2017 Infiniti Q50 Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

If looks were everything, the Infiniti Q50 would be a serious contender among small luxury sedans that include the Audi A4, BMW 3 series, and Mercedes-Benz C-class. Yet, the Q50's attractively curvaceous exterior hints at a level of sportiness that isn’t there when you start pushing its limits. Step inside and you’re greeted by a dated dashboard and quirky two-screen infotainment system. At least the speed provided by the optional twin-turbocharged V-6 gives the Q50 plenty of get up and go.

What's New for 2017?

Infiniti hasn’t made any major changes to the 2017 Q50, though detail improvements make it a better value. A Sport trim package is added to the 2.0t and 2.0t AWD models that come with a 208-hp turbo four-cylinder. New standard safety features include rain-sensing wipers and auto-dimming rearview mirror. A more powerful 16-speaker Bose stereo is also now optional.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

• Base: $34,945
• Premium: $39,395
• Signature Edition: $39,695
• Sport: $43,295
• Red Sport: $51,695
• Hybrid: $48,795

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Infiniti Q50 doesn’t skimp at providing engine choices, though one stands out as a favorite. The entry-level powerplant is a 208-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and to be honest, it lacks the verve we expect from a sedan at this price point. A better bet is the 300-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 or, if you’re feeling racy and don’t mind paying more, the Red Sport is fitted with a 400-hp variant of this same engine. That model is even stronger, getting to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, compared to the standard V-6's 5.0. There is also a gas-electric hybrid that combines an electric motor with a 3.5-liter V-6 to develop a total of 360 horsepower. Each engine is paired with a seven-speed automatic and is available in rear- or all-wheel drive. We’re fans of the turbo V-6 and the near seamless operation of the transmission. Yet the Q50 looks sportier than it is, the handling becomes vague when you’re driving with gusto, and the ride gets unsettled unless you’re on pool-table-smooth pavement.

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

There’s no getting around the fact that the dashboard design of the Q50 is years behind what you find in rival luxury sedans. But even the base model is fairly well equipped, with standard features that include power seats, dual-zone climate control, and keyless entry with push-button start. Moving up through the trim levels adds such items as heated seats, leather upholstery, and paddle shifters for the automatic transmission. While there is plenty of room for anyone seated in either the front or back seat, the Q50 has a notable lack of in-cabin storage space. And the trunk measures in at a class-average 13.2 cubic feet. Overall, when it comes to comparing the Q50's cabin to luxury-badged competitors, it feels much more mainstream and lacking in fine details.

Infotainment and Connectivity

One of the more frustrating aspects of the Q50 is the dual-screen setup of the infotainment system. The 8.0-inch upper screen is controlled by a small joystick located on the center console and displays navigation commands, or the rearview camera when in reverse. The lower 7.0-inch screen is touch-sensitive and is where you go to adjust audio and temperature settings. It’s awkward jumping between the two screens and less intuitive than a single-screen arrangement. Standard tech includes Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a six-speaker stereo with satellite radio. Higher trims add navigation and upgrade to a 16-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Infiniti Q50‘s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.