2023 Infiniti Q50: What New Specifications You Can Get
Overview
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 is a reminder that it's tricky to put all the pieces together to create a great sports sedan. For 10 years, Infiniti has been trying with this version of the Q50 but hasn't succeeded. The Q50 has eye-catching styling, but when you open the door, you're met with a dated cabin compared to rivals such as the BMW 3-series and Mercedes-Benz C-class.
In contrast to those other cars, the Q50 has a standard twin-turbo V-6 engine; meanwhile, the others have weaker turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Even the 400 hp Red Sport 400 model's V-6 can't compare in power to what we would like. The good looking but ageing Q50 needs update badly, which is why Genesis G70, Kia Stinger and BMW and Benz are much better recommendations for an entry level luxury sedan that focuses on the driver.
What's New for 2023?
The Infiniti Q50 for 2023 sees few changes, most notably the availability of a Saddle Brown interior option on the entry-level Luxe trim and an illuminated Infiniti grille emblem now included on Sensory trims. All other 2023 Infiniti models will include a complimentary three-year maintenance plan with no mileage restrictions in the United States.
The Luxe is the cheapest Q50, but it still has the same powertrain as its more expensive Sensory trim sister and comes with plenty of features and luxurious appointments. It includes a heated steering wheel and front seats, remote start, and various driver assists. You can upgrade to all-wheel drive for an additional $2000 if you want added security, though we recommend sticking with the standard rear-wheel drive and just getting winter tires for when it gets cold outside.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
All Q50s come with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6, seven-speed automatic transmission, and the option for rear or all-wheel drive. However, there are two engine types to choose from: the standard which makes 300 horsepower or the performance focused Red Sport 400 that puts out 400 horses. Regardless of power output though, shifts are practically unnoticeable--even when the driver uses steering wheel mounted paddle shifters to switch gears middrive.
Although the Q50s we drove had a rough ride, it might improve with the base model's smaller wheels. The steering is light but feels slow and unresponsive. Infiniti offers an optional electronic steering system called Direct Adaptive Steering, which has many different modes; however, none of these modes match up to the feedback or effortless cornering of similar systems on other cars.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The 2023 Q50 doesn't have great fuel economy, regardless of drivetrain configuration or engine output. The thriftiest version is only estimated to get 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. We tested an all-wheel-drive Red Sport 400 on our 75-mph highway route as part of our extensive testing regimen, and it barely beat its EPA rating by 1 with a 27-mpg result. However, turbocharged six-cylinder rivals such as the M340i and G70 are even more efficient at highway speeds. If you want to learn more about the Q50's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Although Infiniti markets itself as a luxury brand, the Q50 interior falls short of that standard. In addition, the design is beginning to feel dated. While front-seat passengers have above-average legroom, back-seat riders will find themselves cramped and uncomfortable.
Although the Q50 comes standard with desirable features like a power-adjustable steering column, memory settings for the driver's seat, and leather upholstery, it falls short in other areas. It doesn't have many of the comforts that its competitors do, and its cargo capacity is below average. It may be comfortable for highway cruising, but it isn't meant for long family trips. With only 13 cubic feet of trunk volume, the Q50 can't hold nearly as much as the 3-series or Stinger.
Is Infiniti Q50 a reliable car?
RepairPal has given the Infiniti Q50 a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, which is above average. The BMW 3 Series, which is arguably its main competitor, only scored a 3.0 out of 5.0. This means Q50 owners will spend less on annual repairs compared to most luxury sedan owners.
Are Infinitis reliable?
Are Infinitis reliable? Generally, yes, but some Infiniti models are more reliable than others. Overall, they tend to be known for having strong powertrains. Infinitis tend to get a good amount of positive feedback from their drivers and can last longer than the average car with the right maintenance.
Just remember to be careful if you decide to modify your new Infinity, especially if you are using similar parts from other years of the same model. For instance, let's take the fog lights. The H7 bulb lumens output is 1500 for the halogen option and some manufacturers offer up to 150-250% more brightness for LED options. However, some Infinitis are compatible with the H7 fog bulb size, while others are not. Incompatible aftermarket parts can do more harm than good.
How many miles are Q50 engines last?
Depending on the car expert you're talking to, you'll typically get an answer that the Infiniti Q50 can last somewhere between 200,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. With that range, if you drove your vehicle about 15,000 miles per year, an Infiniti Q50 could last 13 to 20 years.
