Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (240 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2025
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation, with a clear consensus that the 2016-2017 (first-generation) models are highly regarded, while the 2019+ (second-generation) models are widely criticized.
11 problems reported (2 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVC-Turbo engine reliability
Catastrophic engine failures and fires due to manufacturing defects in engine bearings, leading to a major recall for 2019-2021 models.
- Very frequentCVT transmission
Described as "rubber bandy," unrefined, not luxurious, and a "time bomb" with long-term reliability concerns.
- RecurrentCooling system leaks
Radiator may fail approximately every 80,000 miles; heater hose coupler on passenger side prone to breaking.
+ 8 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentSunroof drain tube routing
Can lead to water intrusion into passenger floorboard if not rerouted.
- RecurrentGeneral build quality and rattles
Squeaks and creaks from various interior components, including power seats.
- RecurrentFaulty advanced safety systems
Front collision prevention/emergency braking system engaging erroneously ("ghost braking").
- RecurrentInfotainment system
Widely criticized as outdated, laggy, and inferior to competitors.
- IsolatedWheel bearing durability
May require replacement.
- IsolatedCabin air filter replacement
Described as difficult and time-consuming to access.
- IsolatedElectrical/control module failures
Including engine temperature control module failures.
- IsolatedPoor real-world fuel economy
Does not live up to the technological promise of the variable compression engine.
The version owners recommend
The 2016-2017 QX50 with the 3.7L V6 engine, RWD or AWD, and the 7-speed automatic transmission is overwhelmingly recommended as the best version. Specific praise is given to the 2016 model year, which received a stretched wheelbase for increased rear legroom. This generation is celebrated for its reliability, engaging drive, and strong value on the used market. For the second generation, no specific trim or version receives positive consensus; feedback is uniformly negative regarding the fundamental powertrain and quality.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Acura RDX, Lexus NX, BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Porsche Macan.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation, with a clear consensus that the 2016-2017 (first-generation) models are highly regarded, while the 2019+ (second-generation) models are widely criticized. The first-generation QX50, equipped with the 3.7L V6 and a 7-speed automatic transmission, is consistently praised for its powerful, reliable engine, sporty handling derived from the FM platform shared with the 370Z and G37, and strong value as a used vehicle. Owner satisfaction for these models is very high, with reports of trouble-free ownership up to high mileages. In stark contrast, the second-generation model (2019+) is heavily criticized for its 2.0L VC-Turbo engine and CVT transmission, which are described as unrefined, unreliable, and a significant downgrade from the previous powertrain. This generation is faulted for feeling cheap, offering poor value at its MSRP, having a dated infotainment system, and suffering from numerous quality and reliability issues. The brand's overall decline and the model's impending discontinuation further negatively impact perception.
Positioning vs competitors
The first-generation (2016-2017) QX50 is positioned as a sporty, rear-wheel-drive-based performance bargain with a proven V6, often compared favorably to more expensive competitors like the Porsche Macan for handling. It is seen as offering superior driving dynamics and power compared to mainstream crossovers like the Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V at a used price point. The second-generation (2019+) model is positioned as an underperforming entry in the luxury compact SUV segment. It is consistently described as inferior to rivals like the Acura RDX (noted for a better powertrain), Lexus NX (superior refinement and reliability), and German competitors (better luxury feel and performance), while also being criticized for lacking the technology and value of newer entrants like the Genesis GV70. It is frequently characterized as a "glorified Nissan Rogue" rather than a true luxury vehicle.
Recommended configurations
For the first generation (2016-2017): The 3.7L V6 with the 7-speed automatic transmission. AWD is noted as beneficial for traction and resale value. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is recommended, specifically checking the radiator and cooling system couplers for leaks, sunroof drains, and wheel bearings. For the second generation (2019+): No positive configuration recommendations are present in the data. Warnings are given to avoid this generation entirely due to the CVT and engine reliability concerns.
General recommendations
Strongly consider a used 2016-2017 QX50 with the V6 and 7-speed automatic as a high-value, reliable, and fun-to-drive used luxury crossover. Perform a detailed inspection focusing on known cooling system issues. Avoid the 2019+ QX50 with the 2.0L VC-Turbo and CVT due to widespread reports of poor reliability, lackluster performance, and depreciating value. If considering a new second-generation model, aggressive discounts may be available, but the fundamental powertrain and quality criticisms remain. Verify any open recalls, particularly for engine bearing failures on 2019-2021 VC-Turbo models. Be aware of the brand's diminished presence and potential challenges with long-term dealer service.
Remarks
The QX50 represents two fundamentally different vehicles: a sporty, rear-drive-based crossover (2016-2017) and a front-drive-based, CVT-equipped crossover (2019+). Owner feedback is almost exclusively positive for the first and negative for the second. The 2019+ redesign is seen as a major misstep, sacrificing a beloved, reliable powertrain for a complex and problematic one that failed to deliver promised efficiency or refinement. The associated engine recall for bearing failures is a significant black mark. The model's and brand's declining fate, including announced discontinuation, heavily influences owner perceptions and concerns about future resale value and service support. Analysis based on approximately 55 substantive owner discussions and comments.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2019. Years to avoid: 2022, 2021, 2019Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Infiniti QX50 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 1 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2024 | 4 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 4 | 1 | power train |
| 2022 | 16 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 40 | 2 | engine |
| 2020 | 32 | 2 | engine |
| 2019 | 139 | 3 | engine |
| 2017 | 13 | 0 | air bags |
| 2016 | 19 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2015 | 3 | 0 | power train |
| 2014 | 2 | 0 | structure |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices11 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2024 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 24V154000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
2023 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 24V154000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024 Titan, Frontier, Infiniti QX60, Pathfinder, 2023-2024 Sentra, Versa, Kicks, Infiniti QX50, and 2023 Rogue vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the driver's air bag inflator may absorb moisture, and cause the air bag to deploy improperly.
2022 · latches/locks/linkages:doors:lockcampaign 23V187000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023 INFINITI QX55 and 2022 INFINITI QX50 vehicles. The incorrect door latch may have been installed in the front right-side passenger door lock assembly, preventing the front right-side door lock from automatically locking.
2022 · engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanicalcampaign 25V437000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Rogue, 2019-2020 Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. The engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure.
2021 · suspension:rear:axle:spindlecampaign 21V402000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Nissan Murano, INFINITI QX60, 2021 Nissan GT-R, INFINITI QX50, and Q50 vehicles. The front steering knuckle or rear axle housing may have insufficient strength due to improper heat-treatment.
2021 · engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanicalcampaign 25V437000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Rogue, 2019-2020 Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. The engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure.
2020 · tirescampaign 21V025000
Nissan North America, Inc. (INFINITI) is recalling certain 2020 INFINITI QX50 vehicles. The text of the Tire and Loading Information placard, including the tire size and loading capacity, may be illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2020 · engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanicalcampaign 25V437000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Rogue, 2019-2020 Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. The engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure.
2019 · air bags:knee bolstercampaign 18V593000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2019 INFINITI QX50 vehicles. In the event of a crash in very cold temperatures, the trim cover may separate unexpectedly from the passenger-side knee air bag module instead of splitting at the trim cover tear seam as designed.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2019 · engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanicalcampaign 25V437000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Rogue, 2019-2020 Altima, 2019-2022 Infiniti QX50, and 2022 Infiniti QX55 vehicles equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L or 4-cylinder 2.0L variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engines. The engine bearings may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine failure.
Specifications
2.0 VC-Turbo XTRONIC
2.0L 4-cylinder · 272 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2017–2026