The 2021 QX60 represents a significant moment for Infiniti’s luxury three-row SUV segment, arriving at a time when the market for family-oriented premium vehicles was both competitive and discerning. As the midsize counterpart to the larger QX80, this model year offered a blend of comfort, capability, and refined engineering aimed at active families and status-conscious buyers. Understanding the 2021 QX60 requires looking at how it balanced its dated platform against updated styling and technology to remain relevant.
Design and Exterior Evolution
For the 2021 model year, the QX60 underwent a substantial mid-cycle refresh that gave it a more assertive and modern presence. The front fascia was completely reimagined, featuring a larger, more angular grille and sharper LED headlights that aligned with Infiniti’s then-current design language. This update moved the vehicle away from the softer, more conservative lines of the pre-facelift model, giving it a more premium and dynamic stance on the road.
The side profile retained the sloping roofline and chrome-accented window line, but subtle changes to the bumper and wheel well liners added visual weight. At the rear, the updated LED taillights and a redesigned bumper with a more pronounced diffuser created a cohesive look that tied the front and rear together. These aesthetic updates were not merely cosmetic; they signaled a commitment to keeping the QX60 looking fresh against newer competitors in the luxury 7-seater segment.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2021 QX60 continued to prioritize a serene and spacious cabin environment. The use of soft-touch materials, premium leather, and meticulous stitching created an atmosphere of quiet luxury, especially in the front rows. The second-row captain’s chairs offered exceptional comfort and easy access to the third row, a crucial detail for a vehicle marketed as a family hauler.
The technology suite saw meaningful upgrades, centered around a larger, high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system. This update brought improved graphics, faster menu navigation, and better integration options. The inclusion of a digital instrument cluster and a heads-up display in certain trims further enhanced the high-tech feel, allowing the driver to maintain focus on the road while accessing critical vehicle information.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powering the 2021 QX60 is a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, a reliable powertrain that delivers smooth and ample acceleration for everyday driving needs. The output provides sufficient thrust for highway merging while maintaining composed efficiency during regular commutes. This engine is mated to a smooth 7-speed automatic transmission that shifts quietly and decisively, contributing to the overall refined nature of the drive.
Handling is tuned for comfort rather than sporty precision, which is expected for a vehicle of this class. The ride quality is generally smooth, absorbing road imperfections effectively thanks to the adaptive air suspension available on higher trims. This focus on ride comfort makes the QX60 an excellent choice for long road trips, where passenger fatigue is a primary concern.
Safety and Practical Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the QX60’s value proposition, and the 2021 model year was no exception. It came well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including intelligent cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features work seamlessly to provide an extra layer of security for drivers and passengers alike, particularly during long journeys.
