Infiniti Expands with the 2027 QX65

 

The QX65 is a luxury two-row SUV from Infiniti. This is the first of several all-new vehicles from Infiniti - Photo by Brian Moody 


Years ago, luxury automaker Infiniti had many compelling vehicles like the FX45, G37, M30 convertible, M45, and Q45 so there’s a heritage with the brand that many enthusiasts and buyers remember. 


In recent years, the QX80 has been a bright spot in the Infiniti lineup, but others, like the FX, have long since vanished.  


That was yesterday. Today, Infiniti says they will have 5 new models within the next five years, one of which is the new 2027 QX65, a luxury performance-oriented 2-row SUV. If you're imagining an FX-type vehicle, you're not alone. While the new QX65 lacks the old FX's rough edges, it does have some of the FX’s important attributes;  it's good-looking, it has an opulent interior, and it has a compelling list of standard and optional features.


The Infiniti FX could be had with a V6 or V8 engine. If you’re expecting a V8 in a new midsize SUV, you just haven’t been paying attention. The FX45’s 4.5L V8 was good for 315 to 320 hp, depending on the model year. There was even an FX50 with a 390 hp V8. 


But the FX had limitations, specifically interior space and ride comfort. While the new QX65 might be similar to an FX in spirit, it’s much more useful and refined for everyday use. 


Bosting such features as 20 or 21-inch wheels, quilted leather interior, an excellent balance of cargo-carrying and passenger space, and an available Klipsch audio system, the new QX65 is well-rounded in many ways. 




Competition is Tough


QX65 competitors include the segment-defining Lexus RX, as well as the excellent Genesis GV80, Lincoln Nautilus, and Cadillac XT5. The Infiniti’s advantage here is that it has a bit of an edge when it comes to the fun part of driving. 


Powered by a 268 hp, VC turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine and connected to a 9-speed automatic transmission, the QX65 has a level of refinement and that “just right” quality that’s most obvious in the QX80. A sport mode adds a bit of fun, mostly in the way the engine sounds and by holding shifts a little longer than usual, and downshifting sooner than usual. Automatic downshifts are part of the software tweaks as well. Sport mode also gives the QX65 a more pronounced engine sound from inside the cabin. 


The QX65 feels a little heavy. While this works against it for any kind of FX45 style, backroad sports car vibe, it works in its favor by giving it a stable, solid feel on the road, a quality most luxury SUV buyers will want. Something about the new QX65 feels like Infiniti engineers are looking to one-up Lexus, giving the vehicle an ultra-smooth demeanor when accelerating and cruising on the highway. The QX65 simply feels like it’s screwed together just a little more tightly than other models in its class, including other Infiniti models. 


And the QX56 isn't just a good luxury crossover SUV; it's also part of a growing and in-demand segment. The two-row premium midsize SUV segment makes up 42 percent of the premium segment. Not only does this give shoppers more choices, but it will also make Infiniti dealers very happy. 


Three Levels of Luxury


Available in three distinct trim levels: Luxe, Sport, and Autograph. "Autograph" is Infiniti-speak for "top of the line" and includes such features as a head-up display, a 20-speaker Klipsch audio system with a high-tech personalized sound feature, headrest speakers, available red interior, real wood trim, premium leather with massaging front seats, and tons of other fancy stuff. The Autograph version is a $64,000 luxury SUV.





QX65 Sport is a little more affordable but with plenty of luxury. Buyers still get the high-end Klipsch audio system, but with 16 speakers instead of 20, minus the headrest-mounted speakers. Customizable interior lighting, 3D 360-degree parking camera, and ventilated front seats. The Sport trim is under $60,000, including destination.


Even the base trim, called Luxe, includes expected luxury features like 20-inch wheels, a lighted Infiniti logo, a panoramic sunroof, dual digital screens, and Pro-Pilot Assist automated driver assist tech. 


With the 2027 QX65, Infiniti's lineup expands to three luxury SUVs: QX65, QX60, and QX80. While the QX65 is the entry point into the Infiniti brand, it doesn't feel like a base model or basic at all.


Infiniti has a rich heritage of segment-defining cars and SUVs. The future looks bright for Infiniti once again. Future vehicles should include a performance sedan (let's all write to Santa and ask for a V6), another body-on-frame luxury SUV, and a hybrid small to midsize SUV. 


-Brian Moody


See more of the QX65 on TikTok

 



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