Infiniti Q50 taking on C-Class, A4, 3-Series
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22nd March, 2013
The Infiniti Q50 introduces world-first technologies, ushers in a
never-before-seen level of dynamic customisation and reinforces Infiniti‘s performance-first ethos with a Q50 Hybrid set
to rewrite the record books.
At a glance
• All-new premium design featuring craftsmanship and technology
• First new-generation Infiniti Q model
• Rear-wheel drive, manual or automatic transmission
• 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine with 170PS, 400Nm of torque and under 115g/km CO2 (estimated*), 0-100 km/h in
under 9 seconds and 4.4 l/100km (estimated)
• 364PS Q50 3.5 Hybrid version with 0-100km/h in under 5.5 seconds and under 145g/km CO2 (estimated)
• Dynamic drive enhanced by driver-selectable steering weight and gearing with world-first Direct Adaptive Steering
• Stress-reducing Active Lane Control that “magnetises” the car within its lane
• Highly customisable digital environment: dual touch-screens for totally intuitive control
• Class-best wheelbase for spacious rear accommodation
• New comfortable seat designed with spinal support inspired by zero gravity research by NASA
• On sale across Europe from the northern autumn and in Australia during Q4.
In Detail
The first of a new-generation of premium Infiniti models, the Q50 is Infiniti’s most significant car yet for numerous
markets. Marking the debut of the new Infiniti Q naming structure, the Q50 is designed, engineered, equipped and built to
compete at the highest level in the European premium D-segment.
With its low and wide proportions and 'athletic', flowing
form the Infiniti Q50 brings a new level of emotional design to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class/BMW 3-series/Audi A4 models – a
fresh face whose self-confidence is summed up by its striking new human-eye like headlights and distinctive ‘double arch’
grille. Other design features, inspired by Infiniti’s trilogy of concept cars – Essence, Etherea and Emerg-e – go
hand-in-hand with an interior that offers unexpectedly spacious accommodation for this class.
The Infiniti Q50 is the
first Infiniti to benefit from the brand’s collaboration agreement with Daimler AG. The 2.2-litre direct-injection
four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine has been modified by the Infiniti engineering teams to ensure engine response is in
line with Infiniti’s emphasis on performance. The engine offers power and torque whilst retaining a low CO2 output (under
115g/km) which positions the Q50 at the centre of the premium saloon market in Europe – as well as guaranteeing the
dynamic drive Infiniti owners expect. Like the engine, both available transmissions – a 6-speed manual and 7-speed
automatic – have been tailored to Infiniti’s specific requirements.
The second version of the Q50 for Europe is the Q50 3.5 Direct Response Hybrid whose accelerative ability will
guarantee it a place in the top echelons of European high performance sports saloons. With 0-100 km/h estimated to be
well under 5.5 seconds it is likely even to topple its big 'brother', the Infiniti M35h, which is currently listed in
Guinness World Records as the world’s fastest accelerating hybrid car.
The 364PS Q50 3.5 Hybrid shares the same intelligent dual-clutch Direct Response Hybrid system and 7-speed
automatic transmission as the M35h, but with changes to improve performance, extend its electric-only range and allow for
an outstanding cargo capacity for a hybrid in this class.
In characteristic no-compromise Infiniti manner, the performance is matched by a remarkable level of efficiency – with
fuel consumption on the combined cycle estimated to be 6.2 l/100km and CO2 emissions under 145g/km. The Q50 3.5 Hybrid
will be available in both rear and all-wheel drive forms in Europe.
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Self-Catering Holiday
Accommodation in
Denmark, WA
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The dynamic performance offered by every Infiniti Q50 is enhanced with the availability of Direct Adaptive
Steering – a world-first technology that provides faster steering response and greater precision with an unrivalled scope
for driver customisation. Direct Adaptive Steering can be configured easily for both steering effort and gearing,
ensuring steering response is always in tune with driving style and type of road. The system is overseen by three
separate control units and works in parallel with the mechanical steering linkage for failsafe reliability in all
situations.
Infiniti’s reputation as a technology leader is reinforced in the Q50 with the world’s most advanced lane
departure prevention technology yet, Active Lane Control. The newest addition to Infiniti’s all-encompassing Safety
Shield technology, Active Lane Control is unique in using the steering (rather than the brakes) to encourage the car to
stay between the lane markings on the motorway – an effect described as being “magnetised to within its lane”, making
driving less tiring on long journeys.
Like all Infiniti technologies, Direct Adaptive Steering and Active Lane Control
have been developed to seamlessly and unobtrusively support the driver rather than isolate them. The Infiniti Q50 offers
a new-generation digital environment designed for maximum customisation and ease of use. Up to 96 vehicle parameters can
stored on the i-Key for up to four different drivers, making the Q50 not just one of the most configurable cars in the
class but also one that offers a very real sense of “my car knows me”.
Infiniti InTouch™, Infiniti’s next-generation communications technology, makes its debut on the Q50. Dual
touch-screens, a first in the class, de-clutter the control lay out and ensure totally intuitive operation of all
functions, features and custom apps.
The Q50’s interior has an emphasis on natural elegance, spacious rear passenger accommodation and the signature
craftsmanship, attention to detail and premium materials that set every Infiniti apart. In the design, there is a clear
focus on the driver.
Comfort was a
particular focus and in the search for a new type of comfortable seat came from NASA research into the neutral posture
the body adopts in a zero gravity environment. The Q50’s comfort seats are designed to offer maximum spinal support and
thus reduce fatigue on long drives.
The Q50 is the first model to feature Infiniti’s new naming strategy that will see
all models bear either a Q or (for the cross-overs) QX badge. The change recalls iconic Q models of Infiniti’s past and
offers a clear and logical naming platform into which all existing and future Infiniti models will fit, with the double
digit number signifying the area of the market where the car competes.
The Infiniti Q50 made its European debut at the
Geneva Motor Show earlier this month – in the same halls that in previous years saw its concept car forebears unveiled
– following its world reveal at the Detroit Motor Show in January. The Q50 in both diesel and hybrid forms will go on
sale across Europe from autumn 2013 (depending on country) in a range of standard and Sport models all designed to
offer maximum choice and flexibility for buyers.
Stay tuned to Next Car for local specification, pricing and release details in due course.
E&OE.
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