The 2017 Infiniti QX50 puts handling atop the SUV priority list, but that's not as wrong as it sounds.The Infiniti QX50 has been around, in one form or the other, for a decade. It's still here thanks to strong fundamentals: there are bits and pieces of Q50s and 370Zs under its skin, and that gives it an engaging feel that's still head and shoulders above some its its key rivals. It returns for its 10th model year in just two forms, as the rear-drive QX50 or as the all-wheel-drive QX50 AWD.
Pros Sport-sedan handling Shape's still sleek A richly appointed cabin Supportive front seats Finally, a more usable back seat
Cons Cargo space behind the second row is small Engine noise No paddle shift controls Even with surround-view cameras, visibility isn't great
The 2017 Infiniti QX50 ranks 10 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. The 2017 Infiniti QX50 has a powerful V6 engine, handles more like an agile car than an SUV, and has one of the lowest base prices in the class. Many class rivals have better mpg ratings and more cargo space, however, and the QX50's design is getting a little stale, both inside and out.
Pros Powerful engine Low starting price Agile handling
Cons Poor fuel economy Subpar cargo space Aging design
With the 2017 Infiniti QX50, you get a driving experience that's more sport sedan than sport-utility. But the QX50 falls behind in other areas that are likely more important for a luxury crossover SUV. The QX50's optional 19-inch wheels are now available separately for 2017.
Pros Powerful standard V6 engine Responsive handling more akin to a sport sedan than a sport-utility.
Cons Limited cargo space That standard V6 engine is pretty thirsty All-or-nothing option packages mean you'll probably pay for things you don't want Dated interior controls.
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder offers good space for seven in a composed, quiet environment and it manages a some decent capability for off-road duty and towing. The Nissan Pathfinder mid-size people mover gets a modest refresh for 2017 after its 2014 redesign. Changes to this seven-passenger crossover SUV include new front and rear fascias that create a more truck-like look, engine improvements, a new infotainment system, and new active safety features.
Pros Clever folding second row Spacious interior Composed, quiet ride Calm cabin Controlled handling
Cons Far from a sports car Drab interior materials Occasional lag in power delivery
The Nissan Pathfinder receives substantial updates for 2017. These include a more powerful engine, greater towing capacity, a slight front and rear redesign, a larger standard touchscreen, additional feature content, and revised steering and suspension for a sharper driving experience.
Pros V6 engine provides strong acceleration and respectable fuel economy User-friendly touchscreen interface comes standard on every trim Easily accessed third-row seat Robust towing capacity.
Cons Below-average cargo capacity and small item storage Less third-row space than some rivals Platinum trim level's ride quality might be too firm for some drivers Automatic emergency braking safety feature available on top trim only.
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder ranks 16 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. Despite a significant refresh for the 2017 model year, the Nissan Pathfinder ranks near the bottom of the midsize SUV class. While it can adequately do everything it was designed to do, it fails to impress in most areas.
Pros Strong V6 engine Intuitive infotainment system Good overall cargo space
Cons Rough ride quality Lackluster interior design Dull driving dynamics Unimpressive passenger space
