MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Infiniti Qx50

NHTSA safety across every Infiniti Qx50 model year we cover.

Across the 7 model years of the Infiniti Qx50 we cover (2019 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2020 at 94 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2022 at 87. 11 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial Reviewed against NHTSA data 2026-07-02

The Infiniti QX50 is a compact luxury SUV that competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market, squaring off against rivals like the Acura RDX, BMW X3, and Lexus NX. Aimed at buyers who want premium refinement and a driver-focused cabin without stepping up to a larger footprint, the QX50 has been a cornerstone of Infiniti's lineup since its full redesign for the 2019 model year.

From a pure safety standpoint, the Infiniti QX50 puts together a genuinely respectable record across the 2019 to 2025 model years we cover at MotorCaliber. The model's best NHTSA Safety Index score of 94 out of 100, earned in the 2020 model year, places it in the Exceptional band, which is a meaningful result in a segment where scores often cluster in the Strong range. Crash-test hardware backs that headline number up: the QX50 has posted a 5-star frontal result, a 5-star side result, and a 4-star rollover rating in its best-performing year. The rollover figure is worth noting because it is the one area where the QX50, like most tall-riding crossovers, gives up a star relative to its other scores. On the recall side, 11 recalls across six model years is a number shoppers should take seriously. That pace is not alarming by segment standards, but it is also not trivial, and buyers should verify that any used QX50 they consider has had all open recall work completed through NHTSA's VIN lookup tool. The 222 owner complaints on file include 6 alleged crashes, 3 alleged fires, and 9 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the fire-related reports are worth monitoring given how few it takes to signal a pattern worth watching. Overall, the QX50's crash-test performance is its strongest safety asset, and for buyers prioritizing structural protection, it earns a confident recommendation.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the QX50 as a stylish and well-appointed compact luxury SUV that delivers a comfortable, refined driving experience. Most praise the distinctive cabin design and the variable-compression engine technology as standout features, while some note that the infotainment system and rear passenger space fall short of the segment's best. It is broadly seen as a credible choice in the class.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The 2020 QX50 earned the model's best NHTSA Safety Index score of 94 out of 100, landing in the Exceptional band, making it a strong target year if you are shopping the used market.
  • Rollover protection is rated 4 out of 5 stars in the model's best test year, one star below its frontal and side scores, which is typical for the compact SUV segment but worth factoring in if rollover risk is a priority for you.
  • Eleven recalls have been issued across the 2019 to 2025 model years. Before purchasing any QX50, run the VIN through NHTSA's free lookup tool to confirm all recall repairs have been completed.
  • Owner complaints on file include 3 alleged fire-related incidents across the covered years. These are unverified allegations, but prospective buyers should monitor NHTSA's complaint database for any emerging patterns and ask a dealer or independent mechanic to inspect the vehicle's electrical and fuel systems before purchase.

Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Infiniti Qx50 with 3 recalls.

BY YEARQx50 by model year