Infiniti
QX50
Lexus
NX
Infiniti QX50 vs Lexus NX: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
The Infiniti QX50 offers power, while the Lexus NX excels at fuel economy instead. Choose the Infiniti QX50 if you prioritize power in daily driving, or the Lexus NX if fuel economy matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
QX50
Overall
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.
Best version to buy
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.
Known issues
- ⚠**First Generation (2016-2017, 3.7L V6):** Cooling system leaks: radiator may fail approximately every 80,000 miles; heater hose coupler on passenger side prone to breaking. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**Second Generation (2019+, 2.0L VC-Turbo & CVT):** VC-Turbo engine reliability: catastrophic engine failures and fires due to manufacturing defects in engine bearings, leading to a major recall for 2019-2021 models.
NX
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment, heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. The vehicle is widely praised for its exceptional long-term reliability, with the 2015-2021 generation specifically highlighted as "bulletproof." Owners of the post-2022 redesign appreciate the updated technology, smoother ride quality, quieter cabin, and refined interior. However, significant criticism is directed at specific, recurring issues: a very frequent and severe 12V battery drain problem in NX 350h hybrid models, leading to repeated dead batteries; various electrical gremlins and rattles in multiple generations; and a powertrain in earlier turbo models (200t/300) described as underwhelming, with sluggish acceleration and a requirement for premium fuel.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" trim or version. Feedback is split by powertrain: the hybrid (350h) is favored for its fuel efficiency and smoothness, but is plagued by battery issues.
Known issues
- ⚠12V Battery Drain (Hybrid Models): Chronic and severe issue causing dead batteries, requiring frequent jumps or trickle chargers, occurs even with regular driving. Owners report multiple roadside assistance calls. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Various Electrical Gremlins: Includes malfunctioning power liftgate (faulty pinch sensors), non-working window switches, delayed key fob response, hands-free microphone failure, "reduced engine power" warnings with no drivability loss, and…
- ⚠Interior Rattles and Build Quality: Rattles from dashboard, center console, infotainment screen, seatbelt area, overhead light, and doors. Loose trim pieces and poorly finished components (e.g., paddle shifter edges).
The verdict
The Lexus NX is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Infiniti QX50, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Infiniti QX50 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti QX50 or the Lexus NX?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Infiniti QX50 and the Lexus NX. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti QX50 or the Lexus NX?
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 Infiniti QX50 or the Lexus NX?
The Lexus NX is more fuel-efficient on paper: 0.9-1.1 L/100km combined versus 12.1 L/100km for the Infiniti QX50, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti QX50 or the Lexus NX?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.