The 2022 Infiniti QX55 Takes the Crossover Coupe To a New Level

Infiniti’s first-ever crossover coupe, the QX50, took the market by storm. Its distinct styling and ‘wow’ factor led to sales far exceeding expectations. What happens when you take a great idea and make it even better? Well, the result might be the 2022 QX55. This new vehicle is everything to love about the QX50—that sleek design and elegant look—with a bonus. It comes with second-row captain’s chairs as standard!

Aerodynamic efficiency was a major consideration in designing the QX55’s shape. Infiniti says it has zero lift at high speeds and low drag, both important for fuel eff ciency and stability at speed. But Infiniti also wanted an aggressive appearance without resorting to tacked-on fender flares or other styling gimmicks. In the end, the QX55 is something special. 

Best Features of 2022 Infiniti QX55

The standard engine for the 2022 Infiniti QX55 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and the only transmission available is a continuously variable automatic (CVT). The QX55 should be capable of delivering quick acceleration, but you can expect it to have notably less power than other luxury crossover SUVs with six-cylinder engines.

The 2022 Infiniti QX55 has a coupe-like roofline that has been achieved by lowering the roof height and sloping it rearward more steeply. The rear window shape is also unique to this model compared to that of the regular QX50. The roofline also incorporates what Infiniti calls a “double arc” design that begins at the base of its signature grille and rises through the beltline and into the quarter panels. At the rear, there’s a unique spoiler on top of the liftgate that helps improve aerodynamics and fuel economy without interfering with visibility.

The 2022 Infiniti QX55 comes with a standard suite of advanced driver-assist features. They include blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

The QX55 has standard tri-zone climate control that includes separate controls for driver and passenger. The front seats are heated and cooled, and there’s a heated steering wheel. Leather upholstery is also standard.

Models and Costs

Automakers continue to embrace the coupe-like SUV with the 2022 Infiniti QX55. As mentioned above, the QX55 is a sleeker and sportier version of the QX50. The QX55 comes in three trim levels: Essential, Luxe and Sensory. Both models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 268 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional.

Though the powertrain matches the QX50, the QX55 uses a different suspension setup. The smaller crossover has MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear suspension, while the QX55 utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup. Infiniti says this improves handling while maintaining ride quality.

The low roofline of the QX55 means less overall cargo space than in the standard model. Behind the rear seats, there are 23.7 cubic feet of room compared to 29 cubic feet for the regular crossover. The costs of all these models are affordable and start as from $46,500

Direct Competition

The Infiniti QX55 is a unique crossover. Its roofline and sporty rear end set it apart from the crowd, and that’s what Infiniti was going for when it came up with this vehicle. It wants to bring some of the coupe-like stylings to the crossover segment, and it does so in an intriguing way.

There’s a lot of competition in the small luxury crossover segment, but few cars offer what this one does. The Audi Q3 and BMW X2 are close competitors, Lexus UX and Volvo XC40. The Mercedes GLA-Class isn’t far off either. Some upcoming models could compete, including the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and Volvo XC20.

It’s safe to say that this car will have a pretty big impact on the small luxury crossover market. It’s not going to be easy for other brands to compete with Infiniti, which has been at the top of its game lately.