All trim models feature the new Variable Compression Turbo 2.0L engine offered in either front-wheel drive or intelligent all-wheel drive. What makes the new VC-Turbo engine so special is it makes adjustments to the compression ratio of the engine on the fly via a pivoting mechanism attached to the crankshaft allowing the piston to travel shorter or longer distances in the cylinder. The result of this new technology is a range of compression from 8:1 all the way up to 14:1 as power is demanded by the driver.

The results are impressive. This engine produces 268 horsepower and 280 foot-pounds of peak torque while getting 24mpg city and 30 mpg highway (AWD). In front wheel drive, economy is only slightly better at 31 mpg freeway and the same 24 mpg city.

All the ground-breaking engine technology aside, the QX50 comes in three flavors -- Pure, Luxe and Essential. All three come with familiar features like INFINITI drive, Rack Electronic Power Steering with optional Direct Adaptive Steering, and dual LCD/VGA touch screens with vehicle information displays.

The QX50's Pure models are pretty far from what one would call a base model. It comes with features like automatic LED headlights with DRL's, speed sensitive wipers, power adjustable outside mirrors, an Intelligent Key with illuminated push-button start, dual zone climate control, power locks with automatic locking, power windows and moon roof, leatherette appointed 8-way adjustable power seats, hands-free Bluetooth, even voice recognition for Bluetooth, vehicle information and music searches.

The QX50's Luxe models add pleasantries such as a power tinted panoramic moon roof with one-touch open/close functionality and power sunshade, roof rails, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, LED fog lamps, and blind-spot monitoring.

Finally, QX50 Essential models add leather appointed seats, INFINITI Intouch Navigation and Intouch Services, Around View Monitor with Move Object Detection and front and rear parking sensors.

Safety is one of INFINITI's number one concerns with award winning safety features like INFINITI Advanced dual stage airbags for the front and side for all passengers, brake assist, blind spot monitoring, Backup Collison Intervention, traction control, a slide-away pedal assembly, forward emergency braking, steering assist, advanced intelligent cruise control, lane departure warning and prevention, distance control assist and a heads-up display designed to keep the driver engaged the key vehicle information displayed on the lower windshield.