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2014 Infiniti Q50 Debut

The same, but different. Infiniti's redesigned sports sedan looks to shake up the segment.

2014 Infiniti Q50 Research Click to hide

By Trevor Dorchies | January 12, 2013

What's New

While it's taking the place of the out-going G37 in name alone, the 2014 Infiniti Q50 could be considered an all-new vehicle. A new 3.5-liter V-6 hybrid drivetrain mated to a refined seven-speed automatic transmission will be available once the Q50 hits the market, in addition to a 328-horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 engine. Infiniti's new InTouch communications system sits in the center console, and controls everything you need inside the vehicle through two separate screens. Through this system, you can control features like hands-free phone, moving map navigation, and entertainment applications. Exterior styling is also new and takes cues from the Essence concept first shown off at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, with swooping lines and a healthy dose of LED lights. However, the Q50 also retains a recognizable profile, with the long-hood and short-trunk that was its predecessor's hallmark.

Who It's For

Infiniti has made it no secret that it's coming for the "new generation of young, premium customers" with the Q50. Competition for this highly-coveted demographic won't come easy though as the 2014 Infiniti Q50 will have to beat out segment heavyweights like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and the Cadillac ATS. All of these aforementioned models, including the 2014 Infiniti Q50, blend performance with comfort, and Infiniti is hoping to really pour both of those on thick with its entrant. A 3.7-liter V-6 rated at 328-horsepower will try its hardest to reel in the young and fast crowd; for those looking for more speed and fuel economy, Infiniti is also rolling out a new 3.5-liter V-6 engine rated at 360 horsepower with some help from a 50 kW electric motor. IT's the same powertrain that's in the M35 Hybrid, a car that seems purposely designed to obliterate the hybrids-are-slow stereotype.

Key Features

The rear-wheel drive Infiniti G series has been around since the 2003 model year, and the Q50 promises to be more of the same but different (in a better way) all at the same time. Here are some important features:

Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid drivetrain in the form of a 3.5-liter V-6 which is rated at 302 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque. A 50 kW electric motor kicks in an additional 67 hp raising the hybrid's total output to 360 hp.
Refined seven-speed automatic transmission
Optional steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters
Infiniti's InTouch communication system with two separate screens

What We Think

If it's anything like the model it's replacing, the 2014 Infiniti Q50 will be a real player in a segment filled with German competition. We've said for a while now that the G37 needed to be revitalized and the Q50 appears to be that shot in the arm. The 2014 Infiniti Q50 should be sporty, very fun to drive, and refined all at the same time. All of which are necessary to still be competitive and relevant in the luxury sedan segment. If the Q50's performance can cash the check written by its looks, then the luxury sedan segment just got a whole light tighter. We’re anxious to drive the 2014 Infiniti Q50 and once we do, we'll let you know where it stands so stay tuned.

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