2014 Infiniti Q50S AWD - TestdriveNow.com Video Review

2014 Infiniti Q50S AWD – Video Review:

Sonar, radar and camera-based assistive features are designed to help drivers and keep them safe but I’ve never seen quite the array like Infiniti has unleashed here in their all-new G replacement, the 2014 Q50. This is a critical launch for Nissan’s luxury division because the G Line was, by far, their bread and butter car. All of Infiniti’s models underwent name changes recently and in the case of the G37 the result is this; the Q50. It’s available as a sedan only as the Q60 Coupe and Convertible live on with the previous generation’s underpinnings. Choices consist mainly of rear or all-wheel drive layouts, sportier S models like this one and a gas-electric hybrid. From there, a number of loaded packages can be added to up the level of comfort, convenience and safety. I mention this up front because my tester has nearly all of them and 2 in particular that impact this car immensely. First and foremost is the $3,100 Deluxe Touring Package comprising the headline grabbing Direct Adaptive Steering also known as steer by wire – as in the mechanicals between the steering wheel and the wheels themselves are only there for backup purposes. This industry first is a purely electronic control system and there are key advantages, such as improved fuel economy and the ability to tailor the steering ratio and effort in a multitude of ways. Give credit to Infiniti for being first to bring it to market but until they fine-tune its calibration I’d make sure to leave it off the options menu. The other is the $3,200 Technology Package where within lies the most comprehensive set of electronic safety measures I’ve ever seen on one car. I’d say that it took less than about 30 seconds before I realized that something wasn’t quite right with this car. I mean why was the steering wheel twitching randomly? And I guess I don’t need to brake anymore because the Q50 just decides to stop on its own. And sometimes when you go to accelerate the car says nope; there’s another car too close to the front bumper. It’s all very strange and unlike anything I’ve ever driven before and at the heart of it is this steer by wire system which is as artificial feeling as you can imagine. Now, am I driving this car or is it driving me? Press this button on the steering wheel and it’s all systems go, though you can individualize some features within the computer system i.e. turn them off. Now I’m all for some of these advancements, primarily blind spot warning, but Infiniti has invited so many in all at once – like Distance Control Assist, Active Lane Control, Forward Emergency Braking, and on and on, that I truly felt like I was behind the wheel of an autonomous car. So to evaluate this exact Q50 S AWD is difficult – because I can sense that underneath it all is a willing chassis with a compliant ride, a lively 328-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and a 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching that’s up to the S designation. Gas mileage has also improved by 2 mpg, now rated at 19mpg city/27mpg highway on premium. Sport models also add a more athletically tuned suspension, more powerful brakes, 19” wheels fitted with Dunlop max performance tires, a unique fascia and sport seats with power adjustable side bolstering. Though the cabin design is aesthetically underwhelming, it’s maintained its roomy midsize dimensions and is comfortable with solid ergonomics. This dual screen infotainment system is new and sparkles with all kinds of innovative ways to access and customize all of the information we’ve come to expect on demand – and voice commands work well, including for the stellar sounding Studio on Wheels by Bose 14-speaker sound system. A base Q50 starts at $38,055 while this top of the line Q50 S AWD begins at $46,355 and ends up here, with almost every option, at $54,685. Infiniti needs to make the adaptive steering a stand-alone option so those who wish to get all of the other package goodies like the around view monitor, can do so without it. My advice; test-drive Q50’s with both systems and see if steer-by-wire is right for you. For me, it’s a deal breaker.

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