INFINITI Q50 MY 2018: Prestige Technology!

I’m driving an Infiniti Q50 MY 2018 for a review. Just renewed with a facelift for 2018, Infiniti Q50 is the best-selling car of the Japanese brand. For this new model the main updates are a new style of the front grille and new LED headlamps front and rear, confirming a harmonious design but extremely attentive to aerodynamics.

Infiniti Q50 – front three-quarter, grey metallic on a country roadInfiniti Q50 – front three-quarter, grey metallic in a wooded areaInfiniti Q50 – detail, rear badge and taillight close-up

The version I’m driving, the Infiniti Q50 Sport Tech, is also characterized by a more sporty front bumper, with increased air intakes, which gives it aggression and helps make it more attractive on the road.

Infiniti Q50 – rear three-quarter, grey metallic in a forestInfiniti Q50 – detail, rear badge close-upInfiniti Q50 – detail, headlight close-up

This Infiniti Q50 is not only beautiful to see on the road. There is also a lot of substance! The driving experience is certainly surprising. The first aspect that I want to talk to you about is the steering. On this car is in fact present the Direct Adaptive Steering, a new electronic steering system that’s really interesting. The electronic steering is not only an important starting point for autonomous driving, but also allows you to customize response and stiffness.

Infiniti Q50 – front three-quarter, grey metallic on a country roadInfiniti Q50 – dashboard, steering wheel close-upInfiniti Q50 – dashboard, infotainment screen with drive mode selector

It is also more efficient in terms of the latency of its mechanical counterpart. The absence of a direct connection with the wheels makes the driving more relaxing as the unwanted vibrations and backlashes are not transmitted to the driver, but only what is needed, like the sensations of the chassis and road surfaces. In practice, this system transmits particular sensations, surely there is a difference compared to a direct steering in terms of sensations, but the advantages are many.

Infiniti Q50 – rear three-quarter, grey metallic on a forest road

First of all, there is a change in the steering hardness depending on the driving situation, in traffic and in manoeuvres at low speeds it will be lighter while in situations of sporty driving or at high speed, harder. All this with the same driving mode. To complete a satisfying driving experience there are also an excellent chassis, almost perfect weight distribution and independent 4-wheel suspension with advanced technologies and materials.

Infiniti Q50 – front three-quarter, dark grey on a country roadInfiniti Q50 – rear three-quarter, grey metallic on a country roadInfiniti Q50 – detail, alloy wheel close-up

The engine of the Infiniti Q50 of this review is the 2.2D 170CV, an excellent powertrain. Lots of torque and consumptions are really limited. This Infiniti Q50 makes you want to play! Pressing the accelerator pedal, the chassis, the suspension and the engine will give satisfactions, the only flaw that I have noticed is the gearbox that is perfect for a relaxed ride, but not up to sports ambitions.

Infiniti Q50 – engine bay, clean engine compartment with plastic coverInfiniti Q50 – engine bay, engine cover with logoInfiniti Q50 – detail, gear shifter close-up

In a long journey but also in city traffic all the ProPILOT driving assistances in the Infiniti Q50 are precious. This vehicle features all the latest technologies in terms of autonomous driving and active safety. From adaptive cruise control to the lane maintenance system, via the 360 ​​° camera and the line change assistant. The steering “by wire” coupled with these autonomous driving systems really makes the difference.

Infiniti Q50 – dashboard, digital instrument cluster

Inside the driver is cuddled by the skin with beautiful double stitching. The seats, electronically adjustable, are very comfortable and also have the functionality of heating. The position of the seat and the steering wheel is modified to let the driver enter the car easily. The keyless opening system also allows you to save your settings in order to customize the car for each driver.

Infiniti Q50 – dashboard, facing a forest roadInfiniti Q50 – interior, leather seats and sunroofInfiniti Q50 – dashboard, digital instrument cluster

The two touchscreen screens in the centre of the dashboard allow the control of all the car’s functions, from the climate to the navigator. For ergonomics, the most frequently used functions are made available on the lower screen, the navigator map in the upper one. The BOSE Performance sound system with 16 speakers is of the highest quality.

Infiniti Q50 – dashboard, dual center touchscreen displaysInfiniti Q50 – dashboard, backup camera display on dashboardInfiniti Q50 – detail, bose audio speaker grille

In conclusion, this Infiniti Q50 impresses both in terms of design and performance. The sporty but luxurious lines, combined with very comfortable interiors, affect both the driver and the passers-by. Is really an head-turner. A powerful but fuel-efficient engine combined with an high quality suspensions and chassis system also embellish a truly excellent package. To complete this package, there are all the latest generation driving aids.

Infiniti Q50 – dashboard, leather steering wheel and dual displays

In conclusion, therefore, this Infiniti Q50 MY 2018 is really a good car and the price of about 55k euros makes it even more interesting. On the road or in the city, those who buy Infiniti Q50 will have a satisfying and safe car, for a driving always in full comfort.

Infiniti Q50 – rear three-quarter, grey metallic driving through a forest

 

Testo: Edoardo Mascalchi

Foto: Edoardo Mascalchi, Federico Schipani

 

Bonus images:

 

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