Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe, a car that aims to blend luxury with a sporty driving experience. If you're in the market for a premium sedan and want something that stands out from the usual suspects, the Q50 might just be what you’re looking for. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details and see what this car has to offer!

Overview of the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe

The 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe sits in a competitive segment, battling rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi A4. What sets it apart? Well, Infiniti has always strived to offer a unique blend of style, performance, and value. The Luxe trim, in particular, aims to provide a luxurious experience without breaking the bank. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is designed to offer a balance between fuel efficiency and decent power. This engine is good for around 208 horsepower, making it adequate for daily driving and occasional spirited runs. The exterior styling is sleek and modern, with Infiniti's signature double-arch grille and aggressive lines giving it a distinctive presence on the road. Inside, the cabin is well-appointed with comfortable seats and a good amount of technology. The Q50 20t Luxe also comes standard with a suite of safety features, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers. Overall, the 2018 Q50 20t Luxe aims to deliver a premium driving experience with a touch of Japanese flair. It's a car that’s definitely worth considering if you're looking for something a little different in the luxury sedan market. So, stick around as we delve deeper into the specifics and see how it stacks up against the competition. We'll cover everything from performance and handling to interior comfort and tech features. Let's get started!

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about what's under the hood of the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe: the performance and handling. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the heart of this car, and it delivers a respectable 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it provides ample power for everyday driving. The turbocharger helps to deliver a smooth and linear powerband, making acceleration feel effortless. When you put your foot down, the Q50 responds with a decent surge of power, allowing you to merge onto highways and pass other cars with ease. The engine is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently. You also have the option to use the manual shift mode with paddle shifters, giving you more control over the gears when you want a more engaging driving experience. In terms of handling, the Q50 20t Luxe offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, making it a pleasant car to drive on long journeys. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you confidence in corners. However, some drivers may find the steering to be a bit numb, lacking the feedback of some of its rivals. The Q50 also features Infiniti's Drive Mode Selector, which allows you to choose from different driving modes such as Standard, Sport, Eco, and Snow. Each mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to optimize performance for different driving conditions. Overall, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe offers a balanced driving experience, with adequate power, smooth handling, and a comfortable ride. It may not be the sportiest car in its class, but it's a solid choice for those who prioritize comfort and refinement. We will continue to breakdown the interior and technology next.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe, you're greeted with a well-appointed cabin that blends comfort with modern technology. The interior design is elegant and refined, with high-quality materials used throughout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The Luxe trim comes standard with leatherette upholstery, which looks and feels premium. You also get power-adjustable front seats, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The dashboard is dominated by Infiniti's InTouch dual-screen infotainment system. The upper screen is an 8-inch display that shows navigation and other information, while the lower 7-inch screen is used to control audio, climate, and other vehicle settings. While the dual-screen setup looks modern, some users may find it a bit clunky to use compared to single-screen systems in rival cars. However, it does offer a good level of customization and functionality. The Q50 20t Luxe also comes standard with a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Optional features include a premium Bose audio system, navigation, and a suite of advanced safety technologies. In terms of space, the Q50 offers a decent amount of room for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are comfortable enough for adults, although taller passengers may find the legroom a bit tight. The trunk offers a respectable 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which is adequate for most needs. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe is a pleasant place to be. It offers a comfortable and refined environment with a good level of technology. While the dual-screen infotainment system may take some getting used to, it provides a wealth of features and customization options. Now, let's move on to discuss the reliability and common problems associated with this model.

Reliability and Common Problems

When considering the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe, it's essential to look into its reliability and any common problems that owners have reported. Generally, the Q50 has a decent reliability record, but like any car, it's not without its issues. One of the most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Q50 is related to the Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system. This system, which is optional on some trims, replaces the traditional mechanical steering linkage with electronic controls. While it's designed to provide a more precise and customizable steering experience, some owners have complained about a lack of feedback and a disconnected feel. There have also been reports of the system malfunctioning, leading to unpredictable steering behavior. Another area of concern is the infotainment system. Some owners have reported glitches, slow response times, and connectivity issues with the InTouch dual-screen system. While these issues may not be major, they can be frustrating to deal with on a daily basis. In terms of mechanical reliability, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has generally proven to be reliable, with few major issues reported. However, like any turbocharged engine, it's important to keep up with regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Overall, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe is a relatively reliable car, but it's important to be aware of the potential issues with the steering system and infotainment system. If you're considering buying a used Q50, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for any potential problems. Additionally, be sure to research the specific trim level and options to determine if it has the DAS system, as this has been a source of concern for some owners. As always, proper maintenance and care can go a long way in ensuring the reliability of any vehicle. Next we will summarize the pros and cons.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe into its pros and cons to give you a clear picture of what this car brings to the table.

Pros:

• Stylish Design: The Q50 boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that stands out from the crowd. Its signature double-arch grille and aggressive lines give it a distinctive presence on the road.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and composed ride even on rough roads. This makes it a great car for long journeys.
• Decent Performance: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers adequate power for everyday driving, with smooth acceleration and a responsive feel.
• Well-Appointed Interior: The cabin is well-designed with high-quality materials and comfortable seats, creating a pleasant and refined environment.
• Available Technology: The Q50 offers a range of technology features, including the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system and available advanced safety technologies.

Cons:

• Infotainment System: The dual-screen infotainment system can be a bit clunky and difficult to use compared to single-screen systems in rival cars.
• Steering Feel: Some drivers may find the steering to be numb and lacking in feedback, especially with the optional Direct Adaptive Steering system.
• Rear Seat Space: Rear seat legroom can be a bit tight for taller passengers.
• Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy of the 2.0-liter engine is not as good as some of its rivals.
• Reliability Concerns: There have been some reports of issues with the steering system and infotainment system, which could be a concern for some buyers.

Overall, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe offers a good balance of style, comfort, and performance. It's a solid choice for those who want a premium sedan that stands out from the crowd. However, it's important to be aware of the potential issues with the infotainment system and steering, and to weigh these against the car's strengths before making a decision. As we wrap things up, let's provide a final verdict on whether this car is worth considering.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe? After taking a comprehensive look at its performance, interior, technology, reliability, and pros and cons, it's clear that this car has a lot to offer. The Q50 20t Luxe stands out with its stylish design, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, and the available technology features add to the overall driving experience. However, it's important to consider the potential downsides, such as the clunky infotainment system, numb steering feel, and some reliability concerns. These issues may not be deal-breakers for everyone, but they should be taken into account when making a decision. If you prioritize style, comfort, and a unique driving experience, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 20t Luxe is definitely worth considering. It offers a good balance of features and value, making it a competitive option in the luxury sedan market. However, if you're looking for the sportiest or most technologically advanced car in its class, you may want to explore other options. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Q50 is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels behind the wheel. Pay attention to the steering feel, infotainment system, and overall comfort, and compare it to other cars in its class. With careful consideration, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect car to fit your needs and preferences. Thanks for joining us on this in-depth review! Drive safe, everyone!