Nissan Infiniti Q50 2018: A Detailed Review

Hey guys, let's talk about the 2018 Nissan Infiniti Q50! If you're in the market for a luxury sedan that doesn't skimp on performance, style, or tech, this ride deserves a serious look. The Q50 has always been Infiniti's contender in the competitive sports sedan segment, and the 2018 model year really solidified its position. We're going to break down what makes this car tick, from its powertrain options and driving dynamics to its interior comfort and infotainment system. Whether you're a seasoned car buff or just starting your search, we've got you covered. So, buckle up and let's explore the nuances of the 2018 Q50. We'll be looking at the different trims, the standout features, and what potential owners can expect. The goal here is to give you a comprehensive overview, ensuring you have all the info you need to decide if this Infiniti is the right fit for your garage. We know that choosing a new car can be overwhelming, with so many options out there. That's why we're digging deep into the specifics of the 2018 Q50. From the initial design aesthetics to the nitty-gritty performance metrics, nothing is off the table. Get ready for an in-depth review that highlights the strengths and potential weaknesses of this stylish Japanese luxury sedan.

Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics: Feel the Road

When we talk about the 2018 Nissan Infiniti Q50, the first thing that often comes up is its performance. And rightly so! This car is built for drivers who enjoy the sensation of being in control. Infiniti offered a couple of potent engine choices for the 2018 model year, giving buyers a chance to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The base engine was a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6, churning out a healthy 300 horsepower. This mill is smooth, responsive, and provides plenty of grunt for everyday driving and spirited bursts of acceleration. For those craving even more power, there was the Q50 Red Sport 400, which, as the name suggests, boosted that V6 to an exhilarating 400 horsepower. This is where the Q50 truly shows its sports sedan DNA, offering performance figures that rival some of the best in its class. The power delivery is linear and the twin turbos spool up quickly, minimizing lag and keeping you engaged. The transmission of choice for most models was a 7-speed automatic, which, while smooth, offered an optional manual shift mode for those who like to have a bit more say in gear selection. Available all-wheel drive (AWD) was a popular option, especially for those living in areas with inclement weather, providing added traction and confidence. But what about the handling? The Q50 features a sophisticated independent multi-link rear suspension and a double-wishbone front suspension, designed to provide a balance between a comfortable ride and sharp handling. The Direct Adaptive Steering was also a key feature, offering various modes to adjust steering feel and responsiveness. While some enthusiasts debated its initial feel, it was a technological leap forward, allowing for a highly customizable steering experience. The ride quality is generally composed, absorbing road imperfections well without feeling floaty. On winding roads, the Q50 remains planted, with minimal body roll, making it a joy to drive. Braking is also strong and confidence-inspiring, thanks to the standard four-wheel disc brakes. Overall, the 2018 Q50 delivers a driving experience that is both engaging and refined, suitable for daily commuting and weekend adventures alike. The combination of powerful engines, responsive handling, and available AWD makes it a compelling choice for performance-oriented luxury sedan buyers.

Interior Design and Comfort: A Luxurious Haven

Step inside the 2018 Nissan Infiniti Q50, and you'll find an interior that balances luxury with a driver-focused cockpit. Infiniti has always aimed to provide a premium experience, and the Q50 doesn't disappoint. The cabin is wrapped in high-quality materials, with soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery (on most trims), and elegant trim accents that create a sophisticated atmosphere. The design is modern yet understated, avoiding overly flashy elements in favor of a clean and functional layout. Comfort is a top priority, with generously padded and supportive front seats that are perfect for long journeys. Heated front seats were standard on most models, and ventilated seats were available on higher trims, adding an extra layer of comfort during warmer months. The driver's seat typically offers ample adjustments, including lumbar support, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. Rear-seat passengers will find decent legroom and headroom for the class, making the Q50 a comfortable option for families or for carrying adult passengers. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures that both the driver and front passenger can maintain their preferred temperature, and rear climate vents help keep everyone comfortable. Storage solutions are practical, with a decent-sized glove box, door pockets, and a center console bin. The trunk offers a respectable amount of cargo space, suitable for luggage or groceries, and the 60/40-split folding rear seats enhance versatility when you need to transport larger items. Noise insulation is commendable, keeping road and wind noise to a minimum, which contributes significantly to the overall sense of refinement and luxury. The cabin feels quiet and serene, allowing for easy conversation or enjoyment of your favorite music. Attention to detail is evident throughout, from the stitching on the seats to the precise feel of the buttons and switches. The overall impression is one of solid craftsmanship and thoughtful design, aiming to provide a relaxing and upscale environment for all occupants. It's a place where you can truly unwind and enjoy the drive, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The Q50's interior is a testament to Infiniti's commitment to delivering a premium experience without unnecessary extravagance.

Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected and Entertained

In today's connected world, a car's technology suite is just as important as its engine, and the 2018 Nissan Infiniti Q50 is equipped to keep you informed and entertained. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is Infiniti's InTouch dual-display system. This setup features two touchscreens – an upper 8-inch screen for navigation and vehicle settings, and a lower 7-inch screen for audio and other functions. While the concept was innovative, some users found the interface a bit dated compared to newer systems, but it's generally intuitive and functional. Navigation was typically standard on higher trims or available as an option, providing clear directions and traffic updates. For your audio pleasure, the Q50 offers a standard six-speaker audio system, which is decent for everyday listening. However, audiophiles will appreciate the optional Bose Performance Series audio system, featuring 16 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin for an immersive sound experience. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming is standard across the lineup. USB and auxiliary input jacks are also provided for connecting your devices. SiriusXM Satellite Radio was available, offering a wide range of channels. Voice recognition allows you to control various functions, such as navigation and audio, without taking your hands off the wheel, which is a great safety feature. Other available tech features included keyless entry and ignition, push-button start, and remote engine start. Higher trims might also offer HD Radio. While it might not have all the latest bells and whistles found in some competitors' 2018 offerings, the Q50's technology suite is comprehensive and user-friendly. It provides the essential features for connectivity, entertainment, and navigation, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable driving experience. The dual-screen setup, while requiring some getting used to, offers a good split of information and controls. It's a system that aims to be both functional and elegant, fitting well within the Q50's premium cabin. For those who prioritize a solid tech foundation without the overwhelming complexity of some modern systems, the 2018 Q50 is a strong contender.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road

When considering any vehicle, especially a luxury sedan like the 2018 Nissan Infiniti Q50, safety is paramount. Infiniti equipped the 2018 Q50 with a robust suite of safety features designed to protect occupants and assist the driver. Standard safety equipment across all trims included six airbags (front, front-side, and full-length side curtain), anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and stability control. A rearview camera was also standard, making parking and reversing maneuvers significantly safer and easier. Beyond the basics, the Q50 offered a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), often bundled into optional packages or standard on higher trims. These included forward emergency braking, which can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a frontal collision. Predictive forward collision warning was another standout feature, monitoring the vehicle two cars ahead and warning the driver of a potential collision. Blind-spot warning and blind-spot intervention systems helped alert drivers to vehicles in their blind spots and could even provide steering input to guide the car back into its lane. Lane departure warning and lane departure prevention systems worked similarly, keeping the car within its designated lane. Intelligent cruise control could automatically adjust the vehicle's speed to maintain a set following distance from the car ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways. Around View Monitor was also available, utilizing multiple cameras to provide a 360-degree bird's-eye view of the car's surroundings, invaluable for parking in tight spaces. These advanced safety features significantly enhance the driver's awareness and ability to react to potential hazards. The Q50's structure was also designed with safety in mind, utilizing high-strength steel in key areas to absorb and dissipate crash energy. While specific crash test ratings can vary, the Q50 generally performed well in safety evaluations for its class. Infiniti's commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive list of active and passive safety technologies available, providing drivers with confidence and peace of mind on every journey. These systems work together to create a safer driving environment for everyone.

Trims and Value Proposition: Finding Your Perfect Q50

The 2018 Nissan Infiniti Q50 was offered in several trim levels, each providing a different mix of features and performance, allowing buyers to choose the one that best suits their needs and budget. The lineup typically started with the Q50 3.0t LUXE (or similar naming convention depending on the market), which came standard with the 300-horsepower V6 engine, leatherette seating, power-adjustable front seats, and the dual-touchscreen infotainment system. Moving up, you might find trims like the Q50 3.0t SPORT, which added sportier exterior and interior styling cues, a sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, and often more premium interior materials like genuine leather. This trim was aimed at buyers who wanted a more dynamic look and feel to match the car's performance. At the top of the performance ladder was the Q50 Red Sport 400. This was the flagship model, boasting the potent 400-horsepower version of the twin-turbo V6, along with unique styling elements, upgraded brakes, performance-oriented suspension tuning, and the most luxurious interior appointments. For those prioritizing all-weather capability, all-wheel drive (AWD) was typically an option on most trims, often denoted by a 'Q50 AWD' designation. When considering the value proposition, the 2018 Q50 offered a compelling package, especially when compared to some of its German rivals. You often got more standard features or more powerful engines for a similar or lower price point. The availability of the powerful 3.0t V6 engine as standard on most models provided excellent performance from the base level. The optional advanced safety features, while sometimes costly, were competitive with what other manufacturers offered. The interior quality and comfort were on par with segment leaders, providing a truly luxurious experience. The Q50 was also known for its reliability, often performing well in long-term dependability studies, which can translate to lower ownership costs over time. For buyers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology without necessarily paying the absolute highest premium, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 presented a very strong case. Its value lies in its ability to deliver a premium and sporty driving experience at a competitive price point, often with a focus on accessible power and refined comfort. Whether you choose the well-equipped LUXE, the sportier SPORT, or the powerhouse Red Sport 400, the 2018 Q50 offers a lot of car for your money.

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Q50 Right for You?

So, guys, after diving deep into the 2018 Nissan Infiniti Q50, what's the final verdict? This car is a seriously compelling option in the luxury sports sedan market. It offers a fantastic blend of performance, thanks to its potent twin-turbo V6 engines, especially the 400-hp unit in the Red Sport. The driving dynamics are engaging, with a chassis that balances comfort and sportiness, further enhanced by available AWD and advanced steering technology. Inside, you're treated to a well-crafted, comfortable, and luxurious cabin that provides a serene environment for both short commutes and long road trips. The technology, while perhaps not the absolute latest in every aspect, is functional, user-friendly, and includes essential connectivity and entertainment features. Crucially, the 2018 Q50 is packed with advanced safety features, offering peace of mind and an extra layer of protection. When you factor in its competitive pricing and often strong reliability ratings, the value proposition becomes even more attractive. It competes admirably with established players in the segment, offering a unique blend of Japanese luxury and performance. If you're looking for a sedan that doesn't compromise on power, offers a refined driving experience, and surrounds you with comfort and safety, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 is absolutely worth considering. It's a car that delivers on its promise of sporty luxury and provides a rewarding ownership experience. Whether you prioritize exhilarating acceleration, sophisticated styling, or a comfortable daily driver, the Q50 likely has a configuration that will tick your boxes. It's a testament to Infiniti's ability to create a well-rounded luxury vehicle that punches above its weight. So, go ahead, take one for a spin – you might just find your next favorite ride!