2018 Infiniti Q50 Sedan

There is no shortage of option as the Q50 is available in three trims Luxe, Pure and Sports which is further divided into four sub trims 2.0t, 3.0t, Red Sport 400 and Hybrid. You get three engine options to choose from, the base Pure is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine while the Luxe trim is available with either the 2.0-liter engine or the 300-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6.

Debuted in 2014, the Infiniti Q 50 has undergone major changes since then. The trims have been renamed and divided into Pure, Luxe, Sport and Red Sport 400. Exterior now gets upgraded front and rear styling along with new taillight. Interior is upgraded with a new steering, shift knob, and leather stitching.

Trim Level and Features

2018 Infiniti Q50 trims are divided into Luxe, Pure and Sport while the sub trims include 2.0t, 3.0t, Red Sport 400 and Hybrid. Every trim is not available with every engine option, the Q50 Pure is only available with the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. While, you get to choose between the engines in the Luxe as it is available with all the three-engine option, a 2.0-liter turbocharged, 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 or the V-6 powered hybrid.

The sports trims get a standard V-6 engine while the Red Sport 400 adds a more powerful 400-horsepower V-6. All the trims get rear wheel drive however you can upgrade to all-wheel drive for $2,000. Infiniti has priced the base model with AWD at $36,200 while the top trim Hybrid Luxe is priced at $52,600 (AWD).

Trims	2.0t Pure	2.0t Luxe	3.0t Luxe	3.0t Sport	Red Sport 400	Hybrid Luxe
MSRP(RWD)	$34,200	$36,550	$38,950	$40,650	$51,000	$50,600
MSRP(AWD)	$36,200	$38,550	$40,950	$42,650	$53,000	$52,600
Features	17-inch alloy wheels with all-season performance run-flat tires. Rain sensing wipers. 8-way Power Driver and Front Passenger Seats. Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control. INFINITI Intelligent Key. RearView Monitor. INFINITI InTouch dual displays. Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System.	2.0t Pure+ Power sliding, tinted glass Moonroof. 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Maple wood interior trim. HomeLink Universal Transceiver. Chrome front fascia finishers.	2.0t Luxe+ Electronic Power Steering.	19-inch Sport-design aluminum-alloy wheels Summer performance run-flat tires. Kacchu Aluminum interior trim. Leather-appointed sports seats with manual thigh extension. Driver's seat power lumbar and power side bolsters.	3.0t Sport+ 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels Semi-aniline quilted leather sports seats with red contrast stitching Dark metallic, dynamic tactile steering wheel-mounted paddle. shifters. Unique Dark Chrome interior accents. Black headliner and pillars.	3.0t Luxe+ 19-inch Sport-design aluminum-alloy wheels with summer performance run-flat tires. Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range). 16-Speaker Performance Series Audio.

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Do not go for the base trim as it does not offer much apart from standard features. The Luxe available with all the three powertrains and optional packages adds many features providing more flexibility. The 300-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine delivers a strong performance in the Luxe trim. If you feel 300-horses are not enough the Red Sport with a stronger V-6 that delivers 400-horsepower should be your answer but it does come at a price.

Engine and Transmission

Power comes effortlessly on both the 300-horsepower V-6 and the 400-horsepower V-6 engine in the Red Sport 400. Both the engines are much zestier with great acceleration. Turbo lag is minimum with impressive driving dynamics. The sound from the engine is remarkable with a resonant V-6 exhaust note. Meanwhile, the Hybrid Q50 is the most fuel efficient in the roster and is powerful too. It is also mated to a V-6 engine and an electric motor that together produce 360-horsepower.

Infiniti has offered three powertrains in the 2018 Q50 to choose from and they are powerful enough to take on the rivals. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque outguns the base BMW 320i while the 300-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 with 295 pound-feet of torque makes for a strong competition in the mid-range trims.

Models	Infiniti Q50 Pure 2.0t Pure	BMW 320i	Volvo S60 T5 Dynamic	Mercedes C300
MSRP	$34,200	$34,900	$34,100	$41,245
Engine	2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine	2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine	2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine	2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
Transmission	7-speed automatic	8-speed automatic	8-speed automatic	9-speed automatic
Power	208 hp @ 5500 rpm	180 hp @ 5000 rpm	240 hp @ 5600 rpm	241 hp @ 5550 rpm
Torque	258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm	200 lb-ft @ 1250 rpm	258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm	273 lb-ft @ 1300 rpm

We still haven’t talked about the best in the line-up – The Red Sport 400. Equipped with a much powerful V-6 that churns out 400-hp and 350-pound-feet of torque, it is one of the best in the class when it comes to performance. There is a 7-speed automatic transmission on each engine with no manual option. Rear-wheel drive comes standard on both the engine and you get all-wheel drive as an option.

In the Hybrid version, the 3.5-liter V-6 mated to the 1.4kwh battery and a 50-watt electric motor together produces 360 horsepower in the Q50 Hybrid Luxe. It is the most fuel efficient and is offered in the rear or all-wheel drive. Some extra features include adaptive cruise control and a premium Bose audio system which come as standard.

Acceleration

The Q50 is a highly competent luxury sedan that's enjoyable to drive. It drives like a smaller car, and that's a compliment." - Edmunds

The 2018 Infiniti Q50 is the fastest of the lot in making 0-60. It takes only 5.7 seconds to cover the distance which is best in the class. The closest rival Volvo S60 and the Mercedes C300 takes good 6.5 seconds in going from 0-60. However, there is a catch, the Q50 impresses with early acceleration but it fails to hold its ground when it comes to covering a quarter mile. From being the fastest it drops to be the slowest by taking 15.9 seconds for a quarter mile.

Models	Infiniti Q50 Pure 2.0t Pure	BMW 320i	Volvo S60 T5 Dynamic	Mercedes C300
0-60 MPH	5.7 sec	7.1 sec	6.5 sec	6.5 sec
Quarter mile	15.9 sec @ 89.3 mph	15.2 sec @ 90.1 mph	15.1 [email protected] 88 mph	14.9 sec @ 93.4 mph
Engine	2.0L	2.0L	2.0L	2.0L
Emission Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year	7.1	6.3	6.1	6.6

Braking and Handling

"All of this equates to very balanced and stable driving dynamics when in Sport and Sport+ modes. The Q50's turn-in is secure and precise with minimal body roll. … On long sweeping turns, you start feeling the weight of the luxurious sedan… Braking feel and power is superb, and the ABS was never intrusive." - Motor Trend

While most luxury cars come with front-wheel drive, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 like other in the competition offers a standard rear-wheel drive (AWD optional). It gets an update suspension and improved steering which feels light and quick to respond. Handling is agile and there is not much body roll while cornering. The available Direct Adaptive steering system, however, (allows you to adjust the amount of energy required to turn the wheel) feels restive in normal condition.

Model	Infiniti Q50 Pure 2.0t Pure	BMW 320i	Volvo S60 T5 Dynamic	Mercedes C300
Brake pads-front(in)	12.6	12.3	11.8	13.0
Brake pads Rear(in)	12.1	11.8	11.9	11.8
Curb weight(lbs)	3671	3295	3619	3417
60-0 MPH (ft.)	109	116	120	118

The DAS, meanwhile, is only available as an option as the Q50 comes equipped with electric steering which is quite responsive when you are going fast. Overall, you will enjoy driving around in the 2018 Infiniti Q50 as it offers a smooth ride over most road surface. Even brakes feel strong and easy to modulate with a braking distance of 109-feet which is best in the segment.

Well, you can’t have everything and the Q50 scores poorly in terms of fuel efficiency which is lowest in the class. The base engine earns an EPA rating of 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Things become worst from poor as the V-6 engine is rated at 20 mpg and 29 mpg on the highway. The Red Sport with 400 horsepower gets you 20/26 mpg.

Model	Infiniti Q50 Pure 2.0t Pure	BMW 320i	Volvo S60 T5 Dynamic	Mercedes C300
MPG city	23	24	25	24
MPG highway	30	35	39	33
MPG combined	25	28	29	27

However, all is not lost with the Infiniti Q50 as the Hybrid comes as a savior. It is rated at 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Not to mention these ratings are still only slightly better than the most non-hybrid cars in the class.

"The Q50 offers a good balance of luxury and sport, and the interior reflects that. The materials' quality and fit and finish are very good, and the design is a smart mix of precision and luxury." Kelley Blue Book

Infiniti has stuck to its design which is almost a decade old now, however superior material has been used in the cabin of 2018 Q50. It feels robust from inside and all the controls are within reach. The touchscreen infotainment system has some drawback as the display is often concealed by glares and fingerprints. The interior of the Infiniti Q50 as compared to the newer luxury sports sedans feels average.

 Seating and Comfort

"The Q50's low step-in height and wide seats facilitate easy entrances and exits. As an added bonus, the doors swing open with surprising ease. The airy cabin and the contoured dashboard provide a usefully large space. Six-footers can occupy the backseat with headroom to spare." Edmunds

The 2018 Infiniti Q50 is very quiet even at highway speed. Wind noise is minimal but the rumbling engine and tire will also not bother you. Suspensions are strong and do a good job in isolating the driver and passenger from bumpy roads. Getting in and out of the car is easy. The Q50 being the longest in the segment ensures that even the tallest person can be at ease in the back seat.

Model	Infiniti Q50 Pure 2.0t Pure	BMW 320i	Volvo S60 T5 Dynamic	Mercedes C300
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5
Passenger Volume (ft cube)	101.5	91.0	93.0	88.2
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	40.2/56.7/44.5	40.3/55.1/42	38.6/57/41.9	40.9/55.3/41.7
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	37.5/56.1/35.1	37.7/55.1/35.1	37.6/55.2/33.5	37.1/55/35.2

Infiniti’s seats are extremely comfy and offer plenty of support to the drivers. Cushioning on the seats are soft and firm at the same time to keep you in control while aggressive driving. Seats come standard with leatherette upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. Optional feature includes:

• Leather upholstery
• Heated front seats
• Front sports seats with greater side support
• Heated steering wheel

Infotainment

The dual touchscreen makes things a bit complicated inside the cabin of the 2018 Infiniti Q50, although, it is quick to respond and easy to navigate. Both the screens perform different functions, the upper one is the viewer for rearview camera and navigation system while the lower one displays audio, climate and other systems. An uncommon feature that the car boasts is that its upgraded climate control system includes an air purifier which is not found in most luxury cars. Standard feature includes:

• Bluetooth
• Satellite radio
• Dual-zone climate control
• HD radio
• Two USB ports
• A rearview camera
• Infiniti’s InTouch infotainment system with voice recognition
• 8-inch touchscreen up and 7-inch touchscreen below
• Smartphone integration

Cargo Space

The base 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine offers 13.2 cubic feet of trunk space while the model equipped with V-6 engine comes with 13.5 cubic feet. The Q50 has the best cargo space in the class with a split-folding rear seat, so that you can easily carry larger items. The hybrid model, however, cuts down the trunk space to 9.4 cubic feet.

Model	Infiniti Q50 Pure 2.0t Pure	BMW 320i	Volvo S60 T5 Dynamic	Mercedes C300
Volume (cube ft.)	13.2	13.0	12.0	12.6

The 2018 Infiniti Q50 gets an enhanced look with some visual updates. There are no changes made in the hood and the headlights but the front grille has been modified.  A bolder and wider bumper differentiate the 3.0t Sport and the Q50 Red Sport 400 trim. Overall, the Sports Sedan looks stylish and more aggressive than its predecessors.

Design and Styling

Visual gaps within the trims are quite prominent.  The Pure and the Luxe trim gets a 17 or 18-inch alloy wheel, a smaller fog light and a body-color exhaust while the Sport and the Red Sport 400 comes with a dark chrome, larger wheel size, and fog light.  It also distinguishes itself further with a black lower-bumper section and a distinct body color diffuser.

Model	Infiniti Q50 Pure 2.0t Pure	BMW 320i	Volvo S60 T5 Dynamic	Mercedes C300
Curb weight(lbs)	3671	3295	3619	3417
Length(in)	189.6	182.5	182.5	184.5
Width(in)	71.8	71.3	73.4	71.3
Height(in)	57.2	56.3	58.4	56.8
Ground clearance(in)	5.0	6.0	5.4	4.8
Wheelbase(in)	112.2	110.6	109.3	111.8
Track width(in) F/R	60.8/61.6	60.3/61.9	62.1/62.0	61.5/60.9

Looking at the sides the story remains almost the same with no noticeable changes. Only the windows have now been finished with gloss black matching the side view mirrors. From the back, the taillight has been updated to give a more modern look. Changes apart, the Infiniti has maintained its curves for the best and is one of the most attractive looking vehicles in the segment.

Neither the NHSTA nor the IIHS has fully tested the Infiniti Q50. However, it gets a five-star rollover rating by the NHSTA and a “Good” overall score in the crashworthiness by the IIHS. We will update the safety rating once the tests are concluded by the agency.

On the reliability front, Infiniti backs the Q50 with a 4-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

NHSTA Ratings

NHTSA Ratings
Overall Rating	Not Rated
Overall Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Not Rated
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Driver	Not Rated
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Passenger	Not Rated
Overall Side Crash Rating	Not Rated
Side Barrier Rating	Not Rated
Side Barrier Rating Driver	Not Rated
Side Barrier Rating Passenger Rear Seat	Not Rated
Side Pole Rating Driver Front Seat	Not Rated
Combined Side Rating Front Seat	Not Rated
Rollover Rating	5 star

IIHS Rating

Crashworthiness
Side	Good
Roof strength	Good
Head restraints & seats	Good

Crash Prevention and Mitigation
Frontal Crash Prevention	Not Rated
Headlights	Not Rated

Safety features

The 2018 Infiniti Q50 boasts an impressive list of safety features to keep the occupant safe. You get adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. It comes with predictive forward collision warning, which detects any change in the speed of the vehicle two cars in front of you and intimating you that the driver ahead may be about to put brakes. Apart from these some of the standard safety features are mentioned below:

• INFINITI Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags with an occupant-classification sensor. Airbag inflation rate is adjusted depending on crash severity. If the front passenger's seat is empty, a sensor will deactivate the airbag
• Glove Box Door Integrated Knee Airbag
• Driver's knee airbag.
• Belt-Minder front safety belt reminder
• Dual front airbags
• Front-seat side-impact airbags
• LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether Anchors for Children)
• Personal Safety System for driver and front passenger
• Rear view camera
• Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags
• SOS Post-Crash Alert System
• Illuminated entry.
• SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System
• Remote keyless entry system.

Infiniti Q50 Vs BMW 320i

The BMW 3 series is far more athletic than the Q50. It is one of the sportiest luxury sedans in the market. BMW offers several engine options, while the zesty M3 churns out more horsepower than the Q50 Red Sport 400. It also offers better fuel economy and handling is buttery smooth. Interior gets plethora of tech features with comfortable seating for adults making it a better choice than the Q50. BMW does come at a price but that is justifiable.

Infiniti Q50 Vs Mercedes C300

Let’s talk about Mercedes-Benz C-class because comparing the two will be like adding insult to injury for the Q50. The Infiniti, however, scores a point in terms of pricing as Benz is one of the most expensive in the lot. Apart from pricing, there is no reason to choose the Infiniti. The C-class showcases a well-designed cabin, comfortable seats and surfeit of features. It is also available as convertible and on-road performance is outstanding with better fuel economy.

Infiniti Q50 Vs Volvo S60

There is not much difference in the pricing between the two cars however passengers will more feel comfortable in the back seat of the Infiniti as it offers better legroom. The Volvo although scores better when it comes to fuel efficiency. Overall, you will be happy in an Infiniti as it delivers exciting performance and more available features than the S60.

There are some things that the Q50 is good at and there are some which it is not. A powerful engine, decent trunk space along with active safety features are some of its impressive features. It is however not a class leader in any area along with some notable shortcomings, like the fuel efficiency. It is well equipped and relatively cheaper than other luxury cars in the segment but doesn’t match up to Germany’s finest yet. With so many better options available in the market it is hard for us to recommend the Infiniti Q50 to the buyers.