Ford Explorer Vs Infiniti Qx60 – Choosing Between Rugged Utility
Choosing between the Ford Explorer and the Infiniti QX60 requires balancing the Ford’s rear-wheel-drive performance and off-road capability against the Infiniti’s refined luxury and smooth V6 powertrain. While the Explorer offers more engine variety and a dedicated off-road trim, the QX60 provides a more premium interior experience and a higher standard towing capacity for family adventures.
Deciding on a three-row SUV often feels like a compromise between what your family needs and what your inner enthusiast wants. You need the space for the kids and gear, but you also want a vehicle that doesn’t feel like a chore to drive or a nightmare to maintain in your own garage. When you are staring down a decision between the ford explorer vs infiniti qx60, you are really choosing between two different philosophies of family transport.
The Ford Explorer has long been the “everyman’s” powerhouse, leaning into its truck-like roots with a rear-wheel-drive platform that favors towing and occasional trail use. On the other side, the Infiniti QX60 has evolved from a soft-riding crossover into a sophisticated luxury contender that prioritizes cabin quietness and high-end materials. Both vehicles have their quirks, especially when you start looking at long-term reliability and DIY serviceability.
In this guide, we are going to tear down the specs, look at the common failure points I’ve seen in the shop, and determine which of these SUVs deserves a spot in your driveway. Whether you are planning to haul a boat to the lake or just want the safest, most comfortable ride for the daily commute, we’ve got the technical insights you need.
Performance and Powertrain: American Muscle vs. Japanese Refinement
The heart of the ford explorer vs infiniti qx60 debate starts under the hood. Ford takes a modular approach, offering everything from a punchy 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder to a 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 in the ST trim. The Explorer’s move back to a longitudinal (north-south) engine layout a few years ago was a massive win for driving dynamics and weight distribution.
Infiniti, however, sticks to what they know best: the 3.5L V6. This engine is a legend in the Nissan/Infiniti world, known for its smooth power delivery. Perhaps the biggest news for the QX60 was the retirement of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in favor of a traditional 9-speed automatic. This change alone has significantly boosted the vehicle’s appeal for those concerned about long-term transmission health.
The Ford Explorer Engine Lineup
The 2.3L EcoBoost is surprisingly capable, but the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is the real star. It provides effortless passing power and makes the Explorer feel much smaller than it actually is. If you are a DIYer, you will find the 2.3L much easier to work on, as the engine bay is less cramped than the V6 models.
The Infiniti QX60 V6 Experience
The QX60’s V6 produces 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. It’s a naturally aspirated engine, meaning no turbos to worry about as the miles climb. The power is linear and predictable, which many drivers prefer over the “surge” of a turbocharged engine. However, it won’t win many drag races against an Explorer ST.
ford explorer vs infiniti qx60: The Off-Road and Adventure Reality Check
If your weekends involve more than just paved roads, the ford explorer vs infiniti qx60 comparison takes a sharp turn. The Ford Explorer is built with adventure in mind, particularly the Timberline trim. This version includes increased ground clearance, steel skid plates, and specialized Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires.
The Infiniti QX60, while available with a very competent Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, is not an off-roader. It is designed for confidence in rain and snow, not for crawling over rocks or navigating deep mud. Its lower front fascia and luxury-tuned suspension are prone to damage if you push them too far off the beaten path.
Ground Clearance and Suspension
The Explorer generally offers about 7.9 to 8.7 inches of ground clearance depending on the trim. The QX60 sits lower, making it easier for kids to climb into but more susceptible to scraping on steep driveways or forest service roads. If you plan on doing your own suspension work, the Explorer’s layout is more traditional and easier to navigate for a weekend mechanic.
Drive Modes and Terrain Management
Ford’s Terrain Management System is robust, offering specific modes for Deep Snow/Sand and Trail. Infiniti’s system is more simplified, focusing on “Personal,” “Sport,” and “Snow” modes. For the off-road enthusiast, the Ford is the clear winner here, providing more mechanical control over how power is distributed to the wheels.
Interior Comfort, Cargo, and Family Utility
Inside the cabin is where the ford explorer vs infiniti qx60 battle becomes a matter of taste. The Explorer’s interior is functional and durable, but even in higher trims like the Platinum, it can feel a bit “plastic-heavy” compared to the Infiniti. Ford focuses on utility, with easy-to-clean surfaces and massive cup holders.
The QX60 is a masterclass in modern luxury. You’ll find quilted semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood trim, and a serene cabin environment. Infiniti has invested heavily in sound deadening, making it one of the quietest rides in its class. If your primary goal is a mobile sanctuary for long road trips, the Infiniti is hard to beat.
- Third-Row Access: The QX60 features a brilliant one-touch second-row seat that tilts and slides even with a child seat installed.
- Cargo Space: The Explorer offers slightly more total cargo volume when all seats are folded flat, making it better for hardware store runs.
- Infotainment: Ford’s SYNC 4 system is intuitive, though the vertical tablet screen in some trims is a “love it or hate it” feature. Infiniti’s dual-screen setup has been replaced by a single, sleek 12.3-inch touchscreen that is much more user-friendly.
Towing Capacity: Hauling the Toys
In the debate of ford explorer vs infiniti qx60, the Ford often wins on pure raw numbers, but the Infiniti is surprisingly stout. When properly equipped, the Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds with the V6 engine. This is plenty for a medium-sized camper or a pair of ATVs on a trailer.
The Infiniti QX60 is no slouch either, boasting a 6,000-pound maximum towing capacity across its lineup when equipped with the factory tow package. This includes an upgraded transmission cooler and hitch. For a luxury crossover, this is an impressive figure that rivals many body-on-frame SUVs.
Always remember to check your tongue weight and use a weight-distribution hitch if you are pushing the limits of either vehicle. Safety is paramount when towing, so ensure your trailer brakes are properly adjusted and your safety chains are crossed before heading out on the highway.
Maintenance and DIY Serviceability for the Home Mechanic
As an expert at EngineNeeds, I always look at how easy a car is to fix once the warranty expires. In the ford explorer vs infiniti qx60 matchup, both have their challenges. The Explorer’s longitudinal engine makes reaching the front of the engine (belts, water pump, alternator) relatively straightforward.
The Infiniti QX60 uses a transverse-mounted V6, which is common for FWD-based platforms. This means the rear bank of spark plugs is tucked against the firewall, often requiring the removal of the intake manifold for a tune-up. It’s a tedious job for a DIYer, but certainly doable with the right swivel sockets and a bit of patience.
Common Issues to Watch For
- Ford Explorer: Keep an eye on the 10-speed transmission for harsh shifts. Often, a software “relearn” or update can fix this, but it’s something to monitor. Also, check for oil leaks around the plastic oil pans on earlier 2.7L/3.0L models.
- Infiniti QX60: While the new 9-speed is better than the old CVT, it is still a complex unit. Early versions of the VQ35DD engine had some carbon buildup issues on the intake valves due to direct injection; using a high-quality fuel system cleaner can help mitigate this.
Oil Changes and Fluid Service
Both vehicles are relatively friendly for standard oil changes. The Explorer’s oil filter is usually easy to access from underneath. The QX60 requires removing a small plastic access panel in the wheel well or under-tray, which is a minor annoyance but keeps the job clean.
Safety Technology and Driver Assistance
Safety is a non-negotiable for family SUVs. Ford includes its Co-Pilot360 suite as standard, which features blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims add adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, which is a lifesaver in heavy traffic.
Infiniti counters with ProPILOT Assist. This system is one of the more “natural-feeling” driver aids on the market. It doesn’t ping-pong you between lanes and handles braking and acceleration smoothly. Infiniti also offers a Smart Rear View Mirror, which uses a camera to show you what’s behind the car even if the cargo area is packed to the ceiling with camping gear.
Both vehicles have earned high marks from the IIHS and NHTSA, making them top-tier choices for protecting your passengers. However, always remember that these systems are “assistants,” not “replacements” for an attentive driver. Keep your sensors clean of mud and salt to ensure they function correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions About ford explorer vs infiniti qx60
Which vehicle is more reliable for long-term ownership?
Historically, the Infiniti V6 engine (the VQ series) is incredibly robust, often reaching 200,000 miles with basic maintenance. Now that the CVT is gone, the QX60 has a slight edge in powertrain longevity. The Explorer is also reliable, but its turbocharged engines and complex 10-speed transmission may require more specialized care as they age.
Which has better resale value: ford explorer vs infiniti qx60?
The Infiniti QX60 tends to hold its value slightly better in the luxury market, especially as the brand has a reputation for reliability. However, the Explorer ST and Timberline trims have a cult following that keeps their used prices high among enthusiasts and off-roaders.
Is the Ford Explorer better for towing than the QX60?
While the QX60 has a higher maximum rating (6,000 lbs vs 5,600 lbs), the Explorer’s rear-wheel-drive architecture is generally considered superior for towing stability. If you frequently tow near the limit, the Explorer may feel more planted on the road.
Can I use regular gas in both SUVs?
The Ford Explorer’s EcoBoost engines can run on regular 87-octane, but you will see better performance and fuel economy with premium. The Infiniti QX60 “recommends” premium fuel for maximum horsepower, but it can run on regular without damaging the engine, though you may notice a slight drop in power.
Final Verdict: Which SUV Should You Buy?
When the dust settles on the ford explorer vs infiniti qx60 comparison, the right choice depends on your lifestyle. If you are a DIYer who loves the outdoors, needs to tow a boat, and wants a vehicle that can handle a dirt trail, the Ford Explorer is your best bet. Its mechanical layout and aggressive trims like the Timberline and ST offer a level of excitement the Infiniti can’t match.
However, if your “adventure” is more about navigating the urban jungle in total comfort, the Infiniti QX60 is the superior choice. The interior is significantly more luxurious, the ride is quieter, and the move to a 9-speed automatic has fixed the vehicle’s biggest historical weakness. It is a sophisticated, high-capacity cruiser that makes the daily grind feel a lot less like work.
Regardless of which you choose, stay on top of your fluid changes and listen to what your vehicle is telling you. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping these complex machines on the road for years to come. Stay safe and stay comfortable!
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