Infiniti transitioned from the G-series to the Q50 in 2013, marking a shift not only in naming convention but also in brand direction. Built on the FM platform shared with Nissan’s Z-cars and Infiniti’s EX, FX, and QX lines, the Q50 represented a fusion of bold aesthetics and high-tech engineering. It was, in essence, the Japanese Skyline adapted for luxury markets outside Japan, incorporating performance DNA while elevating design and comfort to match European rivals.
The exterior featured sharp creases and dramatic contours starting at the front fascia and flowing along the sculpted doors to the rear. Its swept-back LED headlights gave the Q50 a striking presence, while the cab-rearward silhouette, short rear deck, and forward-raked rear glass created a dynamic profile. Dual horizontal chrome trims across the trunk visually widened the rear end, linking the LED taillights with a touch of elegance.
Inside, the Q50 was both refined and spacious. The cabin provided class-leading legroom and headroom, especially in the rear, though the middle seat was best suited for smaller passengers due to the raised central tunnel. Infiniti’s use of high-quality materials and ergonomic seat design, particularly in the Sport trim, offered both comfort and support. The front seats featured ample bolstering for spirited driving, while still accommodating long-distance comfort.
The Q50’s technology stack was advanced for its time, though with some trade-offs. The dual-screen center console setup enabled simultaneous navigation and infotainment use. The upper screen handled maps and camera views, while the lower one controlled media and settings. However, even by 2018, the Q50 lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a notable omission as competitors widely adopted smartphone connectivity.
Updates in 2016 introduced Infiniti’s next-gen direct adaptive steering and dynamic digital suspension systems - key enhancements that sharpened driving response and comfort. The steer-by-wire system reduced vibration and provided quicker feedback, while the adaptive suspension tuned the ride quality based on driving mode and road conditions.
Though not always top of mind in the luxury compact sedan segment, the Q50 attracted buyers with its distinctive styling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and generous feature set. And for Infiniti Q50 owners in Boston and surrounding areas, SherlockLock delivers specialized automotive locksmith services - ranging from lost key fob replacement to emergency lockouts and ignition repairs - tailored for modern, tech-rich vehicles like the Q50.