2027 Infiniti QX65 First Look: Dang, It Looks Good

Remember the Infinti FX? It was a model that helped pioneer the sleek, low-slung sporty SUV. Thanks to its big wheels, athletic stance, and carlike driving dynamics, it was a statement-making crossover that proved moving people and cargo could be cool. Now Infiniti’s hoping to channel some of that FX spirit with its all-new 2027 Infiniti QX65.

Infiniti’s current lineup of SUVs features sharp design cues and opulent interiors, and the entry-level QX65 is shaping up to offer more of the same. Although it somewhat confusingly slots below the three-row QX60 despite having a higher number in its name, the newest Infiniti looks dang good, whatever the number.

Textured Surfaces All Over

After getting a good long look at a production version of the 2027 QX65, it’s clear that the swoopy lines of the QX65 Monograph Concept that previewed the new model have carried over almost identically. Short overhangs back up to big wheels, with the greenhouse arching gracefully above a muscular shoulder line. The bamboo-forest-inspired grille cribs from Infiniti’s other current models and looks just as textured here, with checkered LED lighting further dressing up its face for a pinstriping effect. Out back, a full-width LED taillight echoes the same vertical checkering as the front.

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For the theatrical among us, there’s also a trick welcome lighting sequence that projects a wing-like shape onto the ground.

The orangey-red you see in the photos is called Sunfire Red—a paint that has “genuine” gold-coated glass flecks, according to Infiniti’s press release. It employs three layers of paint to achieve the desired look and seems to change shade depending on the lighting.

Inside, more luxurious appointments await. All QX65 trims get a dual-screen setup for the driver and infotainment with 12.3-inch displays each. Standard Google built-in apps bring Google Maps and Google Assistant to carry out daily tasks; more can be downloaded via Google Play. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come as standard.

The second row of the two-row SUV can recline, fold, and slide, so you can choose between maximizing passenger room or cargo capacity. Infiniti quotes trunk volume behind the second row to be 35.8 cubic feet. How usable that trunk is for real-life situations, especially given the SUV’s sloping roof, remains to be seen.

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A Four-Cylinder Across All Trims

Infiniti said it designed its SUV with big wheels and low-profile tires in mind, clearly aiming for a more athletic stance. To further augment the experience, the QX65 will utilize active noise cancelling technology to help cut down on unpleasant road noise, all while employing its Active Sound Enhancement system to better hear the exhaust note.

Speaking of what you’ll hear, all QX65s are powered by an updated version of Nissan/Infiniti’s turbocharged 2.0-liter variable compression engine pushing a claimed 268 hp and 286 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission, power is sent to all four wheels via a standard all-wheel-drive system, and Infiniti says it’s capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds with the right equipment.

Historically, we’ve been less than impressed by the variable compression four-banger in the QX60. Responsiveness hasn’t traditionally been a strength as it can take a beat to get up to highway speeds, although it’s decent enough in around-town driving. Infiniti promises the newly massaged engine will be better; we’ll see how it does when we get one in to test.

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The Autograph Trim Has All the Bells and Whistles

The QX65 will be offered in three trims: Luxe, Sport, and Autograph. Luxe models get all the basics: the 12.3-inch driver screen, the 12.3-inch infotainment screen, an 11-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, powered and heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and advanced adaptive cruise control.

Sport QX65s get all the Luxe features, as well as Sport-exclusive design elements such as 20-inch black alloy wheels, its own unique grille, and gloss black roof rails, door trim, window trim, rear bumper protector, and emblems. Inside, you’ll be treated to a suite of safety cameras and the 16-speaker Klipsch premium sound system.

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At the top step is the fancy Autograph trim, with luxury features such as open-pore wood interior trim, semi-aniline quilted and perforated leather seats, massaging front seats, heated rear seats, head-up display, and the 20-speaker Klipsch sound system with headrest speakers. Bigger, 21-inch machined-alloy wheels also provide added visual distinction.

Here is where you’ll also find the tow package highlighted by Nissan/Infiniti’s Trail Sway Control technology. Add the technology package to the Autograph mix, and you get a 3D around-view monitor and the hands-free-capable ProPilot Assist 2.1 system.

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How Much?

Somewhat confusingly given the two SUVs’ numeric badging, prices for the QX65 slot just below the equivalent QX60 Luxe AWD, starting at $55,535 for the Luxe, $57,235 for the Sport, and $64,135 for the Autograph. It’s a reasonable jumping-off point for a luxury SUV with standard all-wheel drive, and it continues Infiniti’s philosophy of offering upscale amenities for not a ton of money. If you don’t really need the QX60’s third row, maybe the solution is to remove it from the mix entirely and opt for the sweet-looking QX65 instead.

Even better, the new QX65 will be built in the good old U.S.A. at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee, plant, with deliveries set to start early this summer.

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