2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, marking the beginning of its second generation. This transformation included a new exterior and interior design, updated powertrains, and advanced technologies, aligning it with its Nissan counterpart, the Pathfinder. The QX60's exterior boasted a striking appearance with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and chrome accents, giving it a concept-car-like look. The interior was spacious and luxurious, featuring quilted leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display, emphasizing a high level of craftsmanship and build quality.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a variety of models, including the rugged Timberline and luxurious King Ranch trims. The King Ranch model, with its 4WD and premium features, presented a visually appealing SUV with King Ranch emblems, shiny 20-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, provided a taut, athletic appearance with a floating roof effect. Inside, the King Ranch featured exclusive Del Rio leather seating and a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at its base trim origins.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup offered a superior driving experience compared to the previous CVT, with smooth shifts and a serene ride. The QX60's suspension, with MacPherson struts and an independent multilink setup, provided a comfortable ride, though it wasn't designed for aggressive cornering. Fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway for FWD models and slightly lower for AWD versions.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, including a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and a hybrid drivetrain with 318 hp. The standout option was the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, available in ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims. This engine provided impressive acceleration and towing capacity, though at the cost of fuel efficiency. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offering a more engaging driving experience than typical midsize crossovers.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 offered a spacious and versatile interior, with three rows of seating and ample storage options. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easy access to the third row, which provided comfortable seating for adults. Cargo space was generous, with up to 75.4 cubic feet available with both rear rows folded. The QX60 also had a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds with the optional towing package.

The 2022 Ford Explorer, particularly in the King Ranch trim, provided comfort for families, though the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. The King Ranch featured premium amenities like massaging front seats and a power-adjustable heated steering wheel. However, practical storage within the cabin was lacking, with missed opportunities for additional pockets and shelves. Cargo space was ample, with up to 87.8 cubic feet available with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 came equipped with a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity. The Autograph trim featured a head-up display and a smart rearview mirror, enhancing safety and convenience. A 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system was standard on higher trims, providing an immersive audio experience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen display. The King Ranch trim included a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system, wireless smartphone charging, and a surround-view camera system. However, the older Sync 3 system struggled with voice recognition, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4 technology.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, forward emergency braking, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on all but the base trim, offering advanced driver assistance capabilities. While official crash-test ratings were not available, the previous generation received high marks, suggesting similar performance for the 2022 model.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.