The 2022 Infiniti QX50 2.0L 4-cyl gets 26 MPG combined, which is good for the compact luxury SUV class, but buyers in this segment want more than just fuel savings. Infiniti understands its target audience: upwardly mobile professionals and young families who want a stylish, comfortable, and tech-forward vehicle without seeming overly practical. The QX50 blends luxury and practicality, and its fuel economy is acceptable enough without being a major selling point.

City and highway performance

The QX50’s EPA ratings of 23 MPG city and 29 MPG highway reflect its performance in real-world driving. The city figure is reasonable for a vehicle of this size and weight, considering stop-and-go traffic. The highway number is a pleasant one; the QX50’s aerodynamic shape and well-tuned 8-speed automatic transmission (AV-S8) allow it to cruise efficiently at higher speeds. It never feels strained maintaining 75-80 mph on the interstate, getting good fuel economy for a non-hybrid SUV. While not class-leading, this is adequate for most drivers in suburban or rural areas.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Infiniti QX50 2.0L 4-cyl at $2,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving, using national average gasoline prices. This provides a benchmark for potential buyers to compare the QX50’s running costs against other vehicles, but keep in mind individual expenses may vary based on driving style, local fuel prices, and driving frequency.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are useful for comparison, and many QX50 owners will likely see different MPG figures reflecting their driving habits. Those who drive mostly in congested urban areas, idling and accelerating frequently, should expect fuel economy closer to the 23 MPG city rating, or even lower. Drivers who primarily use the QX50 for longer highway commutes, maintaining a steady speed, are likely to match or exceed the 29 MPG highway estimate. The VC-Turbo engine balances performance and efficiency across all driving conditions, allowing drivers to enjoy acceleration when needed without sacrificing fuel economy during normal cruising.

How it compares

The 2022 Infiniti QX50’s fuel economy is in the middle of its competitive set. The Acura RDX, for example, gets 22 MPG city / 28 MPG highway, making the Infiniti slightly more efficient, especially on the open road. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and all-wheel drive, nearly matches the QX50’s numbers at 23/29. Meanwhile, the Lexus NX 350h hybrid gets 41 MPG combined, making it a better choice for efficiency, even with its higher price. The Lincoln Corsair delivers similar fuel economy depending on the engine and trim level. While fuel economy is not class-leading, it’s competitive enough so buyers can focus on the other features that draw them to the QX50, such as its interior design and powerful variable-compression turbo engine. For all Infiniti fuel economy data, check our brand page. You can also see QX50 MPG across all years on our model page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The QX50’s VC-Turbo engine responds favorably to smooth acceleration. Avoid pressing hard on the gas pedal, as the variable compression system will shift to a performance-oriented setting, decreasing fuel efficiency. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed will keep the system in its fuel-efficient mode.

Use the QX50’s drive mode selector. In “Eco” mode, the throttle response is softened and the transmission shifts earlier, prioritizing fuel efficiency. This mode works well for highway cruising or city driving where rapid acceleration is not needed. In “Standard” mode, the turbocharger and engine can use their full power, so expect lower economy than in Eco mode.

Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which is listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and consumes more fuel. The QX50 requires premium fuel, as stated in all manufacturer documentation. Using lower-octane fuel can negatively impact performance and efficiency.

Minimize the use of accessories such as air conditioning and heated seats, particularly during short trips. These features draw power from the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Opening the windows at lower speeds can be more fuel-efficient. Remove any unnecessary cargo to decrease the vehicle’s weight, because a lighter vehicle consumes less fuel.