Infiniti tries to compete by bringing more power to the party for the same money. And this 300-hp six-cylinder 3.0t, with its effortless forward thrust, is far quicker than its four-cylinder rivals.
The downside to this gusto is a paltry 22 mpg overall with all-wheel drive. A more frugal—but far less powerful—turbo four-cylinder is also available.
Handling benefits from quick steering that feels natural, an improvement over the detached, video-game feel in earlier Q50s. In cornering, the sedan boasts agility and confidence. The ride has an underlying firmness, but it's steady and composed.
The strong acceleration and enjoyable handling are assets, but the car's race-track attitude compromises the Q50's luxury-car intent. For instance, some $30,000 midsized sedans are quieter inside than this Infiniti.
The interior is mundane but relatively roomy, with good outward visibility. The front seats are short on optimal thigh and lateral support, and the lack of four-way adjustable lumbar is inexcusable. Plus, the illogical infotainment system is a major irritation.
Forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking are optional, and they require additional option packages that add thousands of dollars to the bottom line.
Last, below-average predicted reliability further hurts the Q50's standing.
Read the complete Infiniti Q50 road test.
HIGHS: Acceleration, agility, braking, visibility
LOWS: Cumbersome infotainment system, small trunk, reliability
POWERTRAIN: 300-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine; 7-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive
FUEL: 22 mpg
PRICE AS TESTED: $48,775
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Editor's Note: This article also appeared in the February 2017 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.
