Though the design is aging, the 2023 Infiniti Q50 makes up for it with impressive power at a competitive price.
The Q50 is a small luxury sport sedan that was introduced in 2014. Competitors in this segment include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Volvo S60, Audi A4, and BMW 3-Series. Though it’s showing its age, the 2023 Infiniti Q50 balances value and performance.
For 2023, Infiniti adds up to three years of Infiniti Premium Care complimentary scheduled maintenance on all new 2023 Q50s sold or leased. Infiniti’s optional illuminated grille emblem, previously available only on Red Sport models, is now available on the mid-tier Sensory trim. Saddle Brown leather upholstery is now available on the base Luxe trim.
The Q50 has familiar, but pleasant, styling outside. The Q50’s styling is aging gracefully, though it’s still reminiscent of the brand’s older models, particularly the G35. With Red Sport 400 models, more dramatic air intakes and sportier wheels go nicely with the performance enhancements.
Infiniti offers a lot of underhood muscle for the money in the 2023 Q50 with AWD available across the lineup for an additional $2,000. Entry-level models come powered by a 300-hp twin-turbo V-6 engine paired with a 7-speed automatic. That’s a great amount of power for the price, since competitors with similar specs tend to have an MSRP around $50,000.
The Q50 Red Sport 400 models feature a tuned version of that same V-6 that yields an additional 100 hp, making for a commute that feels quite speedy. Though all Q50 models have good ride quality, competitors in the class tend to have better handling. The Red Sport 400 is available with adaptive dampers that aren’t always successful at smoothing out the roughness of the 19-inch wheels.
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 trades on its power, not its frugality. The Q50 requires premium fuel and has lower EPA ratings than competitors. Base models are rated for 20 mpg city, 29 highway, and 23 combined; with all-wheel drive, those numbers fall to 19/27/22 mpg. The Q50 Red Sport model is rated for a combined 22 mpg. That isn’t too unreasonable considering its additional horsepower.
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 has not been fully crash-tested. The NHTSA and IIHS haven’t fully tested 2022 or 2023 Q50 models, so we can’t calculate a score. The IIHS offers up incomplete data, but it’s generally scored “Good,” though there are some “Acceptable” and “Marginal” ratings for headlights. Every Q50 comes standard with a surround-view camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors.
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 feels more luxurious inside thanks to standard leather seats. If you can look past the dated design, the 2023 Infiniti Q50 dresses its space with nice materials. Last year added standard leather, and upper trims get an upgrade to semi-aniline leather. Front seats are supportive, with numerous power adjustments. There’s decent legroom in the back, but the bench is narrow and doesn’t quite accommodate three adults. Base Luxury versions feature aluminum trim in the cabin, while genuine wood is used in higher grades. The trunk measures in at a scant 13.2 cubic feet with a tight opening, which complicates cargo loading.
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 is more expensive this year, but it’s actually a better value. The Q50 is available in base Luxe, mid-tier Sensory, and top-tier Red Sport 400 trims. All three are well-equipped; the $43,275 Q50 Luxe comes with leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats, a moonroof, a twin-screen infotainment setup, and wireless Apple CarPlay. There’s also a bunch of standard driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control. That’s more value than you’ll get with similarly-priced rivals. The Sensory model costs $49,425 and includes bigger wheels and navigation. The Red Sport 400 and Red Sport 400 AWD top the lineup at $57,575 and $59,575, respectively.
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 offers commendable value and is a standout in Red Sport trim. With a rocketing 400 Horsepower, AWD, and cutting-edge technology, the Q50 Red Sport demands to be on anyone’s shopping list. Contemporary styling and decent road manners add the Q50’s strong traits, the fact that Infiniti bakes in impressive values only solidifies the need for a look.
