Long-term Introduction: Infiniti Q50S Hybrid
When the Infiniti joined our long-term fleet I was handed the keys for the first leg of the test. Four-time F1 driver’s champion Sebastian Vettel was the director of performance of the Q50, and I was very excited about getting behind the wheel to get a sense of what this 3,5-litre V6 Direct Response Hybrid was like.
By virtue of delivering a combined output of 261 kW, the Q50S is a great deal of fun to drive and the seamless operation from all-electric mode to full hybrid mode is a standout feature. The steer-by-wire direct adaptive steering, which essentially is a digitally enhanced steering system, allows you to adjust the tiller’s ratio and feel.
The action initially feels somewhat artificial, but with a bit of familiarisation you swiftly get to terms with the very sensitive responses to your inputs.
The Q50S’ powertrain includes a seven-speed automatic that is silky smooth and never found searching for the right gear. There is also a driver mode switch that allows the driver to select from personal, sport, standard and eco modes. I spent most of my time in eco mode, but also shifted to sport when a stint of dynamic driving felt in order.
From a looks point of view the Q50S really does deliver the sportiness that so many compact executive sedan buyers are looking for, and the hallmark double arch grille makes it instantly recognisable. This has to be the best-looking Infiniti on our market – and by some margin.
The interior is a classy affair and oozes sporty sophistication. The Q50S’ cabin materials are top-notch; the front seats are supremely comfortable and they offer adjustable lumbar support.
This model’s spec list is extensive. A few features that have impressed are the Intelligent Cruise Control, which automatically reduces the Infiniti’s speed when traffic in front of you slows down, as well as the Around View Monitor, which displays the vehicle’s surroundings when you make parking manoeuvres. The centre console design is superb and the dual touchscreen interface, which allows you to toggle climate control and sat- nav map settings (among other things), is very intuitive. Rear space is a bit confined, but the designers compensated for that by cleverly shaping the front seatsbacks for added legroom.
The one flaw of the car is its boot capacity. By virtue of housing the hybrid system’s battery pack under the boot board, the 240 dm3 bay is not big enough for a family; even if you are a keen golfer you will struggle to fit the clubs into the boot.
After 2 months
Current mileage: 2 080 km
Average fuel consumption: 11,5 L/100 km
