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The Infiniti QX50.

Courtesy photo

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The Infiniti QX50.

Courtesy photo

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A 2022 Infiniti QX50.

Courtesy photo

4 / 5

The Infiniti QX50.

Courtesy photo

5 / 5

A 2022 Infiniti QX50.

Courtesy photo

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We are always excited to embark on an exhilarating weeklong test drive with the latest offering from any of the luxury brands, especially Infiniti, and this week it was the 2024 Infiniti QX50 Autograph AWD SUV that was loaned to us to enjoy.

Over the course of our seven days with the small “Ute,” we explored the local roads of our hometown and ventured into the surrounding areas as much as the weather would permit in February.

This did allow us to put the luxury SUV to the test in various driving conditions, including some inclement weather. Let’s look at all the fantastic features that make the QX50 a great choice in the entry-level small-SUV market.

Design and comfort

Getting into the QX50 Autograph trim, we were very impressed by its sleek and sophisticated design. It is definitely a large step above even a top-trim Nisan Rogue, its brother in the other division. There were many enhancements that we enjoyed, like suede insets in the doors, dash and center console along with the quilted leather seats, which were a very elegant touch.

The exterior boasted clean lines, a bold grille and striking LED headlights that commanded attention on the road. This all added up to make driving the smallest SUV in the Infiniti stable a joy to look forward to each day.

Deanne, an avid fan of spacious interiors, found ample legroom and headspace in both the front and rear seats, making longer drives a joy — and even the once-a-week trip to Costco for work easy to accomplish with all the space in the back.

The heated and ventilated seats, coupled with the tri-zone automatic climate control, ensured optimal comfort regardless of the weather outside. Craig, on the other hand, appreciated the panoramic moonroof, which provided stunning views of the surrounding landscapes during an afternoon drive through the picturesque Utah County countryside, or even on a mundane commute to work.

Performance and handling

Equipped with a potent 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, the QX50 Autograph delivered a dynamic driving experience. We tested its acceleration on the open highways, noting the seamless power delivery and a responsive throttle response. The four-cylinder engine delivered a very impressive 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque and we managed a nice 26 mpg for the week.

Deanne, who navigates tight city streets and crowded parking lots daily, found the QX50’s nimble handling and precise steering to be a standout feature. Being smaller in stature, the SUV felt agile and maneuverable, making urban driving effortless.

The advanced ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link technology further eased our journey, offering adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance to reduce any driving fatigue on long stretches of highway, where the car practically took over the driving.

Technology and connectivity

We both love having lots of technology in a new vehicle and we were eager to explore the array of cutting-edge features packed into the QX50. The dual-screen infotainment system caught our attention again, as it is a unique way of providing intuitive access to navigation, entertainment and vehicle settings on multiple screens.

The addition of a heads-up display was not lost on us either, as having our speed projected right on the windshield is always an added bonus.

The wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allowed us to seamlessly connect our smartphones and access our favorite apps on the go.

Of course, during our time in the QX50, we were always checking out the sound system, and the Bose Performance Series audio system proved to be fantastic. It delivered crisp and immersive sound quality, perfect for enjoying our favorite playlists or podcasts.

Deanne, meanwhile, appreciated the convenience of the hands-free liftgate, which made loading and unloading groceries a breeze, especially when her hands were full after coming out of the store.

Safety and peace of mind

Safety is paramount for any vehicle, and the QX50 impressed us as Infiniti has done in the past, with its comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies. The forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection and blind spot intervention provided an extra layer of protection, alerting us to potential hazards and even taking corrective action when necessary.

During our time in the QX50 throughout the week, we encountered diverse road conditions, from winding mountain roads to busy city streets, in very differing weather conditions. The intelligent all-wheel drive system effortlessly adapted to these changes, ensuring optimal traction and stability at all times. Additionally, the around view monitor with moving object detection proved invaluable when maneuvering in tight parking spaces, providing a 360-degree view of their surroundings and alerting us to any obstacles.

Everything in small package

After a week spent behind the wheel of the 2024 Infiniti QX50 Autograph, we were thoroughly impressed by its performance, comfort and advanced technology. From cruising through the streets of Springville to embarking on scenic drives in the surrounding areas, the QX50 proved to be the perfect companion for any adventure we could think of.

The 2024 Infiniti QX50 Autograph SWD SUV not only elevated our daily drives but also proved to be a versatile companion for exploring the diverse landscapes surrounding our hometown.

In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury SUVs, the Infiniti QX50 Autograph stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence.

Base price: $57,900

Destination charge: $1,195

Price as driven: $61,610

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