fundamentals. With a better powertrain and ride tuning, it could easily be among the best in its segment.
