The 2018 Infiniti QX60 with front-wheel drive and the 3.5L V6 has an official EPA rating of 22 MPG combined. This number needs to be understood, as the QX60 is a comfortable, luxurious, and spacious three-row SUV designed to transport families in style. Fuel efficiency is often secondary to these other priorities for the typical QX60 buyer.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down that 22 MPG combined rating into 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the QX60’s weight and the demands of stop-and-go driving. The 27 MPG highway rating is respectable and achievable on long road trips when the vehicle can settle into a steady cruising speed. The relatively high highway number is due, in part, to Nissan/Infiniti’s use of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), programmed here with simulated “gear” shifts to give it a more traditional feel. CVTs are known for maximizing efficiency, but their driving feel is not universally loved, so the simulated shifts attempt to bridge the gap between efficiency and driver engagement.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Infiniti QX60 FWD is $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (mostly city versus highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles per year, or live in an area with particularly high or low fuel prices, you can expect to deviate from this estimate. The EPA uses standardized tests to simulate real-world driving conditions, but individual results may vary.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can often differ. Owners of the 2018 QX60 typically report figures slightly below the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions. Expect to achieve around 18-22 MPG in typical everyday use, especially if your commute involves a lot of stop-and-go traffic. Highway driving, however, can yield numbers closer to the EPA’s 27 MPG rating, particularly if you drive conservatively and avoid excessive speeding.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row luxury SUVs of the era, the 2018 QX60’s fuel economy is middle-of-the-road. The Acura MDX, another popular choice in this segment, achieves 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway with its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Buick Enclave, a more mainstream alternative, offers 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. A Volvo XC90 T5 FWD delivers a slightly better 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway, but sacrifices some of the QX60’s traditional luxury feel. These comparisons are important for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency, as even a small difference in MPG can translate to significant savings over the long term. You can compare QX60 MPG across all years on our site. For more data about the brand, view all Infiniti fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are crucial for maximizing fuel economy in the QX60. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. The 3.5L V6 is responsive, but it consumes significantly more fuel when pushed hard.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Regularly check and adjust your tire pressure, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the QX60 adds to its overall weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need to carry on a regular basis. A roof rack can also contribute to drag, so consider removing it if it’s not in use.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to optimize fuel efficiency on long drives. Cruise control minimizes speed fluctuations and ensures smoother acceleration, leading to better MPG.

Consider using the QX60’s “Eco” mode, if equipped. This mode alters the throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. While it may make the vehicle feel slightly less responsive, it can help to improve MPG in certain driving conditions.