Infiniti QX65 Skips Third Row? Facts

The Infiniti QX65 does not offer a third row; it is strictly a two-row, five-passenger crossover. If you need seating for six or seven, the QX65 is not the vehicle for you, and you should look at the larger Infiniti QX60 or another three-row SUV.

What Is the Infiniti QX65?

The QX65 is Infiniti’s newest two-row coupe-SUV, slotting between the compact QX50 and the three-row QX60. It shares its platform and powertrain with the QX50 but adopts a sloping roofline and a more athletic stance, similar in concept to the BMW X4 or Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe. The “65” designation is new for Infiniti and signals a sportier, more style-focused model rather than a larger one.

Why Does the QX65 Not Have a Third Row?

The QX65 is built on the same front-wheel-drive-based platform as the QX50, which was designed from the start as a two-row vehicle. Adding a third row would require a longer wheelbase, a different rear suspension, and a flatter roofline—all of which would compromise the coupe-like silhouette that defines the QX65. Infiniti already sells a three-row SUV, the QX60, so there is no market gap that a seven-seat QX65 would fill. The sloping rear roof also physically limits headroom in the third row, making it impractical for adult passengers.

How Many People Can the QX65 Seat?

The QX65 seats five people: two in the front and three in the rear. The rear bench is a 60/40 split-folding design, and it offers a decent amount of legroom for a coupe-styled SUV, though headroom is slightly reduced for taller passengers due to the roofline. Cargo space is also less than the boxier QX50 because of the sloping tailgate, but the rear seats fold flat to expand the load area when needed.

What Are the Main Alternatives to the QX65?

If you are considering the QX65 but need a third row, here are the most direct alternatives:

Infiniti QX60 – The brand’s own three-row SUV, with seating for up to seven and a more practical, upright design.
Acura MDX – A three-row luxury SUV with a sporty feel and standard V6 power.
Lexus RX 350L (or TX) – The RX L offered a cramped third row; the newer TX is a proper three-row model.
BMW X5 – Available with an optional third row, though it is best for children.
Genesis GV80 – A luxury three-row SUV with a coupe-like design option (GV80 Coupe) that still offers a third row.

None of these have the exact same coupe styling as the QX65, but they all offer the extra seating you would be missing.

How Does the QX65 Compare to the QX50?

The QX65 and QX50 share the same engine, transmission, and most interior tech, but they differ in key ways:

Roof line: The QX65 has a sloping rear roof, the QX50 is more upright.
Cargo space: The QX50 offers more cargo volume behind the rear seats.
Rear headroom: The QX50 has more headroom for rear passengers.
Price: The QX65 is typically priced slightly higher due to its styling and standard equipment.

If you value practicality over style, the QX50 is the better choice. If you want the coupe look and do not need maximum cargo space, the QX65 is the one to pick.

What Are Common Problems with the QX65?

Because the QX65 is new, long-term reliability data is not yet available. However, it shares its powertrain with the QX50, which has had some reported issues with its variable-compression turbocharged engine, including rough idling and occasional warning lights. Infiniti has issued software updates for these issues, but it is worth checking for recalls or service bulletins before buying a used model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is also a point of concern for some buyers, though it has been generally reliable in Infiniti’s other models.

How Much Does the QX65 Cost?

Pricing for the 2025 QX65 starts around $50,000 and can exceed $60,000 with options like all-wheel drive, premium audio, and driver-assistance packages. That places it in the same range as the QX50, but with less practicality. If you are on a budget, the QX50 is the more sensible value; if you want the latest design, the QX65 justifies its premium.

Is the QX65 Safe?

The QX65 has not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA as of this writing, so official safety ratings are pending. It comes standard with a full suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems are similar to those in the QX50, which has earned top safety ratings in the past, so the QX65 is likely to perform well when tested.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Infiniti QX65 have a third row?

No, the QX65 is strictly a two-row, five-passenger vehicle. Infiniti does not offer a third-row option on this model.

Can you add a third row to a QX65?

No, you cannot add a third row to a QX65. The platform and body are not designed for it, and there are no factory or aftermarket kits that safely convert it to a seven-seater.

What is the difference between the QX65 and QX60?

The QX65 is a two-row, coupe-styled SUV, while the QX60 is a traditional three-row SUV with more passenger and cargo space. The QX65 is sportier and less practical; the QX60 is more family-oriented.

Is the QX65 bigger than the QX50?

The QX65 is slightly longer and lower than the QX50, but it has less cargo space and rear headroom due to the sloping roof. It is not a larger vehicle in terms of interior volume.

When will the QX65 be available?

The 2025 Infiniti QX65 went on sale in late 2024 and is currently available at Infiniti dealerships in the United States and other markets.

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