2024 INFINITI Q50

To get the details for the Infiniti Q50, we had to go into the cellar, wipe away a few cobwebs, and blow the dust from some parchment scrolls. We’re kidding, of course, but we do want you to know how relatively old the Q50 is. It debuted for the 2014 model year. If it was a dog, it would a septuagenarian. But it’s a car, which is even worse. Yet Infiniti keeps the Q50 going for another year, although all its other vehicles are now SUVs.

Still, the Q50 has the classic front-engine/rear-drive configuration so beloved by enthusiasts, who can also get behind a gutsy turbocharged V6 — standard issue in the Q50. Most of our owner reviews are also glowing. And there’s no arguing with the decent amount of standard equipment. But we must point out that there are several rivals with more contemporary interior and exterior designs, better technology, greater fuel efficiency, and stronger resale values.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact luxury cars, including the Infiniti Q50.

There are no changes to the Q50 this year. Looking longer-term, we’re wondering if it will even make it to 2025.

Many rivals — like the Acura TLX, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A4, Genesis G70 and Lexus IS — are priced similarly to the Q50 or even perhaps a bit lower. Only the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class are noticeably pricier.

Before buying a new Q50 luxury sedan, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. The aging Q50 has some of the lowest resale values in its class. Recouping more money when you sell a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on your next one.

It’s not just rare to find a twin-turbocharged V6 in the entry-level model of a compact luxury sedan; it’s unheard of outside the Infiniti Q50. When rival cars are offering 255 horsepower (like the BMW 330i), 300 horsepower in the Luxe and Sensory trims is remarkable. And we’ve found that the 295 lb-ft of torque coming in at just 1,500 rpm provides a nice low-end punch. The closest rival in this respect is the Genesis G70, which gains a 300-horsepower turbo-4 this year. The Q50 can sprint from standstill to 60 mph in about five seconds, which is more than respectable as well as quicker than the 330i.

With 400 horsepower, the Red Sport 400 is noticeably more energetic, able to sprint from standstill to 60 mph in a brief 4.5 seconds. This variant also has an adaptive suspension as standard, allowing the driver to dial in more comfort or more poise just by selecting the appropriate mode. Our main complaints are that the steering could use more feel and feedback to improve the driving experience, and the run-flat tires become noisy on the freeway — which shouldn’t really happen in a luxury car.

Fuel Economy

Running to 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving (or 22 mpg with all-wheel drive), the Q50 is not thrifty with gasoline. Especially when put up against something much more efficient yet still energetic like the BMW 330i, rated at 29 mpg combined (27 mpg with all-wheel drive).

Illuminated USB ports (one type-A, one type-C) add a little tech-y sparkle to an otherwise dated cabin. There are no real issues with the accommodations up front, though. Space is ample, the seats are comfortable, and other touch points are nicely padded.

It’s just that the design is showing its age. Take the dual screens in the center console, for example. They’re small, relative to rival offerings, and we’ve found that the infotainment system itself isn’t as user-friendly as some others.

At least leather seating surfaces are standard. The front seats are heated and 8-way power-adjustable. The steering wheel is heated as well. Rear legroom of 35.1 inches is OK for the class. So is trunk space of 13.5 cubic feet.

Since it’s been around for such a long time, we’ve probably all seen the Q50 and formed our own opinions regarding its exterior design. We’re now at that point where we’d describe the looks as wearing the years well. In case anyone was wondering, the Red Sport 400 is available in colors other than red. Slate Gray is exclusive to that variant, for example. It’s also eligible for a Black Opal package that includes exclusive Black Opal Metallic paint, black badges, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler.

Engines
Most rivals have turbocharged 4-cylinder engines for their entry-level models. This is the Q50’s specialty, starting with a 300-horsepower turbocharged V6. Then Infiniti tops it off with a 400-horsepower unit. Good luck finding something German with the same kind of muscle for similar money.

Wireless Apple CarPlay
Apple iPhone users can integrate their devices into the 2024 Q50’s infotainment system without having to plug them in. This is a standard feature. Android users are not ignored completely, but they’re going to need a cable.

All-wheel drive
Into each driver’s life a little snow must fall. Unless they never leave the lowlands of Arizona or Southern California or Florida. Even in those especially sunny places, we know that all-wheel drive can still be a great asset — if only to help apply engine power to the road in an efficient manner. This is optional in every version of the 2024 Q50 luxury sedan.

Intelligent Cruise Control
Often referred to as adaptive cruise control, it maintains a safe distance to the vehicle in front, then resumes the preset speed when conditions allow. The system here works at all speeds and is standard equipment.

Power-adjustable steering column
It raises automatically to make exits easier. There are memory settings that incorporate this, the driver’s seat, and the side mirrors. It’s standard, which is unusual.

Bose audio system
Third-party audio systems tend to be optional upgrades, but Infiniti puts this in every 2024 Q50. It’s a 16-speaker setup with “simulated’ surround sound. It’s not the best premium audio system in the segment, but it’s better than many other standard setups.

Luxe and Sensory versions of the 2024 Q50 compact luxury sedan have a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 developing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That’s a considerable amount of muscle for what is the introductory engine. Red Sport 400 models also deploy a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. This one cooks up 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. With either engine, a 7-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties. Rear-wheel drive is standard throughout, and all-wheel drive is optional.

4-Year/60,000-Mile Warranty

Infiniti has warranties that are a little better than typical, although Genesis is still the class best. New-vehicle coverage on a 2024 Q50 is four years or 60,000 miles, which includes roadside assistance with unlimited miles. The powertrain is protected for six years or 70,000 miles. There’s also complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years, regardless of mileage.

Safety Ratings

The Q50 hasn’t been tested fully by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Nor is there a rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.