New for 2016

This year's QX50 is 3.2 inches longer than last year's model, adding even more legroom to its already spacious cabin.

Luxury Meets Capability

As a sports utility vehicle, the 2016 Infiniti QX50 is meant to have the power and capacity to take whatever you need, wherever you need it to be. But who says doing so can't be stylish? The QX50 combines the refined luxury of Infiniti's sports sedan platform with the capability and spaciousness of an SUV.

Powertrain and Performance

If you're looking for an SUV with power, Infiniti has delivered. The QX50's powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine is capable of delivering 325 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to the placement of that engine (right behind its front axle), the 2016 QX50 also has excellent weight distribution, which translates into exquisite handling. In terms of mileage, you can expect an EPA city/highway driving of 17/24 mpg.*

Features and Trims

Drivers have two models to choose from when it comes to this year's QX50: rear-drive and all-wheel drive. The former starts at $34,450,** while the latter starts at $35,850.** Both model come with a wide variety of luxury features, including Intelligent Key with illuminated push button ignition, dual-zone climate control, 8-way power driver's seat, Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, and more.

Regardless of the model, drivers can choose from the same four optional packages when it comes to further customizing their new QX50: the Premium Package, the Premium Plus Package, the Deluxe Touring Package, and the Technology Package.

The Premium Package comes with dual occupant memory, maple interior accents, and advanced climate control system, and a Bose® 11-speaker Premium Audio system, making your vehicle even more luxurious. The Premium Plus Package makes your drive easier by adding the Infiniti Navigation System, Infiniti Voice Recognition, NavTraffic, NavWeather, and Around View® Monitor with Front and Rear Sonar Systems.

The Deluxe Touring Package makes things more comfortable by adding 2-way driver's seat power lumbar support, power up-folding 2nd row seats, and an 8-way front-passenger's seat. Finally, the Technology Package practically gives you an invisible co-pilot, between the Intelligent Cruise Control, Distance Control Assist, Blind Spot Warning System, and more.

Design

Style-wise, the 2016 Infiniti QX50 is a winner from start to finish. With the wheelbase of a sports sedan and the taller ride height of an SUV, the QX50 looks as smooth as freshly oiled mahogany. Although available in seven colors (Majestic White, Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian, Graphite Shadow, Midnight Garnet, Malbec Black, and Hagane Blue), the vehicle looks stunning in any of them.

As is to be expected, the interior of the QX50 is nothing short of exquisite. Leather-appointed seating, and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift-knob, not to mention the black laquer and aluminum interior trim, all complement each other and add to the luxury feel of the vehicle. The extended wheelbase of the QX50 makes things even more comfortable, transforming an already roomy interior into a living room you can drive around. And with fold-flat seats, that spacious legroom easily transforms into cargo space.

Safety

You'll find every modern safety feature you'd expect to in the 2016 QX50 (even if drivers don't opt for the Technology Package): anti-lock brakes; a traction control system; vehicle dynamic control; front, side, and curtain airbags; brake assist; and more.

Bottom Line

The 2016 QX50 is better than ever this model year. If you're in need of an SUV that's well-appointed, comfortable, stylish, powerful, and fun to drive, why look at anything else? To schedule a test drive, be sure to call, contact us online, or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 today.

*2016 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.

**All prices are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license, and options.

Image: Infiniti