The BMW X6 effectively created a new category when it arrived in 2008. By blending the higher seating position of an SUV with the sloping roofline of a sporty coupe, it challenged the idea that a utility vehicle had to look like a box.
While the X6 is a long-standing benchmark for German “Sports Activity Coupes,” the 2027 Infiniti QX65 enters the market as a spiritual successor to the Infiniti FX, a vehicle that was experimenting with the same aggressive and athletic proportions as far back as 2003.
The 2027 QX65 represents a continued move toward energetic yet attainable luxury for Infiniti. It showcases the next evolution of Infiniti’s Artistry in Motion design language, with styling cues similar to those of other Infiniti SUVs, like the three-row QX60 and QX80. The new Sunfire Red paint is a tribute to the Nissan GT-R, its vibrant finish featuring genuine gold-coated glass flecks.
At first glance, it may seem odd to compare an Infiniti to a BMW. Yet while the BMW remains a powerhouse of German engineering, the QX65 offers a similar on-road presence and premium interior for a lower starting price.
- Base Trim Engine
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2.0-L Turbo Inline 4
- Base Trim Transmission
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9-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
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All-Wheel Drive
Style without the luxury tax
Over a $20K difference between the two
The most striking difference between these two is the price of entry.
The 2026 BMW X6 xDrive40i starts at $78,750, including destination. Meanwhile, the 2027 Infiniti QX65 starts at $55,535 (including destination), leaving a price gap of more than $23,000 between the two. BMW primarily offers a more powerful six-cylinder engine and the prestige of the M Sport styling that comes standard on the X6 for the additional money.
However, when you look at the technology and comfort features, both vehicles offer a remarkably similar experience. Both the X6 and the QX65 come standard with all-wheel drive, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of safety tech like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking.
Quiz
Infiniti QX65 trivia
Read on and test your knowledge
From its sleek coupe styling to its performance roots — see how much you know about the Infiniti QX65.
DesignPerformanceHistoryFeaturesRivals
What was the Infiniti QX65 originally named before it was rebranded?
Correct! The QX65 was originally sold as the FX35 and FX50 before Infiniti overhauled its naming convention in 2014. The ‘QX’ prefix was adopted across Infiniti’s SUV lineup to create a more consistent brand identity.
Not quite. The QX65 traces its lineage directly to the FX35 and FX50, which were rebranded when Infiniti restructured its entire model naming system in 2014. The JX35 was actually the precursor to the larger QX60.
Which body style best describes the Infiniti QX65’s distinctive silhouette?
Correct! The QX65 is known for its dramatic sloping roofline that gives it a coupe-like profile, setting it apart from more upright SUVs. This styling choice prioritizes aesthetics and a sporty look, though it does limit rear headroom compared to traditional SUVs.
Not quite. The QX65’s signature trait is its fastback-style sloping roofline, which gives it the appearance of a sporty coupe blended with an SUV. This design language was inspired by concept cars and made the FX/QX65 a head-turner when it launched.
What engine powered the top-spec Infiniti QX65 in its final production years?
Correct! The range-topping QX65 used a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 390 horsepower, offering brisk performance for a luxury crossover. This engine gave the QX65 genuine sports car credentials to match its sporty looks.
Not quite. The top-tier QX65 was powered by a 5.0-liter V8 delivering 390 horsepower. The more common variant used a 3.7-liter V6, but the V8 model was the performance flagship of the lineup.
In what year did Infiniti discontinue the QX65?
Correct! Infiniti discontinued the QX65 after the 2017 model year, ending a nameplate that had been in production since 2003. Its cancellation made room for Infiniti to focus on newer crossover models and evolving consumer preferences.
Not quite. The QX65 was discontinued after 2017, concluding a production run that began back in 2003 under the FX name. The model had a loyal following, but shifting market trends led Infiniti to retire it.
Which advanced driver assistance technology was available on the Infiniti QX65?
Correct! The QX65 offered Infiniti’s InTouch infotainment system along with the Around View Monitor, which stitches together camera feeds to give a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle. This was considered a cutting-edge parking aid when it debuted on Infiniti models.
Not quite. The QX65 featured Infiniti’s own InTouch system paired with the Around View Monitor, a surround-view camera system Infiniti was among the first to popularize. Technologies like Autopilot and Super Cruise belong to Tesla and GM respectively.
Which vehicle was considered the QX65’s closest direct competitor in the luxury sport crossover segment?
Correct! The BMW X6 was the QX65’s most direct rival, as both vehicles shared the same coupe-crossover concept with a sloping roofline and performance-oriented character. The two were frequently compared by automotive journalists throughout their shared production years.
Not quite. The BMW X6 was the natural rival to the QX65, since both pioneered the sporty coupe-SUV formula with dramatic rooflines and rear-biased styling. The Escalade and Navigator compete in a different full-size luxury SUV segment entirely.
Who is credited as the chief designer behind the original Infiniti FX concept that led to the QX65?
Correct! Shiro Nakamura served as Nissan and Infiniti’s design chief and was the creative force behind the bold FX concept that evolved into the QX65. His vision for expressive, emotional design language helped shape Infiniti’s identity for decades.
Not quite. Shiro Nakamura was the influential design head at Nissan and Infiniti who championed the daring FX concept styling. Chris Bangle is associated with BMW’s controversial designs, while Peter Schreyer became famous for his work at Kia.
What type of drivetrain was standard on most Infiniti QX65 models sold in North America?
Correct! All-wheel drive was standard on the QX65 in North America, sending power to all four wheels for improved traction in varied conditions. The system was tuned with a performance bias, reflecting the QX65’s sporty character rather than serious off-road capability.
Not quite. North American QX65 models came standard with all-wheel drive, which suited the crossover’s blend of sporty driving and everyday practicality. The QX65 was never intended as a serious off-roader, so a locking differential system was unnecessary.
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The QX65 makes its case by offering features like Google built-in and NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats as part of its base value, both of which are standout features of the three-row QX60.
While the BMW is undoubtedly faster and more athletic, the QX65 provides the same fastback curb appeal and a high-tech cabin without the $23,000 premium. For most, that extra money might be better kept in the bank rather than spent on horsepower that rarely gets used during a 7:00 am commute.
Turbo hybrid vs. turbo gasoline
Hands-off highway driving systems
Under the hood, these two vehicles take very different paths to get you moving. The BMW X6 xDrive40i uses a 3.0-liter inline-six turbo engine, producing 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft. of torque, which can be boosted to 398 lb-ft. for short periods thanks to the mild-hybrid system.
One of the most interesting facts about BMW’s powertrain is the integration of that 48V mild-hybrid system. The setup includes an electric motor integrated directly into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, providing an additional 12 horsepower and 147 lb-ft. of torque to help the X6 pull away from a stoplight or have an extra burst during mid-range acceleration.
Meanwhile, the 2027 QX65 leverages Nissan’s Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine, which produces 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft. of torque. The VC-Turbo is paired with a nine-speed automatic tuned for more direct off-the-line performance.
As the name VC-Turbo suggests, the inline-four engine performs real-time compression ratio adjustments while driving for the best possible power delivery and fuel economy. The design comprises a multi-link system that raises or lowers the pistons in real time in response to the driver’s inputs.
When properly equipped, the 2027 QX65 offers a max towing capacity of 6,000 lbs., not quite as much as the X6 at 7,200 lbs.
When not towing, BMW’s Highway Assistant allows for hands-free travel at speeds up to 85 mph and even features a “gaze-confirmed” lane change system. Infiniti’s ProPILOT Assist 2.1 offers a similar hands-off experience for highway cruising, using a driver-facing camera to help you stay attentive.
- What’s Included
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M12 impact driver, hammer drill, 3/8-inch ratchet, charger, two batteries
- Cordless?
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Yes
If you’re looking for a great DIY starter kit from Milwaukee, this M12 3-tool combo kit is it. With an impact driver, hammer drill, and 3/8-inch ratchet, along with a 4Ah and 2Ah battery, this kit is a great starting point for projects both at home and on your vehicle.
Factory warranty coverage
Infiniti wins on powertrain duration
Every BMW X6 has a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, which covers the powertrain and electronic systems under a single umbrella for that length of time. By contrast, the 2027 Infiniti QX65 uses a split-coverage approach:
- Basic Coverage: Infiniti covers the whole vehicle, bumper-to-bumper, for four years or 60,000 miles.
- Powertrain Coverage: Infiniti provides a separate, extended safety net for the engine and transmission that lasts for six years or 70,000 miles.
While BMW offers the simplicity of covering everything at once, Infiniti ensures that the most expensive mechanical components remain protected through that fifth year and even into the sixth.
Infiniti QX60 vs. QX65: Why you’re paying more for fewer seats
Mechanical twins with different personalities.
Practicality in a coupe silhouette
Infiniti comes out ahead
One of the biggest knocks against the crossover-coupe segment is that you usually have to trade away utility for that sporty, sloping roofline. BMW’s design is aggressive, but it results in a cargo area that can feel a bit tight. The 2027 Infiniti QX65 manages to keep its fastback style without forcing you to leave all your gear behind.
- BMW X6 Cargo Space: Behind the second row, the X6 offers 27.4 cubic feet, which expands to a maximum of 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
- Infiniti QX65 Cargo Space: The QX65 provides a more generous 35.8 cubic feet behind the second row, offering up to 67.7 cubic feet when the second row is folded.
QX65 vs. X6 bottom line
If performance and the prestige of a traditional luxury namesake are important to you, the BMW X6 is an impressive piece of machinery, as one would expect any BMW to be. However, if you want a stylish fastback for less money out the door, the 2027 Infiniti QX65 is a smarter move.
By offering a similar aesthetic and a longer warranty for roughly $23,000 less, Infiniti has created a compelling case for skipping the “luxury tax” without feeling like you’ve skipped the luxury.
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
