2021 INFINITI QX50 vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 stood out in the luxury compact crossover segment with its distinctive design and engineering. Its large honeycomb grille and athletic-looking hood gave it a sporty appearance, while the panoramic moonroof added an airy feel to the cabin. However, visibility issues due to thick B-pillars and a short rear window were noted. The interior featured attractive materials, including aluminum trim and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, with easy-to-use controls and comfortable heated and cooled front seats.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V had a more conventional design that blended in with other crossovers. While it offered a few distinguishing features like a unique grille and chromed plastic accents, its color options were limited, especially in lower trims. The interior was modern with angular seat designs and available wood panels and chrome in higher trims. However, it lacked the distinctive styling found in some competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured a unique 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), producing 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Its VC-Turbo engine adjusted the compression ratio for a balance of power and efficiency. The CVT, while generally smooth, had simulated shift points to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The QX50 offered a drive mode selector with Standard, Sport, Eco, and Personal modes, with Sport mode providing the most engaging driving experience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, came with a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all trims, paired with a CVT. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds, which was competitive within its segment. The CR-V's CVT provided smooth, steady acceleration but lacked the engagement of conventional automatic transmissions found in competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive as an option. The CR-V's suspension setup offered decent handling and ride quality, similar to other vehicles in its class.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 offered a spacious interior with ample hip, shoulder, and headroom, even with the panoramic moonroof. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed 38.7 inches of legroom, and the sliding second-row seats allowed for flexible cargo space. The cargo area provided 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding to 64.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The QX50 also featured numerous storage options and charging ports.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in interior space, with 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Access to the cargo area varied by trim, with higher trims offering power and hands-free tailgate options. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V's design prioritized functionality, making it a practical choice for families and those needing ample cargo space.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 came equipped with the InTouch infotainment system featuring dual display screens, voice recognition, and a suite of connected services. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the 16-speaker Bose audio system provided excellent sound quality. The Around View Monitor and ProPilot Assist added convenience and safety, making the QX50's tech offerings comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2021 Honda CR-V's base LX trim had a basic 5-inch screen, while other trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems, with the Touring trim including a 300-watt system and satellite navigation. Charging ports were plentiful in all but the base trim, and the Touring trim added a wireless phone charger. The CR-V's tech was practical and accessible, catering to a wide range of users.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 boasted a robust suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot warning, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added lane-departure prevention and blind-spot intervention. The QX50 received high safety ratings, with a four-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA and Good ratings from IIHS.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star overall crash test rating from NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Honda's Sensing system, standard across all trims, included features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The only feature not standard on the base trim was blind spot monitoring, which became standard on the EX trim and above.