Acura
SLX
Infiniti
QX4
Acura SLX vs Infiniti QX4: 1998 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Infiniti QX4 comes out ahead of the Acura SLX on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
SLX
Overall
Nostalgic curiosity with minimal ownership data for ultra-rare rebadged luxury SUV, regarded as forgotten automotive oddity representing Acura's desperate 1990s attempt competing against Lexus LX450. Praised for extreme rarity creating collector appeal (most owners report never seeing another SLX), rugged Isuzu Trooper underpinnings providing bulletproof 3.2L/3.5L V6 engines and legitimate body-on-frame 4x4 capability, attractive 1990s Japanese luxury aesthetic, and simple mechanical design enabling straightforward maintenance. However, widespread acknowledgment centers on low-effort rebadging criticism (minimal differentiation from Isuzu Trooper beyond badges and leather), GM automatic transmission representing weak point prone to failure, expensive and difficult parts sourcing for Acura-specific trim pieces, commercial failure resulting only 2,095 total units sold United States 1996-1999 creating parts scarcity, and fundamental identity crisis positioning expensive rebadge versus authentic Honda engineering.
Best version to buy
3.5L V6 (1998-1999) The 1998-1999 model years with upgraded 3.5L DOHC V6 producing 215 hp (versus 190 hp 3.2L SOHC 1996-1997) represent most desirable specification offering improved power delivery and refinement. All SLX models feature identical luxury equipment including leather seats, power everything, premium audio, alloy wheels.
Known issues
- ⚠• GM 4L30-E automatic transmission failures, notorious weak point inherited from Isuzu Trooper, sluggish shifting, complete failures common high mileage, replacement cost $2,500-$4,000, universal criticism as inadequate for vehicle weight a…
QX4
Overall
The sentiment among owners is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by strong appreciation for the vehicle's durability, reliability, and comfort. The QX4 is consistently praised as a robust, long-lasting SUV capable of reaching very high mileages (300,000 to 400,000 miles/480,000 to 640,000 km) with proper maintenance. Owners value its comfortable ride, practical size, and the perception that it was built during a period of high quality for Nissan/Infiniti.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to specify a model year or trim as the definitive "best version." Feedback spans the entire 1997-2004 production run, with specific issues (like strut tower rust) tied to certain years but not definitively isolated to a single model year in the provided data. The vehicle's reputation for longevity is applied broadly across the generation.
Known issues
- ⚠Structural rust in front strut towers: can lead to collapse and loss of control; subject to a manufacturer recall/campaign. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Oil consumption: the 3.5L V6 engine (VQ35DE) is noted as being prone to burning oil; requires regular level checks. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Idle and hesitation problems: issues with idle air control, throttle position sensors, mass air flow sensors, and potential vacuum leaks causing rough idle and acceleration hesitation. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Infiniti QX4 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Acura SLX, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Infiniti QX4 are a dealbreaker, the Acura SLX is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura SLX or the Infiniti QX4?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Infiniti QX4 than the Acura SLX. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Acura SLX or the Infiniti QX4?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura SLX or the Infiniti QX4?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura SLX or the Infiniti QX4?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Acura SLX than the Infiniti QX4. See the known issues comparison above.