Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 2025
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed to negative sentiment overall.
7 problems reported (3 very frequent, 4 recurrent) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentVC-Turbo engine failure risk
Major recall for manufacturing defects in engine bearings (main, A-, C-, L-link) leading to engine damage, catastrophic failure, loss of motive power, and potential engine fire. An incident involving a 2022 QX55 resulting in an engine fire is specifically cited in recall documents.
- Very frequentCVT transmission reliability and performance
Transmission described as "notoriously disliked," with a high likelihood of failure around 50,000-100,000 miles, cited as a ~$6,000 USD repair. Driving character is criticized as "weird," with delayed, "soupy" acceleration and poor communication between the engine and transmission.
- Very frequentDated and problematic infotainment/technology
Interior tech described as "extremely dated," "from 2008," and "woefully behind." Specific glitches reported include: entertainment system reboots, Bluetooth turning off by itself, and a slow, non-intuitive interface. The dual-screen setup is particularly panned.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectrical gremlins
Owners report "weird electrical problems" including malfunctioning door lock actuators, parking sensors misfiring, and driver's seat memory not returning to the set position.
- RecurrentExcessive cabin noise
Noted as "quite loud on highways," with one owner reporting hearing air noise from the top of the windshield.
- RecurrentPoor value proposition
Criticized for starting at approximately $7,500 USD more than the mechanically identical but more spacious QX50, while offering inferior performance and economy compared to rivals. Deemed overpriced for its overall package.
- RecurrentReduced cargo utility
The coupe styling significantly cuts into cargo space compared to the QX50, making it comparable to a compact car.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available. One owner mentions having an "Essential" trim with ProPilot upgrades and appreciating features like a head-up display, while a loaner "Sensory" trim was noted to have fewer toys. No consensus on a recommended trim level emerges from the discussions.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Acura RDX, Lexus NX, Lexus RX, BMW X4 and Volvo XC40.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed to negative sentiment overall. The vehicle is acknowledged for its attractive, sporty coupe-SUV styling, which several owners find to be a standout feature. It is also noted for being comfortable for shorter drivers, offering good seat adjustment and a wide view. However, sentiment is heavily tempered by widespread and severe criticism of its core mechanical components. The 2.0L VC-Turbo engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) are the focal points of significant reliability concerns, culminating in a major safety recall for potential catastrophic engine failure and fire risk. The powertrain is also frequently described as delivering a disconnected, delayed, and unsatisfying driving experience, with a "soupy" and odd acceleration feel. The interior technology is uniformly criticized as being extremely dated, uncompetitive, and plagued by electrical glitches. The consensus positions the QX55 as an aesthetically pleasing but fundamentally flawed vehicle that is overpriced for its compromised package, especially when compared to its more practical and mechanically identical sibling, the QX50.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a less practical, style-focused variant of the QX50, which itself is seen as lagging behind competitors. Frequently compared unfavorably to the Acura RDX for driving dynamics, technology, and lack of a sophisticated AWD system. Lexus models (NX, RX) are cited as superior in reliability, interior refinement, fuel economy, and resale value. The BMW X4 is acknowledged as a more engaging, rear-wheel-drive-based competitor. Volvo EVs (XC40, C40) are considered as modern alternatives with better tech. The vehicle is often described as offering poor value, starting at a significant premium over the QX50 while sacrificing cargo space and offering no mechanical or technological advantages.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available. One owner strongly recommends purchasing only with a warranty that covers the transmission, and potentially the engine, due to known reliability risks. Another owner suggests verifying the vehicle's inclusion in and repair status for the VC-Turbo engine recall before purchase.
General recommendations
Not recommended for driving enthusiasts or buyers prioritizing technology, reliability, or value. May only be suitable for buyers who prioritize the specific coupe-SUV styling above all other factors and who secure a comprehensive warranty. Essential due diligence includes: verifying the vehicle's status regarding the VC-Turbo engine recall (NHTSA 25V437) and ensuring any required inspection/repairs are completed; obtaining an extended warranty that explicitly covers the CVT transmission and VC-Turbo engine; and conducting an extensive test drive to evaluate the powertrain's driving feel and the dated infotainment system. Aggressive negotiation is suggested due to known high dealer inventory and poor sales.
Remarks
The VC-Turbo engine recall (R25B2) is a critical and active concern. As of August 2025, the manufacturer (Nissan/Infiniti) had temporarily suspended the inspection and repair campaign to re-evaluate the method and manage parts availability, and had paused new orders for the QX50/QX55 in the U.S. market. Vehicles that receive the dealer inspection have their powertrain warranty extended to 10 years or 120,000 miles. The QX55 is widely perceived as a cynical product attempting to capitalize on coupe-SUV styling without addressing the fundamental shortcomings of the QX50 platform, which has been in production since 2019 with minimal updates. Owner discussions suggest deep frustration with the brand's direction, noting that Infiniti has fallen behind competitors and appears to have given up on meaningful investment in its ICE lineup. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and numerous technical/recall reports.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
Recall notices2 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · 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.
Specifications
2.0i Turbo IAWD
2.0L 4-cylinder · 268 hp · AWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2021–2026