2022 Infiniti QX50 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

Two-row SUVs that blend performance with convenience have become all the rage. While many vehicles struggle with achieving a nice balance, there are enough options out there to make this a competitive area of the car market. Luxury brands, such as Infiniti, often have a couple of options to choose from when it comes to two-row SUVs.

The 2022 Infiniti QX-50 is considered the "entry-level" SUV for the brand. That is not to say that it is cheap, by any means. It is just more affordable than any other Infiniti SUV currently. The QX50 also has one of the lowest starting prices for its class, something that shoppers will undoubtedly be drawn to. This year, the vehicle gains standard wireless Apple CarPlay. It also now has ProPilot Assist on all models instead of keeping it reserved for the Luxe trim and higher.

Speaking of trims, there are a total of five to consider when shopping for the QX50. The Pure trim level is the most affordable, but it still has plenty of sophistication and convenience to offer up. Naturally, each step up the ladder adds more features and luxury until buyers reach the Autograph. This model comes equipped with nearly every feature offered by the 2022 Infiniti QX50.

With prices ranging from just under $40,000 to up to $56,000, making the right trim choice when it comes to the QX50 is crucial. The guide that follows will detail the differences between each model to help buyers make the smart choice.

Compare the QX50 Pure vs. QX50 Luxe Trims. What is the difference?

One thing that remains consistent for the entire 2022 QX50 is the satisfying yet efficient powertrain. A turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that creates 268-horsepower along with 280 lb-ft of torque is what lurks underneath the hood. Paired with it is a continuously variable transmission and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is also available for the base Pure trim level.

To remain competitive among its peers, the QX50 offers excellent fuel economy to match its affordable starting price. The front-wheel drive models get 23mpg in city and 29mpg on highways with all wheel drives coming close behind at 22/28 mpg respectively - a sizeable bonus for any driver looking to make their dollars stretch further.

Automatic LED headlights are standard across the board, plus LED signature lighting. An LED high-mounted stoplight and taillights are also equipped on the Pure model. UV-absorbing privacy glass is another included feature, plus an integrated rear spoiler. Drivers will find that the side mirrors are power-adjustable, and there is a power liftgate to take advantage of as well.

On the style front, the QX50 has body-colored door handles that include chrome accents and LED welcome lights. There is a dual exhaust with polished finishers to help the Pure look rugged yet sophisticated. This trim level rides around on 19-inch silver-painted wheels and has no available upgrade options.

Illuminated push-button ignition greets the driver when they sit down inside the QX50 Pure. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, along with rear air vents on the back of the center console. This trim level goes with leatherette steering and includes an eight-way power adjustment for both front seats. As for the rear seats, they can fold flat or recline, depending on what the situation calls for. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and includes paddle shifters.

The QX50 is home to Infiniti's dual-screen infotainment system. Some drivers love it - some drivers think it is overly complicated. In either case, the top screen is eight inches while the lower one is seven. Voice recognition is standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. There is a six-speaker audio system to go along with this infotainment setup. Satellite radio is also included, along with five strategically located USB ports. Rounding out the tech is the popular Siri EyesFree feature.

Another major advantage of choosing any of the QX50 trim levels is the amount of cargo space. There are 31.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 65.1 cubic feet when that row has been folded flat. The QX50 actually has one of the largest cargo capacities in its class.

There is a complete suite of driver assistance features on all 2022 QX50 models, including the entry-level Pure. Blind-spot warning and intervention are both found on this SUV, along with forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking. On top of those, the QX50 Pure comes equipped with rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure prevention, and automatic high beams. A tire pressure monitoring system with an easy-fill tire alert is also standard.

Starting this year, the Pure trim level is also equipped with ProPilot Assist. This is a semi-autonomous driving-assist system. When activated, it can handle accelerating, braking, and steering in certain conditions.

The next option on the list is the QX50 Luxe. Like the Pure, it can be had with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. It has the same powertrain setup and it also rides on 19-inch wheels. This trim opens up the option of 20-inch wheels, however, as part of the available appearance package. It also includes blacked-out exterior details, such as on the grille and liftgate.

The Luxe trim level ensures you look as good going on your next adventure as it feels. With integrated LED fog lights, aluminum roof rails and heated power-folding side mirrors, no detail has been overlooked when preparing for a luxurious drive. Enjoy maximum light with the panoramic moonroof complete with a convenient power sunshade extending over both front and rear passengers alike - experience only possible through the top of the line Luxe model.

The cabin of this trim level gets more sophisticated with leather-appointed seating. While the Pure model has a two-way power lumbar adjustment for the driver, the Luxe goes with a four-way adjustment instead. Memory settings are also included when drivers go with this trim level. Heated front seats are part of the standard equipment starting with this model. A universal garage door opener is also thrown in at the Luxe trim level. This feature can also be configured to work with compatible security systems, lights, and more.

When sticking with front-wheel drive, the 2022 QX50 Luxe costs just over $3,000 more than the QX50 Pure. Adding all-wheel drive will drive the price up $2,000 more.

Compare the QX50 Luxe vs. Infiniti QX50 Essential Trim Levels. What is the difference?

The 2022 model of the Essential has been upgraded with a number of impressive features. On the outside, rain-sensing windshield wipers give you an extra layer of protection against inclement weather and 19 inch wheels provide both style and maneuverability.

Inside, passengers can enjoy comfort courtesy of a power adjustable steering column as well as luxury audio from its 16 speaker Bose sound system that also includes a subwoofer for added bass response. Plus safety is enhanced through front/rear sensors along with traffic sign recognition technology plus all round visibility thanks to surround view cameras - not forgetting staying warm during journeys on those chillier days and nights via its heated steering wheel capability.

The price difference between the Luxe and the Essential is over $4,000. It is debatable whether or not the safety and audio upgrades are enough to justify this jump.

QX50 Essential vs. QX50 Sensory. What is the difference?

The first major difference when looking at the Sensory compared to the other trim levels is what is underneath the QX50. This trim level comes standard with 20-inch silver-painted wheels and has the option of swapping those out for 20-inch painted-black ones instead for $400 more.

The Sensory offers a range of upgraded exterior and interior features including hands-free power liftgate, heated rear seats in addition to the front ones, as well as more sophisticated leather upholstery. As far safety and convenience is concerned this trim level includes an innovative head-up display which allows drivers customized audio info, navigation instructions without having to look away from the road ahead - providing maximum driver protection whilst reducing distraction levels. Of course with such added value comes at cost; just over $5k over that of its Essential equivalent – though buyers still have a choice between all wheel or front wheel drive for either model.

QX50 Sensory vs. QX50 Autograph. What is the difference?

The final rung on the 2022 QX50 trim ladder is the Autograph. It comes standard with all-wheel drive, and it costs more than $5,000 more than the front-wheel-drive version of the Sensory model. This trim level gets exclusive 20-inch dark-painted wheels to show off around town.

Another thing that makes the Autograph unique is the standard three-zone automatic climate control. This is available on lower trims as part of a package. While most models of the 2022 QX50 have ambient interior lighting of some kind, the Autograph has what Infiniti calls "extended ambient lighting." Rear passenger sunshades further add to both the comfort and upscale feeling of this top trim level.

The Autograph trim of the QX50 SUV stands out with its luxurious quilted upholstery and striking metallic finishes in the cargo area. Natural maple wood trimmings further elevate the cabin's appearance, while a tow hitch comes standard on this version for an impressive 3,000-pound pull capacity.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Infiniti QX50 is an intriguing two-row SUV. If buyers opt to stay with the entry-level Pure model, they will spend less than they would on most class rivals. Despite its lower price tag, the QX50 Pure comes equipped with most of the popular features that today's drivers are after. Highlights include smartphone integration, power-adjustable front seats, and a suite of advanced safety features. Plus, all-wheel drive can be added to the Pure trim level for only $2,000.

For drivers looking to add a touch of luxury to their driving experience, the Luxe trim may be worth considering. This upgrade features heated front seats and a stunning panoramic moonroof for added convenience and comfort - making it ideal for those seeking an indulgent ride without splurging on higher trims.

Drivers looking for additional safety features should consider the Essential trim level; however, the value does not compensate for what is being asked. If a more luxurious driving experience is desired, then either Sensory or Autograph might be considered - but at a price that may seem outside of reasonable expectations.

Most buyers will want to stick with the entry-level 2022 Infiniti QX50 Pure. It has a great deal of luxury at a hard-to-beat price.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2021 Infiniti QX50 Trime Levels