Comeback 50

What we like:

Fluid dynamic styling. Plush leather interior trim and spacious rear seats. Comfortable ride worthy of an executive sedan.

What we dislike:

Steering isn’t quite as quick or accurate as we’d expect of a dynamic sports sedan.

Unlike previous models from the brand, the Q50 receives a gift from Mercedes-Benz. In the form of a four cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged heart which it shares with the C250. The robust engine gives out a healthy 208bhp with 350Nm of torque from just 1,250rpm. And it despatches with the century sprint in just 7.2 seconds.

Off line the line the car feels quick especially with torque coming in at just 1,250rpm. Dynamically this is the best we’ve ever sampled from Infiniti. It feels very willing to change direction in quick succession but the steering still feels less talkative than in the C-Class. Even in Sport mode, the steering gets heavier but accuracy remains the same.

With the entire drivetrain transplanted from the C250, the Q50 enjoys the same seamlessly smooth gear changes that are imperceptible. However, unlike the Mercedes-Benz, the Infiniti is missing paddle shifters. But considering the good work the gearbox is doing, those won’t be missed unless a masochistic enthusiast is at the wheel.

Ride quality is similar to what we experienced previously in the Q70 and feels plush and pliant even when cruising at highway speeds. Sound insulation could be improved but wasn’t intrusive.

The Q50 seems to be a perfect marriage of German engineering, European interior and Japanese reliability underneath. And with its long list of features that include keyless entry, 14-speaker Bose sound system, Bluetooth Mobile and all around camera, it is suitably equipped to do well in a competitive segment.

There’s no better time to consider an Infiniti than now with the Q50.

Credits: Story and Photos by Benjamin G. Kline