Infiniti QX60

Importing a used Infiniti QX60 from the USA

The Infiniti QX60 is a rarity on German roads, which is exactly why so many buyers ask us to source one. It is a three-row, seven-seat luxury crossover built on the same platform as the Nissan Pathfinder, but dressed with softer materials, quieter running and Infiniti's own styling. For families who want a well-equipped US SUV that stands apart from the usual German premium badges, the QX60 is a genuinely interesting import. It matters for customs, too: the QX60 is assembled in Smyrna, Tennessee, so a US-built example will frequently qualify for the 0% EU import duty when its origin is provable from the VIN and plant — the detail is covered below.

Model history: years and generations

The car launched for 2013 as the Infiniti JX35, then was renamed QX60 for the 2014 model year under Infiniti's new naming scheme. That first generation (2013–2020, L50 platform) ran a long production life with a 2016 facelift that updated the front end, added active safety technology and revised the interior. A petrol-electric QX60 Hybrid was offered from roughly 2014 to 2017. The second generation arrived for 2022 (L51) with a completely new body, an upright grille, a much richer cabin and a conventional automatic in place of the old CVT. For import, both generations have a following: the first for value, the second for its modern drivetrain and interior.

Engines, transmissions and drive

The first-generation QX60 uses Nissan's familiar 3.5-litre VQ35DE V6, producing around 265 hp, driving through a JATCO CVT (Xtronic) to the front wheels or an available intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The short-lived Hybrid paired a supercharged 2.5-litre four with an electric motor. The second generation switched to the direct-injection 3.5-litre VQ35DD V6 (about 295 hp and 270 lb-ft) mated to a nine-speed ZF-sourced automatic — a major improvement in feel and towing manners over the old CVT. All versions are smooth, torque-rich cruisers rather than sporting SUVs, which suits their remit.

Equipment lines and body styles

The QX60 is offered only as a three-row crossover. First-generation trims ran from base to Premium, with popular Deluxe Touring and Technology packages adding adaptive cruise, a panoramic roof and around-view cameras. The second generation is structured as Pure, Luxe, Sensory and the top Autograph, the latter with quilted semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood and a 17-speaker Bose sound system. Autograph and Sensory examples carry the equipment European buyers most want, so they are the trims we are asked to find most often.

The US used market

QX60 supply in the United States is healthy because it has been a strong seller for Infiniti throughout its life. Typical import candidates are three to nine years old with 40,000 to 110,000 miles. Warm, dry states offer the cleanest bodies and undersides; northern examples need an underbody check. First-generation cars are plentiful and represent the value end; clean second-generation Autograph models are the most sought after. Every car we consider is screened through service records and a Carfax or AutoCheck history before purchase.

Is an import right for you?

The QX60 suits families who need three usable rows, want a quiet and comfortable luxury cabin, and like the idea of driving something their neighbours do not. It is a road-biased SUV: comfortable, refined and well-equipped rather than off-road capable. Buyers who tow occasionally or want the best drivetrain should target the second generation with its nine-speed automatic. Those chasing value, and who understand the first-generation CVT's care requirements, can do well with a well-kept 2016–2020 car.

Specs at a glance

Common issues buyers should know

The QX60's reliability story splits by generation. The first-generation car's main concern is the JATCO CVT: if fluid changes were skipped or the vehicle towed heavy loads, the transmission can judder, whine or fail earlier than a conventional automatic — a documented service history and a careful test drive are essential. The VQ35DE V6 itself is a proven, long-lived engine, though timing-chain tensioner noise and occasional oil consumption appear on high-mileage cars. Both generations can show front brake wear, and the panoramic roof drains should be checked for blockages. The second-generation nine-speed automatic is a big step up and avoids the CVT question entirely, which is a strong reason to favour a 2022-or-newer car if budget allows. Whatever the year, verify the AWD system engages and inspect the underbody on northern examples.

Differences from the European version

US QX60s use amber rear turn signals in some years and no rear fog lamp, both handled at the TÜV stage. Headlights are US-specification and generally need beam adjustment or ECE units. The infotainment defaults to US navigation, the instrument cluster reads mph, and tyre pressures are shown in psi. The daytime running light and auto-headlamp logic may differ from German expectations. None of this affects the mechanicals — it is compliance work, not conversion.

Import step by step

We start by agreeing the generation and trim you want and locating suitable cars. A VIN and origin check confirms the plant code and build data. Payment runs through escrow for security. The QX60 is booked onto an ocean freight sailing (container or RoRo) to a North-European port such as Bremerhaven. On arrival we handle customs clearance, then arrange TÜV inspection and individual approval (Einzelabnahme, §21 StVZO), and finally German registration.

Customs and taxes: what applies

Key point: duty depends on the plant of build; only a VIN check secures the 0% rate. Import VAT of 19% applies regardless.

We always separate the two charges. Import duty: under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461, a US-origin vehicle can qualify for 0% EU import duty when origin is provable (VIN/plant), transport is direct and the shipment falls within the window (in force since 1 July 2026, until 31 December 2029). As the QX60 is US-assembled, most examples meet this — but it is never guaranteed and always depends on the individual VIN. Separately, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) always applies on the customs value plus freight, regardless of origin. We act purely as a broker and take no vehicle margin.

Modifications and single-vehicle approval

Typical QX60 work for approval includes ECE-compliant headlights or beam adjustment, fitting a rear fog lamp, and adapting rear indicators where amber is required. The odometer is recorded in miles and documented. Because a CoC is normally unavailable for US Infinitis, the individual approval route verifies lighting, brakes, emissions and dimensions before the registration papers are issued.

What to verify before buying

Common questions

Is the Infiniti QX60 reliable?

The V6 engine is proven and durable. The main caveat is the first-generation CVT, which needs regular fluid changes; the second-generation nine-speed automatic removes that concern entirely.

What are the most common QX60 problems?

First-gen CVT wear, timing-chain tensioner noise on high-mileage V6s, blocked sunroof drains and normal brake wear are the issues we screen for.

Does a used QX60 qualify for 0% EU import duty?

Frequently, because it is US-assembled — but only when US origin is provable via VIN and plant and the shipment meets the regulation's conditions. It is assessed per vehicle and never guaranteed.

Do I still pay VAT?

Yes. The 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) always applies on the customs value plus freight, independent of the duty rate.

Should I choose the first or second generation?

The second generation (2022+) has a superior nine-speed automatic and richer interior. The first generation offers strong value if you accept the CVT's maintenance needs.

Is the QX60 good for families?

Yes. It offers three usable rows, up to seven seats and a quiet, well-equipped cabin — its core strength.

What TÜV changes are required?

Usually ECE headlights or beam adjustment, a rear fog lamp and amber rear indicators, followed by individual approval and registration.

How long does the import take?

From purchase to German plates, typically eight to twelve weeks depending on sailing and TÜV scheduling.

To begin, explore Infiniti in the Carhub, compare the larger Infiniti QX80 and mid-size Infiniti QX50, or view current Infiniti QX60 listings.