Infiniti made a smart decision in rushing out a performance-tuned version of their Q50 sedan for the upcoming auto show circuit. The Eau Rouge version shown in Detroit doesn’t come with specific powertrain info other than hints that forced induction would yield more than 500 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque should it ever reach production. Turns out that’s enough to get us excited! The Q50 has damaged Infiniti’s reputation as a builder of rewarding sport sedans (The G37 of yore) due to the emphasis on drive-by-wire steering technology and other comfort-oriented technologies that dulled the car’s responses. But a seriously tuned version under the IRL subbrand could do a lot to stir up competition in the CTS-V, M5, E63 world of hot-rod sedans. An aggressive body kit and wheel/tire package along with cross drilled brake rotors are enough to set this car apart from standard Q50s even from across the show floor. We say rearrange your priorities to put driving fun back atop the list and build this car as a mea culpa to your fan base.
Ever since its debut in 1989, Infiniti has made it a priority to offer rear wheel drive alternatives to humdrum front wheel drive luxury sedans. For 2014 Infiniti replaces its well-respected G series sedan with the Q50. The Q50 is the first vehicle to bear Infiniti’s new nomenclature, designating all cars with a Q and all SUVs and crossovers with a QX. Confusing alphanumeric nomenclature notwithstanding, the Q50 looks to be an attractive entry in the midsize luxury sport sedan class. Inside, the Q50 ditches the familiar Infiniti center stack in lieu of a more contemporarily styled dual screen interface. While the rest of the interior appears more conventional, the exterior continues with Infiniti’s theme of fluid motion complete with its new signature c-pillar sculpt. The Q50 will continue use of the 3.7-liter V6 found in the G37 sedan it replaces. Also available will be a 3.5-liter hybrid. As befitting a luxury sedan, the Q50 will offer a broad spectrum of technologies, including Intelligent Cruise Control with Full Speed Range, predictive Forward Collision Warning, Forward Emergency Braking, Distance Control Assist, Blind Spot Intervention, Backup Collision Intervention, Lane Departure Prevention, and Active Lane Control. While those technologies seem to imply Infiniti fears its drivers will be lulled to sleep we expect that the car will be engaging to drive. The Q50 will go on sale in the summer of 2013 as a 2014 model and will be available with rear or all-wheel drive. Read more…
The Infiniti Coupe concept shown at the 2006 NAIAS appears to be a thinly disguised version of the updated G37 Coupe.
My how time flies. This year marks the 20th year that Infiniti has been peddling its premium cars in the great US of A. To celebrate they’ve introduced a Special Editon version of their popular G37 sedan, coupe and convertible. Read more…
