Infiniti Q50 Review

The D-class luxury sedan market has always been a battleground for brand technology and comfort. Consumers value both the vehicle's prestige and its practicality for everyday use. The 2017 Infiniti Q50 2.0T GT Premium, as a mid-to-high configuration model in this segment, has its core selling points in the additional features over the base GT version while retaining the driving pleasure of a rear-wheel-drive platform. The purpose of this test is to see whether the additional investment of nearly RM34,000 can translate into a more attractive product.

At first glance, the exterior design of the Q50 2.0T GT Premium gives an impression of luxury without losing its sporty vibe. The front features the family-style double-arch grille adorned with chrome accents for a high level of recognition; the sharply designed LED headlights have clear internal light strip structures, and their automatic activation function can switch on timely in tunnels or at dusk. The side profile has smooth lines, with the waistline extending from the hood to the rear, making the side design more dynamic. The 18-inch wheels are more striking and prominent compared to the GT version's 17-inch wheels, with tire specifications of 225/50R18, offering a fuller visual effect. At the rear, the tail lights use LED light sources, echoing the design of the front lights, while the chrome decorative strip under the rear bumper enhances its refined look, creating an overall simple yet harmonious appearance.

Stepping inside, the materials and layout of the interior reflect the standards of a luxury brand. The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials, and the armrest and inner door panels are covered in leather, providing a comfortable tactile experience. The center console features a dual-screen setup, with the upper screen displaying navigation and multimedia information and the lower screen controlling air conditioning and vehicle settings. The operating logic is clear, making it easy to get familiar with. In terms of features, the GT Premium version has some particularly standout highlights: the front seats are 10-way power-adjustable with memory function, while the passenger seat is 8-way power-adjustable; the seat cushioning is thick and provides good support. The dual-zone automatic air conditioning meets the varying temperature needs of the driver and front passenger, with independent air vents for the rear passengers as well. Keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, and power-folding mirrors are all standard, enhancing everyday convenience. For safety, it is equipped with six airbags, lane-keeping assist, and a parking system with front and rear radar and cameras, offering ample safety confidence for driving.

In terms of space, the Q50's dimensions are 4790mm×1820mm×1455mm, with a wheelbase of 2850mm, which is at a mainstream level among D-segment cars. After adjusting the front seats to a suitable seating position, there is about a fist's worth of headroom, so it doesn’t feel cramped. The rear legroom exceeds two fists, and the headroom is about one fist, meaning even a passenger who is 180cm tall won’t feel tight. For storage, the trunk has a capacity of 500 liters, capable of holding two 28-inch suitcases and some smaller items. The rear seats support folding down, which can accommodate longer items when necessary. Door panel storage compartments and the center armrest box are also practical, offering adequate space for everyday carry items.

Starting the engine, the 2.0T turbocharged engine provides a very linear power output. This engine delivers a maximum horsepower of 214PS, and its peak torque is available at just 1250rpm. The throttle response is quick at takeoff, offering decent power output with just a light press. The acceleration process is smooth, and when switched to Sport mode, the transmission's shift logic becomes more aggressive, with quicker downshifts. When overtaking and pressing the gas pedal harder, the power delivery keeps up promptly. It has an official 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.2 seconds, which matches the real-world experience. The gearbox is of the AT type, offering smooth gear changes that make daily driving feel almost free of any jarring shifts.

In terms of handling, the Q50 adopts a front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout, combining a front double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension. The tuning leans towards sporty while also taking comfort into account. The steering wheel offers precise handling with minimal slack, and body roll is well-controlled during cornering, providing enough confidence for the driver. On bumpy roads, the suspension filters out most of the minor vibrations, retaining some road feel without causing excessive discomfort. The vehicle maintains excellent stability at high speeds without feeling light. Regarding fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 10.5L/100km. In actual tests, fuel consumption is approximately 12L under urban conditions and around 8.5L on highways, which aligns with the performance level of a 2.0T engine.

The details of driving comfort are well-executed. Noise control inside the cabin is commendable; wind and tire noise at high speeds remain within an acceptable range. Engine noise becomes noticeably audible inside the cabin only at high revs. The seats offer good support and wrapping, ensuring long drives remain comfortable without causing fatigue. The presence of rear air conditioning vents and power outlets enhances the comfort for rear passengers.

In summary, the core advantages of the 2017 Q50 2.0T GT Premium lie in its upgraded configuration and rear-wheel-drive handling experience. Compared to models in the same class, its dual-screen system, 18-inch wheels, and abundant safety features provide considerable competitiveness at the same price point. Compared with the GT version from the same lineup, the additional features significantly enhance the convenience and luxury of daily use. This car is suitable for consumers who value the prestige of a luxury brand while still seeking some driving pleasure, such as 30- to 40-year-old family users. It can meet the needs of daily commuting and weekend outings, balancing practicality and driving experience.

Overall, the Q50 2.0T GT Premium is a well-balanced luxury mid-size car. Its configuration, space, and performance meet expectations, and the additional budget buys a more comfortable user experience, making it worth considering.