Infiniti usually isn’t at the top of any luxury car shopper’s list. Many believe that Infiniti has gone downhill due to declining sales figures, lackluster tech, and no concrete brand image. One of its newest models, the 2022 Infiniti QX55, might change the way people think.

This SUV’s exterior is heavily inspired by the Infiniti FX, one of the first widely successful crossovers. According to MotorTrend, the Infiniti QX55 has one of the swankiest interiors available in any new luxury car. Could the QX55 help Infiniti’s struggling reputation?

All the QX55’s interior features

The Infiniti QX55 definitely has a sumptuous interior to match its stylish exterior. Faux leather upholstery is standard, though it’s also offered in semi-aniline and real varieties on higher trims. It’s available in many vibrant colors, though MotorTrend was especially fond of the red and black combo.

The dashboard is finished with suede, and the higher trims even feature a black, open-pore wood trim. The suede stylishly wraps around the dual-screen infotainment setup and extends to the backseat. Infiniti still uses Nissan’s gear switch layout, which somewhat pulls riders out of the overall luxury ambiance.

The Infiniti QX55 Luxe comes with wireless smartphone connectivity, but the mid-level Essential is regarded as the best value. This one adds on a Wi-Fi hotspot, power moonroof, an impressive 16-speaker Bose stereo system, and a 360-degree camera system. In addition to the dual-screen setup, rotary knobs are also present for controlling audio and climate functions.

It’s a great selection of standard tech, but MotorTrend’s enjoyment was hindered by the interface itself. You can only activate certain controls on one screen or the other, which can be frustrating for new Infiniti drivers. MotorTrend also felt that the physical buttons don’t have a cohesive layout.

Safety tech offerings are typical for most luxury crossovers: blind-spot monitors, forward-collision warning, rear-cross traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. ProPilot Assist is optional on the QX55 Essential and standard on the Sensory, which includes a semi-autonomous driving mode.

How roomy is the Infiniti QX55?

The seats are just as comfortable as they look, wide enough and supportive over long trips. Front-seat riders are treated to Nissan’s patented Zero Gravity memory foam seats. The back row is also comfortable enough for adults, even with the basic seats and sloping roofline.

All Infiniti QX55 models are also equipped with active noise cancellation for a peaceful ride. The QX55’s cargo capacity is good, over 54 cubic feet of space with the second row folded flat.

How well does it drive?

The 2022 Infiniti QX55 is equipped with a turbo-four capable of 268 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with standard AWD and a CVT instead of the updated nine-speed automatic on the QX60. This was one of MotorTrend’s biggest annoyances while test-driving the Infiniti QX55 due to its noisiness and pauses between shifts.

Thanks to a stiff suspension, hard bumps create unnerving jolts and shakes throughout the interior. MotorTrend also wasn’t impressed with the steering, which feels robotic even in Sport mode.

Is the 2022 Infiniti QX55 worth your money?

A basic Infiniti QX55 Luxe will cost $47,525, while the Essential trim runs for $52,625. Splurging on a fully-loaded QX55 Sensory will cost $58,075. The QX55 is expected to show up in dealership lots this month.

If you’re looking for an exciting drive, the QX55 probably isn’t for you. Even an Infiniti with reportedly better handling, like the QX50, still suffers from being paired to that noisy CVT. However, if a classy interior is your only concern, the Infiniti QX55 fits the bill nicely.