2015 INFINITI QX60: A Sophisticated Family Cruiser
The 2015 INFINITI QX60 positioned itself as a compelling option in the mid-size luxury SUV segment, blending opulent comfort, advanced technology, and practical family-hauling capabilities. It offered a serene and refined driving experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and capable three-row SUV.
Highlights
-
Engine and Performance: Under the hood, the 2015 QX60 featured a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering a smooth and ample 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant was paired with an Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritized fuel efficiency and seamless acceleration. The QX60 offered both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), providing buyers with a choice based on their climate and driving needs. The AWD system was particularly adept at handling slippery conditions with confidence.
-
Safety Features: INFINITI equipped the 2015 QX60 with a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect occupants and aid the driver:
- Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW): This innovative system monitored the vehicles two cars ahead and provided alerts if a potential collision was detected, giving the driver more time to react.
- Forward Emergency Braking (FEB): In situations where a frontal collision was imminent and the driver did not react, FEB could automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid the impact.
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Blind Spot Intervention (BSI): BSW alerted the driver to vehicles in their blind spots. BSI went a step further by gently applying the brakes on the opposite side of the vehicle to help prevent an unintended lane change into an occupied lane.
- Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection: This feature provided a 360-degree bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier. The Moving Object Detection system further enhanced safety by alerting the driver to any moving objects within the camera's view.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): LDW alerted the driver if the vehicle began to drift out of its lane without the turn signal engaged. LDP actively applied corrective steering to help guide the vehicle back into its lane.
-
Trim Summary: The 2015 INFINITI QX60 was available in two primary trims, offering a clear progression of features and amenities:
- QX60: The standard model provided a generous array of luxury features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power moonroof, and a rearview camera.
- QX60 AWD: This trim offered the same luxurious appointments as the standard QX60 but added the confidence and capability of INFINITI's intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
-
Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious and Versatile Interior: The QX60 boasted a comfortable and well-appointed three-row interior, offering seating for up to seven passengers. The second-row seats could slide and tilt forward, providing easy access to the third row, which was also surprisingly accommodating for its class.
- Smooth and Quiet Ride: The QX60's suspension was tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections and delivering a serene driving experience. Road and wind noise were well-managed, contributing to a relaxed cabin environment.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: The available INFINITI Connection system provided a comprehensive infotainment experience with features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and streaming audio. The interface was generally intuitive and easy to operate.
What to Expect
Owning a 2015 INFINITI QX60 typically involves a refined and comfortable experience. The ride quality is a standout feature, making it ideal for long commutes and family road trips. The cabin is a pleasant place to be, with quality materials and a quiet atmosphere.
Maintenance: As with any luxury vehicle, routine maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Expect to follow INFINITI's recommended service schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and fluid checks. While generally reliable, some owners might experience wear and tear on components like brakes and tires over time, which is typical for a vehicle of this size and weight. Costs for routine maintenance will likely be higher than for a non-luxury vehicle due to the use of specialized parts and fluids.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2015 QX60 will vary depending on factors such as your driving record, location, coverage levels, and the specific trim and options chosen. However, as a luxury SUV with advanced safety features, it may command slightly higher insurance rates compared to more basic or less powerful vehicles. It's always advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a competitive price.
Potential Considerations
While the 2015 QX60 offers many strengths, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- CVT Behavior: While the Xtronic CVT contributes to fuel efficiency, some drivers might find its acceleration characteristics less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. Under hard acceleration, the engine can sometimes sound strained or drone, a common trait of CVTs.
- Third-Row Space: Although the QX60 offers a third row, it's best suited for children or smaller adults on shorter journeys. For regular adult occupancy in the third row, some competitors may offer slightly more spacious seating.
- Handling Dynamics: The QX60 prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. While it's composed and predictable, body roll is noticeable during spirited cornering. Drivers seeking a more athletic driving feel might find it a bit too soft.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While generally user-friendly, the infotainment system's touchscreen responsiveness might not be as quick or fluid as some of the latest systems available in newer vehicles.
Overall Summary
The 2015 INFINITI QX60 remains a strong contender for families seeking a comfortable, luxurious, and technologically advanced three-row SUV. Its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and comprehensive safety features make it an excellent choice for everyday driving and longer journeys. While its CVT may not appeal to all drivers, and the third row is best for occasional use, the QX60 delivers a well-rounded package of refinement and practicality that has made it a popular and well-regarded option in its segment.