Overview
With an assertive face and creased sheetmetal, the 2021 Infiniti Q50 looks the part of a sports sedan, but it’s not as dynamic as its design suggest. Perhaps its sportiest attribute is its potent 300-hp twin-turbo V-6 powertrain that delivers quick and effortless acceleration. Those who want even an even quicker version will appreciate the 400-hp Red Sport 400 model.
Despite the Q50’s indifferent demeanor when driven enthusiastically, it still provides a comfortable and composed ride. While we’re not particularly impressed with its interior storage and cargo space or its dual-screen infotainment system, we do like its terrific outward visibility and generous front-seat legroom. The 2021 Q50 isn’t nearly as satisfying as rivals such as the BMW 3-series or Mercedes-Benz C-class, but it’s still an attractive and speedy sedan.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Q50 is equipped with a formidable 300-hp twin-turbo V-6 engine paired with an incredibly smooth 7-speed automatic transmission. The car we tested was exceptional in its speed, reaching 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds – shifts were barely detectable even when the driver had called for them using paddle shifters on the steering wheel! Our experience featured 19” wheels but it may be more pleasant to drive on 18″ rims which could conceivably improve matters significantly and make for a smoother ride overall.
Despite the light-weightedness of its steering, it’s not as quick or communicative to control. Infiniti has implemented the Direct Adaptive Steering system for improved performance and handling; however, none of its settings result in a truly rewarding drive with progressive power movement while cornering. In terms of braking distance measured at 169 feet, this isn’t particularly impressive; however, only Audi A4 2.0T Quattro and BMW 330i xDrive performed better – both significantly lighter cars than the Q50.
The Red Sport 400 model comes equipped with a 3.0-liter twin turbo V-6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque coupled to a 7 speed automatic transmission, delivering the power you need for an exhilarating ride. Plus, it accelerates from zero to 60 mph in only 4.5 seconds! Rear wheel drive is standard on these models; all wheel drive can be added if desired for extra grip while driving – so move over competition because this vehicle has plenty of pep!
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Q50 may not have remarkable fuel economy ratings, but the EPA still forecasts a decent 20 mpg in the city and an impressive 29 mpg on the highway for models with rear-wheel drive. Having all-wheel drive will consequently reduce both of those numbers down to 19mpg and 27mpg respectively, while opting for a more powerful Red Sport 400 option would further bring that estimated highway rating even lower – going as far as 26 mpg.
On our rigorous 75-mph fuel-economy route test, the all-wheel drive version of this car lived up to its highway estimate. Sadly, it still fell short of what we witnessed with an AWD BMW M340i (33 mpg) and a rear wheel drive V6 Genesis G70 (29 mpg).
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2021 Q50 hasn’t been fully tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and it was not named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Although the Infiniti does offer a plethora of driver-assistance technology, the majority of that equipment isn’t available on the base model.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Infiniti is known for being a luxury brand, but the Q50 interior doesn’t quite match up to expectations. Its lack of modernity in terms of design and features means it falls short on delivering a truly luxurious experience even with its most expensive models. Additionally, although there’s generous legroom in the front seats, that advantage soon disappears when looking at those sat further back – where space becomes well below average. However, some desirable features such as power-adjustable steering column and driver seat memory settings are available within this model range; unfortunately though certain comforts have been omitted from the options list entirely.
Although the Q50 is comparable in size to its rivals, it doesn’t live up to expectations when considering cargo capacity and interior convenience. It may be a comfortable ride on the highway but certainly not ideal for long family journeys due to its 13 cubic feet of trunk volume- significantly lagging behind other cars such as BMW 3 series sedan or Kia Stinger liftback. To make matters less than ideal, having a folding rear seat isn’t standard; only optional.
Is the Infiniti Q50 a reliable car?
RepairPal has given the Infiniti Q50 a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, which is above average. The BMW 3 Series, which is arguably its main competitor, only scored a 3.0 out of 5.0. This means Q50 owners will spend less on annual repairs compared to most luxury sedan owners.
How many miles are Q50 engines last?
Depending on the car expert you’re talking to, you’ll typically get an answer that the Infiniti Q50 can last somewhere between 200,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. With that range, if you drove your vehicle about 15,000 miles per year, an Infiniti Q50 could last 13 to 20 years.
Are INFINITI engines reliable?
Are Infinitis reliable? Generally, yes, but some Infiniti models are more reliable than others. Overall, they tend to be known for having strong powertrains. Infinitis tend to get a good amount of positive feedback from their drivers and can last longer than the average car with the right maintenance.