2025 Infiniti QX60 Loses V6, Prices Go Up
Yet another vehicle is replacing its V6 with a four-cylinder engine. For 2025, the Infiniti QX60 is indeed dropping a proven powerplant in favour of a smaller unit that happens to be at the centre of an investigation in the U.S.
We’re talking about Nissan’s variable-compression turbo (VC-Turbo) engine, which is also found in the Infiniti QX50 and QX55. This 2.0-litre mill produces 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque, a decrease of 27 horsepower and an increase of 16 lb-ft from the outgoing 3.5-litre V6. The nine-speed automatic transmission returns, complete with a transmission oil cooler, so maximum towing capacity is unchanged at 6,000 lbs.
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The company promises improved fuel economy, but the official ratings have yet to be announced. Keep in mind that premium gasoline is recommended. If the aforementioned QX50 and QX55 are any indication, performance won’t live up to expectations and real-world fuel savings will be nil.
Those are just two reasons why customers are disappointed with the VC-Turbo engine. Many have complained about a sudden loss of power, engine knocking, metallic particles in the oil pan and even engine breakdown, leading the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to launch an investigation, although focusing mainly on the three-cylinder variant found in models like the Nissan Rogue. The automaker has since made some modifications to the crankshaft and more, but concerns about reliability and efficiency remain.
New Black Edition
What else is new with the 2025 Infiniti QX60? There’s a Black Edition based on the Luxe model that features gloss black 20-inch wheels along with gloss black roof rails, grille surround and exterior emblems. An illuminated logo in the front grille and a black headliner complete the Black Edition treatment. Available body colours include Mineral Black, Majestic White or new-for-2025 Harbor Gray.
Additionally, all QX60 models now come with a key fob offering approach unlock and walkaway locking functionality. When enabled, this feature automatically locks or unlocks the vehicle, as appropriate, by detecting when someone with the key fob walks up to or away from the vehicle.
That’s it. No other changes. The 2025 Infiniti QX60 is on sale now starting at $60,345 (MSRP) in base Pure trim, which is $1,150 more expensive than last year. The Black Edition is listed at $66,645, while the top-line Autograph model carries a price of $72,845.
Infiniti’s best-selling vehicle is down 18 percent in Canada so far in 2024. Will the 2025 update turn things around? We seriously doubt it.