2019 Infiniti QX50 Packs World's First Variable Compression Engine

Infiniti has announced the 2019 QX50 SUV that is a mid-size SUV on an all-new platform using new engine tech for the first time in the automotive world. The turbo four is an all-new type of engine that has been 20-years in the making according to Infiniti. The engine is called the VC-Turbo.

That engine is a 2.0L unit that is designed to adjust its compression ratio automatically to optimize power and efficiency to the conditions. Infiniti says that this engine can deliver the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel engine, but the engine runs on gasoline. It makes 268hp and 280 lb-ft making it best in class.

Infiniti says that the QX50 and its fancy engine is expected to deliver 27mpg on the highway for the FWD version and 26mpg for the AWD version. The FWD version with the new VC-Turbo engine offers 35% better fuel efficiency than the outgoing V6 QX50.

The new engine is paired with a CVT transmission. The 2019 QX50 also has ProPilot Assist technologies supporting single lane highway driving. That tech can help control acceleration, braking, and steering during single lane driving.

The new QX50 is a 5-door, five-seater crossover with an all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Infiniti promises 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds for the AWD and 6.7-seconds for the FWD model. Top speed is 143 mph.

SOURCE: Infiniti