2019 Honda CR-V vs 2019 INFINITI QX50

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 had an upscale and luxurious appearance that was immediately noticeable. It was wider and taller than its predecessor, now featuring front-wheel-drive, which provided an additional two inches of ground clearance and more internal space. Specifically, the trunk delivered 31.4 cubic feet of space, an increase of 13 cubic feet from the previous model. The modular rear seats that could slide and recline further enhanced its versatility and user customization. Despite these adjustments, rear legroom remained sufficient, accommodating even a 6'4" individual comfortably. However, the panoramic sunroof did bring the headliner close enough to be a minor discomfort for taller occupants.

Internally, the redesigned QX50 was spacious and garnished with high-quality materials that elevated its aesthetic appeal. The new infotainment system added to the interior's modernity and functionality. Quietness was a notable feature, attributed to an advanced noise-canceling system. Conversations at highway speeds were clear and effortless, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Starting at $36,550 for the base “Pure” trim, the QX50 was well-equipped with LED headlights, a hands-free liftgate, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone auto climate controls, power front seats, and a forward-collision warning and mitigation system with auto emergency braking. The mid-tier “Luxe” trim, priced at $39,400, added LED fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, blind-spot monitoring, and optional heated seats. The top-tier “Essential” trim, at $43,350, significantly enhanced the technological offerings, including navigation, three-zone climate controls, parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and leather seats.

For those opting to add more luxury and safety features, the Sensory package ($7,500) included heated and cooled seats, a Bose stereo, upgraded climate control, adaptive LED headlights, a memory system, and aesthetic upgrades like 20-inch wheels, suede trims, and open-pore wood and metallic accents. ProPilot Assist, part of the ProACTIVE package ($2,000), offered mild autonomous capabilities for steering, accelerating, and braking, particularly useful in heavy traffic.

In comparison, the 2019 Honda CR-V came with four trims—LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring—each offering either FWD or AWD. Prices ranged from $24,350 plus $1,045 destination charges, up to $34,150 plus destination. The CR-V LX featured standard 17-inch aluminum wheels, giving it an appealing look. Higher trims had body-colored accents, larger 18-inch wheels, and additional rear privacy glass, elevating its allure. The front styling was a point of contention, but the rear design was notably upscale.

Inside, the CR-V exuded a high-quality feel, from the materials used to the layout of controls. The 2-tone tan-over-black interior option was particularly striking. Despite the use of hard plastics, they neither looked nor felt cheap. However, the absence of a front passenger seat height adjuster was a drawback, especially for those who preferred a higher seating position.

The driver's seat across all trims except the base LX was a 12-way power adjustable, ensuring comfort. Heated front seats were standard on all but the LX, and a heated steering wheel was available for an additional $500. The spacious backseat featured air vents and USB ports, ensuring comfort for taller passengers or three children. The CR-V provided ample storage, with a sizable glove box and center console bin. Cargo capacity was extensive—offering 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and an impressive 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, which rivaled larger SUVs like the Honda Passport.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 featured a notable innovation with its turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, acclaimed as the first mass-produced variable-compression engine. This technological marvel allowed the engine to adjust the compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1, balancing power and efficiency. However, the performance figures—268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque—were underwhelming compared to the concept's promise. The 6.4-second 0-60 mph time was slower than the previous V6 model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) mated to the engine was not effective, leading to a less than ideal driving experience, especially in city conditions.

The QX50's ride leaned more towards comfort rather than sportiness, providing good handling of corners and road imperfections. However, the Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system in the ProACTIVE package received criticism for its lack of mechanical feedback, making the steering feel unnatural and inconsistent. Fuel efficiency was also not a strong suit, with the QX50 drawing an EPA rating of 24 city and 31 highway mpg, and a combined rating of 27 mpg—figures that were only moderately impressive compared to competitors.

In contrast, the 2019 Honda CR-V offered two engine options depending on the trim. The base LX featured a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 180 lb-ft of torque at 3,900 rpm, paired with a CVT. The EX, EX-L, and Touring trims came with a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine delivering 190 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. Despite similar peak power and torque, the turbocharged engine was more responsive and provided better acceleration.

The CR-V's turbocharged engine did have some issues in cold weather, such as misfires and power loss due to fuel mixing with engine oil, which Honda addressed with an oil change and software update in certain states. There were also occasional battery problems reported by owners. Fuel economy for the turbocharged engine was slightly below EPA estimates in real-world testing, averaging 27.7 mpg compared to the expected 29 mpg combined.

The CR-V’s driving dynamics were impressive, supported by a well-balanced suspension system. Steering was responsive and varied in weight depending on speed. Braking was reliable and well-modulated, even under demanding conditions such as mountain driving. The Real Time 4WD system provided adequate traction without the complexity of torque vectoring or differential locks, making it suitable for slippery conditions rather than off-road.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 offered a luxurious and spacious interior, with high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. However, the abundance of technology made the cabin feel cluttered. The infotainment system was not user-friendly, suffering from input delays and a confusing mix of control methods that included buttons, dials, and touchscreens. The gear shift design was also peculiar, with an oddly placed “PARK” button causing occasional confusion.

Cargo capacity in the QX50 was generous, with 31.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and additional functionality provided by the sliding and reclining rear seats. With the seats folded, the space increased significantly, making it versatile for various cargo needs.

The Honda CR-V excelled in practicality, offering a well-thought-out interior layout. The driver enjoyed a 12-way power adjustable seat, while the backseat provided ample space for passengers and included conveniences like air vents and USB ports. The omission of a height-adjustable front passenger seat was a drawback, especially for shorter passengers who preferred a higher seating position.

Cargo capacity in the CR-V was one of its strongest suits, with 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. This made the CR-V one of the best in its class for storage, easily accommodating large items and multiple suitcases.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies, but most of these were only available in the top-tier Essential trim or through expensive packages. The ProActive package included intelligent cruise control, blind-spot intervention, and lane-departure warning and intervention, but required a starting price of $45,900 to access. The infotainment system, despite being well-equipped, suffered from significant usability issues, including slow responses and confusing controls.

In contrast, the 2019 Honda CR-V provided a better range of standard and optional technologies. Starting with the EX trim, the CR-V included a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and HondaLink connected services. Higher trims offered options for navigation and a premium sound system. However, the infotainment system had a few drawbacks, such as the absence of a tuning knob, a small screen size, and a voice recognition system that required specific prompts and often misunderstood commands.

Safety features in the 2019 INFINITI QX50 included options like ProPilot Assist and a range of driver-assistance systems, but many of these were only available in higher trims or as expensive packages. The base Pure trim lacked some crucial safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring. Moreover, the QX50 had not been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The 2019 Honda CR-V stood out for its comprehensive safety features, with Honda Sensing being standard on all trims except the base LX. This suite included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, and a road-departure mitigation system. Higher trims also included blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The CR-V received high safety ratings, being a Top Safety Pick according to the IIHS. However, its rating was limited to Acceptable for headlight performance, falling short of theTop Safety Pick Plus accolade.