Within just a few kilometres behind its wheel, I had a good idea of what I liked about this car, and it distilled down to three areas of operation.
In no particular order they were: the cabin’s quality and functionality; the smooth, linear application of power; and the magnificent manner in which the vehicle’s structural rigidity and its absorbent underpinnings worked harmoniously in delivering a smooth, controlled ride free of suspension noise and strut thump. Bravo Infiniti.
Other upscale manufacturers need to ride in this vehicle to better understand what’s possible when it comes to engineering a quiet yet resilient suspension setup. It’s a benchmark setter in my view, and had me sourcing out rough patches of pavement to repeatedly admire the Q50’s ability to soak up pavement abomination with remarkable grace and composure.
The only carryover from the G37 to the Q50 is the 328 horsepower V6 engine and the seven-speed automatic transmission.
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Q50, a replacement for popular G-Series
In keeping with its former G37 self, the Q50 is the entry-level sports sedan in Infiniti’s lineup. It’s a V6-powered rear-wheel or all-wheel drive four-door sled that sews a holy union between aggressive performance and indulgent luxury. And frankly, that marriage is more successful than most unions of the human kind.
While the G-to-Q rebirth didn’t include a new powertrain other than the addition of a hybrid power plant, the horses remain plentiful at 328. The DOHC 3.7-litre V6 also churns out 269 lb.-ft. at 5,200 rpm. Output is managed by a seven-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual mode and shift paddles for the DIY driver.
Regrettably, there isn’t a true manual gearbox available.
Overall, the powertrain is a Q50 highlight. Power delivery is exceptionally linear and smooth, making this an easy abundance of horses to administer with finesse. While not as hushed as the V6 in the Lexus IS 350, Infiniti’s power plant operates with little audible intrusion into the stylish leather-clad cabin.
The Q50s cabin is beautifully constructed and features the latest in communication, interface, and entertainment technology.
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Steer by wire offersbroad adjustability
It’s referred to by Infiniti as Direct Adaptive Steering but it’s essentially an electronic means of steering the Q50 without a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the steering apparatus beneath the car. Not to fear though, a mechanical linkage snaps together in the event of an electronic failure.
Direct Adaptive Steering allows the driver to adjust steering characteristics, such as resistance and ratio. Infiniti claims that the electronic setup reacts more quickly to steering inputs than a conventional arrangement due to the absence of rubber bushings, which generate inherent steering suspension. While it may be virtual,Infiniti has managed to create a fairly convincing sense of road-feel through its adaptive steering.
For the most part, I enjoyed the tremendous accuracy of the setup and its broad adjustability.
I did find, however, that there is very little on-centre slack, meaning that the slightest movement of the steering wheel resulted in unintended movement within the driving lane. While one will adapt to this sensitivity over time, some initial mindfulness is needed to prevent inadvertent drift, and that brings us to life in the driver’s seat.
2014 Infiniti Q50 instrument cluster.
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Behind the wheel
There may not always be articulable rationale for it, but some cars seem to draw you in more than others. For me, the Q50 is one of those vehicles. I enjoyed time behind its wheel due largely to the sense of solidity that it imparts combined with its exceptional balance between sportiness and
luxury.
Despite a comprehensive array of communication and information technology, I had no difficulty finding my way through the multitude of programs and settings to tailor the car how I wanted it. The large touchscreen integrated into the centre stack is the best example yet of twin-screen technology, which is becoming ever more popular in high-end cars.
A noteworthy observation goes to the effectiveness of Infiniti’s Safety Shield technology, which consolidates a number of warning and detection systems, such as Predictive Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Prevention, to surround the car with a virtual protection shield capable of warning of danger but also reacting to it by applying the brakes or gently returning the car to its own lane.
The Safety Shield can be activated with the touch of a single steering wheel mounted button, making it uniquely convenient and user-friendly. I was impressed with the system, and used it to its fullest.
2014 Infiniti Q50 right side tailight and Q50 badge close up.
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Final words
Pushing the envelope at both ends of the luxury-versus-sportiness continuum is a challenge to all auto makers, especially those in the premium segment. Infiniti has succeeded in expanding the margins on both fronts with its new Q50 while retaining a pricing structure more reasonable than many of its competitors.
rgrothwell@telus.net
The Specs
Type of vehicle: Mid-size premium 4-door sedan with FWD or AWD
Engine: 3.7-litre V6
Power: 328 hp & 269 lb-ft of torque
Transmission: 7-speed automatic
Fuel economy: 11.1 / 7.3 L/100km city / highway with all-wheel-drive
Price range: $37,500 – $47,450 (+$1,995 destination)
