When did Infiniti stop using the CVT transmission?
Infiniti has not stopped using the CVT across its entire lineup; a key shift began with the 2022 model year when the redesigned QX60 moved to a traditional 9‑speed automatic, while other models continue to rely on CVTs.
Background: Infiniti's use of the CVT
For years, Infiniti leaned on continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) to maximize fuel efficiency in many of its front- and all-wheel-drive models. The automaker’s CVT lineup was widely associated with its “Xtronic” CVT technology, pairing with engines like the VC‑Turbo in certain crossovers and sedans. CVTs are designed to keep the engine in its most efficient RPM range, but they can feel different from traditional automatics, which has influenced buyer opinions over time.
What COMPANIES look for when shifting transmissions
Automakers often weigh fuel economy, acceleration feel, reliability, and maintenance costs when choosing between CVTs and conventional automatics. Infiniti’s move toward more traditional automatics in some models reflects a trend among luxury brands seeking a more conventional driving feel while preserving efficiency in others.
Recent shifts: moving toward traditional automatics
The most conspicuous change occurred with the 2022 redesign of the QX60, which adopted a traditional 9‑speed automatic transmission. This marked a clear step away from CVT technology for at least one of Infiniti’s most popular family SUVs, signaling a broader, model-by-model reassessment rather than a brand-wide abandonment of CVTs.
Before listing specific models, note that transmission choices can vary by trim and market. The following outlines which Infiniti models currently use CVTs and which rely on conventional automatics as of recent model years.
Models that continue to use CVTs
The following Infiniti models are known to continue offering CVTs in at least some trims or configurations, reflecting the brand’s ongoing use of CVT technology in parts of its lineup:
- Infiniti QX50
- Infiniti QX55
Infiniti has positioned these models to emphasize efficiency gains from CVTs, even as other models have moved to traditional automatics.
Models that use traditional automatics (not CVT)
The following Infiniti models rely on conventional automatic transmissions rather than CVTs in current or recent iterations, including the notable shift for the QX60:
- Infiniti Q50
- Infiniti Q60
- Infiniti QX60 (9‑speed automatic, introduced for the 2022 model year)
- Infiniti QX80
These models illustrate the brand’s move toward traditional automatics to provide a different driving feel and performance profile, while still delivering luxury features and efficiency where possible.
What this means for shoppers
For buyers, the transmission choice can influence driving experience, maintenance expectations, and long-term ownership costs. CVTs generally emphasize fuel economy and smooth operation at steady speeds but may feel less sporty to some drivers. Traditional automatics often deliver more familiar shift responses and tractable performance, especially in higher-torque situations. Infiniti’s current strategy appears to be model-specific rather than a blanket policy, giving buyers a choice depending on which model and trim they consider.
Summary
Infiniti has not fully abandoned CVTs; the brand has accelerated a model-by-model transition. The 2022 QX60’s shift to a 9‑speed automatic stands as the clearest example of a move away from CVT, while the QX50 and QX55 continue to offer CVT configurations in line with their efficiency-oriented mission. If you’re shopping Infiniti today, you’ll likely encounter CVTs in some models and conventional automatics in others, so it’s important to verify the exact transmission for the specific trim you’re considering.
