1997 INFINITI QX4 3.5L V6 4AT AWD (243 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Infiniti made the first step onto the off-road segment with the introduction of the QX4 model in 1997 with a re-badged and re-worked version of the Nissan Pathfinder.

After Acura and Lexus introduced SUVs in their lineups in 1995, with the SLX and the LX450, respectively, Infiniti found itself as the only Japanese premium carmaker that couldn’t offer a competitor for them. In 1995, Nissan introduced the second generation of the Pathfinder, and it was considered an excellent starting point.

While it shared most body panels with the Pathfinder, the QX4 featured a different front fascia. It sported a new grille with a thick horizontal slat and a pair of reshaped headlights with corner-mounted turn signals. The carmaker installed the stationary lamps and the fog lights. On its sides, the QX4 featured side steps to ease-up the ingress and egress from the car. In the back, the carmaker installed the spare wheel under the floor and not on the tailgate.

Inside, the differences between the QX4 and the Pathfinder were obvious. The premium version came fitted as standard with leather seats, dual airbags, automatic transmission, and a premium sound system with AM/FM Stereo, CD, and cassette player. In the back, the car featured a 60/40 split-folding bench with a reclining seatback.

For the powertrain, Nissan offered a 3.3-liter V-6 engine shared with the Pathfinder, but the QX4 had a different traction system, which allowed it to go RWD, AWD with an automatic front-rear torque transfer, and a 4×4 lock with 50/50 torque split. Its independent suspension ensured a comfortable ride while the standard ABS with discs at the front and drums increased the vehicle’s safety.