The front of the Q50 is anchored by a smooth character line that rises from a “double arch” grille, then flows along the side to merge with the rear end. The new grille’s threedimensional quality is provided by elaborate detailing of the waved mesh pattern surface and chrome surround, with the distinctive LED headlights and daytime running lights.
Two power trains for the Q50 are offered in the U.S., including a 3.7-liter aluminum-alloy DOHC 24-valve V-6 rated at 328 hp and 269 pound-feet of torque. The engine has Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) and Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL).
Also available is an advanced hybrid powertrain featuring the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control. It combines a 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy V-6 and compact laminated lithium-ion battery design with an innovative one-motor/two-clutch motor control. The system’s V-6 is rated at 302 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the advanced 50 kW electric motor is rated at 67 hp and 214 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system net power is 360 hp, providing strong acceleration and lean fuel economy.
Both Q50 powertrains are matched with an advanced seven-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode and available steering columnmounted magnesium paddle shifters. The Q50 is available in rear-wheel drive and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with both powertrains.
There also is a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder turbo diesel engine available for the Q50 in Europe, producing 170 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque, also available with a seven-speed automatic.
Precise handling is provided by a fourwheel independent multi-link suspension, the front a single pivot double-wishbone design, while the revised rear uses a multi-link design with coil springs and Dual Flow Path shock absorbers.
Also offered is Active Lane Control, which uses a camera-based system to enhance lanekeeping capability. The system is included as part of the Lane Departure Prevention system, not only adjusting for unintended lane drift, but also making finer adjustments for minor road surface changes or crosswinds.
On the inside, the Q50 instrument panel is updated while the front and rear seats incorporate a new ergonomic design, developed to help distribute body pressure across a wider range of the upper seating surface. There is ample front and rear headroom, and good rear knee room enhanced by the new, thin front seatback design.
The MSRP on the 2014 Infiniti Q50 sports sedan is $37,355.
[author image=”http://www.samaonline.org/Ron.jpg” ]Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.[/author]
