2022 INFINITI Q50

Power isn’t everything. Those Red Sport Q50s are powered by a 400hp twin-turbocharged V6, which is an amped-up version of the 300hp gas engine found in more affordable trims. Both powerplants are yoked to a seven-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel drive is a $2,000 option. However, while an extra hundred horses might sound appealing on paper, it’s not really necessary in practice. Plus, the Red Sport’s 19-inch wheels spoil what’s otherwise a decent standard of ride comfort, even if you splash out on optional adaptive dampers. Once again, smaller wheels deliver bigger comfort.

Well-equipped for battle. Specification upgrades have injected a welcome dose of luxury into every Q50, which its rivals simply can’t match at this price. Settle into the heated and power-adjustable leather driver’s seat in base Luxe models, and you’re bathed in light from a moonroof. A dual-screen infotainment system dominates the dash, though you’ll have to specify mid-range Sensory trim to receive navigation and brown leather.

Safety is another area where the Q50 performs well. Admittedly, there's no official crash test data to draw from, but an extensive array of standard safety equipment includes blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and a surround-view camera system. We’re also big fans of the adaptive cruise control, which – unlike other manufacturers’ systems – won’t slam on the brakes if a semi-truck half a mile in front of you changes lane.

Comfortable for four, cozy for five. Unless a sedan is front-wheel-drive only, a central transmission tunnel inevitably eats into rear space. That’s the case in the RWD-as-standard Q50, whose relatively narrow central rear seat is best treated as an occasional-use item. Far better to drop down the central armrest and turn this into a comfortable space for two. Rear passengers might not have the heating elements or power adjustment enjoyed by front-seat occupants, but there’s plenty of outboard legroom plus decent views through well-sized side windows.

The trunk is something of an oddity, with those widescreen taillights resulting in a high and awkwardly-shaped aperture. Space is limited as well, at 13.2 cu ft. This is on par with the BMW 3-Series, but the Jaguar XF offers far more space, with easier access to boot.

Final thoughts. By adding lots of creature comforts and pushing up the price, INFINITI has made the Q50 more competitive against its long-established sedan rivals. This is a quietly handsome vehicle both inside and out, though the cabin betrays its 2014 heritage more than the exterior. We remain disappointed with the cargo capacity, and it’s hard to recommend the 400hp engine variant considering its detrimental effect on ride quality.

Even so, if you’re keen not to run with the Germanic herd, the Q50 is a pleasant car to own. It’s decent to drive, too, with a slick transmission and good ride quality, even though the handling lacks sharpness and there’s more wallow in the corners than keen drivers would appreciate. Fuel economy isn’t impressive, but safety and standard equipment are both positives, and there’s no reason to spend more than $45,000 for a Luxe trim with all-wheel-drive selected from the options list. Well-built and with a reputation for above-average reliability, the Q50 won’t steal any hearts or turn any heads, but it’ll be a dependable and comfortable traveling companion for many years to come.

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