For those who favor a blend of luxury and spirited performance in their mid-size SUV, the news surrounding the 2025 Infiniti Infiniti QX60 might sting a bit. Infiniti has opted to swap the familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine for a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder across the lineup. While this shift aligns with the industry’s growing focus on fuel efficiency, it leaves a question mark for drivers who crave the robust power delivery of a larger engine.
This isn’t a typical engine change tied to a model refresh or redesign. The current-generation Infiniti QX60, launched for the 2022 model year, continues with its stylish exterior for 2025. However, the hood now houses a powertrain familiar to other Infiniti offerings like the QX50 and QX55. The new engine, dubbed the Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo), boasts some unique features, but it undeniably sacrifices horsepower compared to the outgoing V6.
A Tale of Two Engines: Power vs. Efficiency
The dethroned 3.5-liter V6 pumped out 295 horsepower, a figure that undeniably appealed to drivers seeking a more exhilarating driving experience. The new VC-Turbo engine comes in at 268 horsepower, a noticeable 27-horsepower dip. This translates to a slightly less thrilling acceleration experience.
However, the story doesn’t end there. Torque, the force that provides a sense of pulling power, actually sees a rise with the VC-Turbo. It delivers 286 pound-feet, a 16 lb-ft increase over the previous V6. This translates to a potentially peppier low-end acceleration experience, even if the top-end power might feel muted.
Infiniti QX60, in attempting to soften the blow of the horsepower drop, emphasizes the fuel efficiency improvements of the VC-Turbo. Front-wheel-drive Infiniti QX60 models now boast an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and a combined rating of 24 mpg. All-wheel-drive models see a slight dip in highway fuel economy, with a rating of 27 mpg, but still achieve a combined rating of 23 mpg. These figures represent a potential improvement over the previous V6, particularly for city driving.
The Future of Powertrains: Efficiency at the Forefront
The decision to downsize the engine in the Infiniti QX60 reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry. As environmental concerns and fuel economy regulations tighten, manufacturers are increasingly turning to smaller, more efficient engines. While this often comes at the expense of raw power, advancements in turbocharging and variable compression technology can help mitigate the loss of horsepower while offering benefits like improved torque and potentially better fuel economy.
The VC-Turbo engine represents a unique approach. Its variable compression technology allows it to adjust its compression ratio depending on driving conditions. This can lead to improved efficiency at lower engine speeds and a boost in power when needed. Whether this translates to a truly satisfying driving experience for those accustomed to the V6 remains to be seen.
The Trade-Off: Performance vs. Fuel Efficiency
The shift to the VC-Turbo engine in the Infiniti QX60 presents a clear trade-off. Drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and a potentially smoother low-end driving experience might find the new setup appealing. However, those who enjoyed the robust power delivery and spirited acceleration of the V6 will likely feel a pang of loss.
Looking Ahead: A Broader Spectrum of Choices?
The future of the Infiniti QX60 lineup remains to be seen. While the 2025 model year sees the departure of the V6, it’s possible that Infiniti QX60 might offer a hybrid or even a fully electric variant in the coming years. This could cater to a wider range of buyers, providing both performance and efficiency options.
Conclusion: A Change for the Times
The decision to downsize the engine in the Infiniti QX60 reflects the evolving landscape of the automotive industry. While V6 enthusiasts might lament the loss of a powerful option, the move towards smaller, more efficient engines is likely here to stay. However, this doesn’t necessarily spell the end of exhilarating driving experiences. Advancements in turbocharging and variable compression technology offer exciting possibilities for the future of performance-oriented SUVs that prioritize both power and efficiency. Only time will tell if the new VC-Turbo engine in the Infiniti QX60 strikes the right balance for its target audience.