There aren’t too many families who actually need a 7-passenger SUV, but, if you have a bustling crew and you’re looking for space and comfort, the QX is a pretty good choice.

You’ll find several choices in this segment with three rows of seats, but one advantage the Infiniti offers is a sliding second row that makes for easier access to the way-back. And, for anyone who has ever contorted themselves to squeeze back there, you realize how valuable that can be.

The second and third row seats also recline, which is nice.

I’ve owned an Infiniti in the past (the G37), so I wasn’t surprised by the quality of the materials inside. Infiniti will always make sure you feel pampered as you commute. The list of standard features is impressive, especially given the starting MSRP ($43,800 for the test vehicle). Things like bi-xenon lights, foglights, heated/folding side-mirrors, keyless entry, and a power lift gate make your life a little easier.

Options? Many. In fact, you’ll have to spend some time weighing the various packages. We live in a option-package world these days. However, I’d give serious consideration to at least the Technology Package (which gives you backup collision warning, blind spot warning, distance control assistance, and more) and the Deluxe Touring Package (delivering an upgraded Bose sound set, heated second-row seats to spoil your passengers, and an extended moon-roof and power sunshade for the back).

Then we get to the power plant. To be sure, even with its size, the QX is not a beast. The 265-horsepower V6 does a respectable job, but it’s not going to blow any other cars off the road. I found that getting up to highway speed caused the vehicle to lumber a bit. Granted, once you’re a cruising speed the QX is a very good ride. It handles the bumps and imperfections of the road quite well.

Expect front-wheel drive to come standard, but I drove the all-wheel-drive version. Plus, you can find a hybrid edition of the QX, too. However, from what I gather, the fuel savings for the hybrid are not stellar. My AWD test vehicle is rated at about 22 mpg combined, while reports for the hybrid show it to average around 26. That’s not much improvement.

The luxury SUV category is brimming with some solid players. Infiniti finds itself squarely in the middle of the pack with the QX, but still offers a quality choice for you to consider.