This new saloon is the first all new model to adopt the Infiniti’s Q badge. The new Infiniti Q50, set to launch in 2014 is the companies hope to steer into a new course. So, ss the Q5 just a new name for the same old horse?
2014 Infiniti Q50
The Q5 has some stiff competition from the likes of the BMW 3 series, which means it has a lot to live up to. Infiniti have put plans in place to expand and go global which has resulted in 7 new models soon to be released. The believed reasoning behind the Q was the lack of remaining letters in the alphabet. Other companies such as Mercedes and BMW had already taken a large proportion. Rather than use the letters that were left over they decided to use an already trademarked letter by the company which was the letter Q. All the cars will begin with the letter Q followed by a series of numbers. This is due to take place for all the 2014 models.
The Q50 is very similar looking to its predecessor the G37 with a more corporate look and feel. It definitely has a distinguished and sleek look which is sure to turn some heads. One major benefit to the Q50 is the amount of new technology it boats. The most notable is its new Direct Adaptive Steering which is the first steer by wire system. The centre console comes with two touch screens which are fully customisable and can control the cars settings and entertainment features.
The Q5 comes with a choice of two engines the 3.7L V6 and the 3.5L V6 hybrid version. The 3.7L produces an impressive 328 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid is paired up with a 67 hp electric motor which produces an outstanding combined output of 360 hp, the only downside is that does add additional weight to the vehicle. Despite the weight increase the hybrid is still the more efficient out of the two engines.
As far as performance goes the 3.7L is very similar to the G37 which is not surprising when the engine output has not been changed. The hybrid version has a slight delay due to the electric motor when first starting to accelerate. Once set off the hybrid is defiantly the more powerful of the two.
Not only is this luxury car packed with features, it also comes with all the latest safety technology. The main addition is the Active Lane Control which utilises cameras from around the car to keep Q5 in its lane while driving.
With its new technology, impressive hybrid option and stunning looks the Q5 is destined for success unless it gets lost in the Infiniti’s new confusing naming system.
