2017 Infiniti Q50 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What's New for 2017
The Q50 is now available in a 2.0T Sport trim and a 2.0T Sport All Wheel Drive (AWD) trim. A new Design package is available for V-6 engine models that offers maple wood and dark chrome interior trim, quilted leather seats, and black headliners.
Top Ten Reasons to Buy a 2017 Infiniti Q50 - The Pros
1. Wide Variety in Models and Trim
There are several varieties in the available models of the Q50, so there is a trim available for nearly every taste. There are four engine styles, and each one is paired with unique trims or packages:
- 2.0T - Base, Premium, and Sport
- 3.0T - Premium, Signature, and Sport
- Red Sport 400
- Hybrid Premium
2. Excellent Performance and Power
Drivers seeking a car that provides excellent performance will enjoy driving the 2017 Infinity Q50. The smallest engine is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder which offers an impressive 208 horsepower. The 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine provides 300 horsepower. For the most power, the Red Sport edition offers an amazing 400 horsepower. The engines are all paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
3. Hybrid Combines Power and Efficiency
The Q50 Hybrid gives drivers the best of both worlds, providing power and efficiency. Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 that is paired with an electric motor, the Q50 Hybrid gets 360 horsepower, and it has a fuel efficiency rating of 27/32 miles per gallon (city/highway).
4. All Wheel Drive Availability
Every model of the 2017 Q50 is available with an all wheel drive (AWD) option. The AWD option provides a smooth and safe ride by constantly adapting to conditions with up to 50 percent of power transferring to the front wheels for added traction and stability.
5. Well-appointed Interior Stylings
The base 2.0T model is impressively outfitted to ensure comfort and includes leatherette seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat that includes lumbar adjustment. However, many of the models have included sought-after comfort amenities to add to the luxury of the Q50, including:
- Heated leather seats
- Entry/Exit assist for both the driver's seat and steering wheel
- Memory settings for both front seats
- Aluminum and wood trim and accents
6. Bose Sound System
On the Premium and higher trims, a 16-speaker Bose sound system is equipped, giving drivers an amazing listening experience. The audio system also includes two USB ports for connecting a device or flash drive, simulated surround, and driver's audio stage.
7. Infinity InTouch Infotainment Center
Featuring a dual-touchscreen, the Infinity InTouch has an 8-inch top screen and 7-inch lower screen that communicates information clearly and is functional and efficient. The infotainment center also allows customization options for audio, climate control, displays, and navigation. It is equipped with Bluetooth technology for your smartphone and audio and has voice-activated controls, for added convenience and safety.
8. Direct Adaptive Steering
The 2017 Infinity Q50 Sport models are equipped with Direct Adaptive Steering which digitally transmits steering input. This "steer by wire" method offers excellent response and handling. Drivers can also customize steering modes to standard, sport, and sport-plus. Once in those modes, the driver can customize steering responsiveness.
9. Modern Safety Equipment
The 2017 Infinity Q50 is not only built to help protect you in the event of a collision, but also includes features to help you avoid one. Standard features include a suite of airbags, rear-view camera, LED daytime running lights, and electric brake force disbursement. Additional sought-after safety amenities are optional, and include:
- Backup collision intervention
- Blind spot warning and intervention
- Predictive forward collision and emergency braking
- Lane departure warning and active lane control
10. Sophisticated and Stylish Exterior
The 2017 Infinity Q50 has performance, comfort, and technology, but it also looks fantastic. The exterior features a double-arch grille and modern LED headlights. The curved sheetmetal frame is sleek and not only does it look great, but it has a low drag coefficient.
Reasons you may not want to buy a 2017 Infiniti Q50 - The Cons
1. No Manual Transmission Option
While the Q50 offers a responsive seven-speed automatic transmission, there isn't a manual transmission option. Many drivers enjoy the feel of a manual, and this absence could be a downside.
2. Average Efficiency in Non-Hybrid Models
For drivers seeking optimum fuel efficiency, the Q50 Hybrid version may be the best option. The other models only have average fuel efficiency with the 2.0T engine having a rating of 23/31 miles per gallon (mpg) and the Red Sport getting 20/26 mpg.
3. Tight Rear Seats
While the trunk of the Q50 is spacious, the rear seats may be a bit tight for some passengers. It's wide enough for three adults to sit, but the roof is lower than some competitors. Taller passengers in the backseat may find their head bumping the roof.
How It Stacks Up to Competition
The luxury sports sedan class is very competitive, but the 2017 Infinity Q50 holds its own against the Lexus ES, Acura TLX, and Buick LaCrosse. Price-wise, it offers more overall features than many of the other cars in the class and in most cases costs the same or less. The powerful turbo V6 engine option provides better performance than many of its competitors.
Conclusion
With the 2017 Infinity Q50, drivers do not need to compromise what they want in a luxury vehicle. The modern technology, high performing engine, and comfortable, gorgeous interior are all combined in one great car that is also safe and fun to drive.
