The INFINITI brand holds a special place in my personal automotive journey. I've owned a 2007 INFINITI M45 since 2010, the longest I've ever kept a vehicle. That car's silky V8 and smooth transmission have stood the test of time, even approaching 200,000 miles. It's a testament to INFINITI's engineering and design, and I still admire its performance and durability after all these years. Craig Keeyes, if you're reading this, I'd be happy to take you for a ride in the M45 for a little inspiration—it might spark some ideas for the future of INFINITI. With such a deep appreciation for the brand, I approached the 2024 INFINITI QX50 Autograph AWD with a mix of anticipation and skepticism. Compact luxury crossovers are among the most competitive segments in the market, dominated by heavyweights like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Could the QX50 Autograph prove itself as a worthy contender? I put it to the test on a 250-mile road trip from Atlanta to Savannah for my daughter's volleyball state playoffs, and the results may surprise you.
Daryl Killian
First Impressions: The Flagship Stands Out
The 2024 QX50 Autograph AWD represents the pinnacle of the QX50 lineup, and its attention to detail is evident from the moment you approach. The sculpted exterior design, highlighted by INFINITI's double-arch grille and crescent-shaped rear roof pillar, gives it a bold and confident stance. Our test model, finished in Premium Slate Gray with 20-inch wheels, exuded a refined elegance that turned heads during our journey.
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
Inside, the Autograph trim elevates the luxury experience with semi-aniline leather seats, open-pore wood trim, and Ultrasuede accents that wrap the cabin in a sense of sophistication. The second-row sliding and reclining seats and a panoramic moonroof created an inviting and airy interior perfect for long drives. Despite my initial hesitation about compact crossovers, the QX50 Autograph quickly felt like the right size—spacious enough for family trips yet compact enough to navigate urban settings easily.
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: An Engineered Marvel
At the heart of the QX50 Autograph is INFINITI's innovative VC-Turbo engine, a 2.0-liter marvel capable of seamlessly adjusting its compression ratio for optimal power or efficiency. Paired with the XTRONIC CVT, the engine produces 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. I was pleasantly surprised by the responsiveness and smoothness of this setup, even with my well-known aversion to CVTs.
On the highway, the QX50 Autograph AWD delivered impressive fuel economy—22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway—without compromising power when passing slower vehicles. The drivetrain's ability to tow up to 3,000 pounds, a standout feature for the Autograph trim, adds versatility that competitors like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC can't always match.
Road Trip Ready: Comfort and Confidence
For our road trip to Savannah, the QX50 Autograph AWD truly shined. Its ProPILOT Assist system, with lane-centering and adaptive cruise control, made the three-and-a-half-hour drive along Georgia's I-16 both relaxing and safe. The system provided just the right level of assistance, reducing fatigue while keeping me engaged.
The cabin's quietness, even at highway speeds, allowed us to fully enjoy the Bose® Performance Series Audio System. This system provided crystal-clear sound quality for my wife's carefully curated playlist while she also got some work done on the way. With four USB ports and a wireless charging pad, the QX50 ensured all devices stayed powered throughout the trip—an essential for any family adventure.
Design and Versatility: Tailored for Families and Professionals
The QX50 Autograph balances style and functionality with precision. The second-row seats, which slide and recline, allowed us to optimize space for passengers and luggage. With the seats folded flat, the cargo area expanded to 64.4 cubic feet (with the panoramic moonroof), effortlessly accommodating travel bags and extra volleyball gear.
Daryl Killian
The motion-activated power liftgate was particularly helpful when loading the cargo bay. And while the dual-screen infotainment system feels dated in an era dominated by single-screen layouts, it performed well in practice. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, combined with INFINITI's intuitive controls, ensured that staying connected and entertained was hassle-free.
Areas for Improvement: A Dashboard Refresh
The QX50 Autograph AWD is undeniably impressive, but there's room for refinement. While the dual-screen infotainment system works well, its design feels out of place compared to rivals' sleek, minimalist interfaces. A more modern dashboard layout would elevate the overall cabin experience to match the vehicle's premium positioning.
Final Thoughts: A Flagship Worthy of Attention
The 2024 INFINITI QX50 Autograph AWD stands out as a thoughtfully engineered and well-rounded luxury crossover. Its innovative powertrain, upscale interior, and practical features make it a compelling choice for families and professionals seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. While it faces stiff competition in the segment, the Autograph trim's attention to detail and capability—such as its towing capacity—set it apart.
Daryl Killian
The QX50 Autograph AWD delivers on INFINITI's promise of forward-thinking luxury for those who value innovation and craftsmanship. And for those like me who fondly remember the V8 excellence of models like the M45, the QX50 Autograph serves as a reminder that INFINITI continues to evolve without losing its essence.
INFINITI
Specifications
- MSRP Base Price: $41,000.00
- Price As Tested: $61,610.00
- 0 – 60 mph: 6.7 Seconds
- MPG: 22 City 28 HWY
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