2015 Infiniti Q50

2015 Infiniti Q50 Highlights

The 2015 Q50 may look like the next evolution of the G37, and it is. Kind of. The Q50 is the true successor to Infiniti’s long-beloved G37, which itself became the Q40 in 2014. The Q40 and Q50 were stablemates until the Q40 was discontinued after the 2015 model year. Both are saddled with the brand’s decision to make all models a ‘Q,’ regardless of whether the vehicle is a sports sedan, SUV, or mid-size crossover. So, though the two models coexisted briefly, there’s no question the Q50 is the new version of the long-running sports sedan. In fact, the G37/Q40 carried the internal development name, “V36,” while the Q50 was the “V37.”

Infiniti kept the car nearly unchanged for 2015, though the company did add a new wheel/tire package that sports 19-inch RAYS lightweight wheels. The 2015 Infiniti Q50 Premium and S models are available with hybrid powertrains.

Key Details

• Compact sedan body style
• Two-row seating for up to five passengers
• New 19-inch lightweight wheel package
• Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Choice of V6 or hybrid powertrains
• Direct Adaptive Steering system
• Multiple drive modes
• InTouch dual-screen interface

Benefits

• Strong V6 performance
• Available hybrid powertrain
• Advanced technology features
• Choice of drivetrain configurations
• Premium interior materials
• Comprehensive safety systems

Learn More: Here Are The Infiniti Q50 Years To Avoid

2015 Infiniti Q50 Overview

Performance

The 2015 Infiniti Q50 offers two powertrain options:

3.7-liter V6 engine:

• 328 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque
• Seven-speed automatic transmission
• Available in RWD or AWD
• 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds

Hybrid powertrain:

• 3.5-liter V6 with electric motor
• Combined 360 horsepower
• Seven-speed automatic transmission
• Available in RWD or AWD
• 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds

Performance features include:

• Drive Mode Selector
• Available Direct Adaptive Steering
• Double-piston shock absorbers
• Sport-tuned suspension (Sport models)
• Available performance brakes

In addition to more aggressive suspension and brakes, the 2015 Infiniti Q50 Sport models also feature paddle shifters, a bespoke front bumper, and a ten-way power driver’s seat.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2015 Infiniti Q50 a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2015 Q50 a Top Safety Pick+, the group’s highest designation, when equipped with optional front crash prevention.

Standard safety features include:

• Advanced airbag system
• Vehicle dynamic control
• Traction control system
• Advanced vehicle dynamic control
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• LED brake lights
• Pop-up hood for pedestrian safety
• Rearview camera

Driver assistance technologies:

• Predictive forward collision warning
• Forward emergency braking
• Lane departure prevention
• Blind spot intervention
• Back-up collision intervention
• Intelligent cruise control

Driving

Carrying on the legacy of the G35 and G37, the Q50 is a sporty, engaging sedan designed to provide daily-usable comfort while also being able to carve up twisty back roads. The 2015 Infiniti Q50 3.7 V6 engine is powerful and rev-happy, although it falls behind turbocharged competitors from BMW and Audi. The hybrid system offers additional power with improved efficiency.

Infiniti’s seven-speed automatic transmission operates smoothly in both configurations, with manual shift mode and downshift rev-matching available. When equipped, the Direct Adaptive Steering system offers customizable steering feel through various modes, though most buyers and reviewers prefer the standard rack-and-pinion steering.

While rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard, many Q50s drive all four wheels. 2015 Infiniti Q50 AWD models offer improved traction in snowy or icy conditions.

Drive Mode Selector provides multiple settings:

• Standard mode for daily driving
• Sport mode for enhanced response
• Eco mode for improved efficiency
• Personal mode for custom settings

The suspension tuning varies by model:

• Standard setup focuses on comfort
• Sport models feature firmer springs and dampers
• Double-piston shock absorbers for improved control
• Available active lane control system

Interior

The 2015 Infiniti Q50 interior combines luxury materials with modern technology integration.

Key interior features include:

• Leather-appointed seating (Premium and above)
• Eight-way power-adjustable front seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Available aluminum or wood trim
• Power moonroof (Premium and above)

The front seats provide good comfort and support, with ample adjustment range. The rear seat space comfortably accommodates adult passengers, with adequate headroom and legroom for the segment. Sport models get adjustable side bolsters and thigh extenders for the driver’s seat.

Cargo capacity:

• 13.5 cubic feet (standard models)
• 9.4 cubic feet (hybrid models)

Interior materials reflect the luxury positioning:

• Available Japanese Ash wood trim
• Aluminum door accents
• Premium leather options
• Available aluminum pedals

Technology

The 2015 Infiniti Q50 features advanced technology systems:

Standard features:

• InTouch dual-screen system
• Upper eight-inch and lower seven-inch displays
• Bluetooth connectivity
• USB ports
• Infiniti Drive Mode Selector

Available features include:

• Navigation system
• Bose 14-speaker audio system
• Around View Monitor
• Climate control with air purification
• Voice recognition

Fuel Economy

The 2015 Infiniti Q50's fuel economy varies by powertrain and drivetrain configuration. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Q50 achieves the following fuel economy estimates:

3.7-liter V6:

• RWD (mpg): 20 city / 29 highway / 23 combined
• AWD (mpg): 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined

Hybrid:

• RWD (mpg): 29 city / 36 highway / 31 combined
• AWD (mpg): 28 city / 34 highway / 30 combined

S Hybrid:

• RWD (mpg): 28 city / 33 highway / 30 combined
• AWD (mpg): 27 city / 30 highway / 28 combined

Premium fuel is required for all models to achieve optimal performance and efficiency.

2015 Infiniti Q50 Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2015 Infiniti Q50 an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5. Owners praise the vehicle for its styling, comfort, and performance.

Reasons to Buy It

• Both the standard V6 and hybrid versions offer compelling performance
• Luxurious materials and technology
• High safety ratings
• Choice of RWD or AWD
• Competitive fuel economy in hybrid models

Problems

• Direct Adaptive Steering feedback can feel artificial
• Complex dual-screen interface
• Reduced trunk space in hybrid models
• Some technology features can be distracting
• Premium fuel requirement

Explore: Which Years of Used Infiniti Q50s Are Most Reliable?

CoPilot's Take

The 2015 Infiniti Q50 may be getting long in the tooth, but it still provides the same compelling combo of luxury and sportiness the model always has. Its strong performance, advanced technology, and premium features help it compete with established European rivals.

While the standard V6 provides strong performance, buyers who want more oomph and efficiency will appreciate the hybrid version. With the hybrid powertrain, 2015 Infiniti Q50 3.7 horsepower grows from 328 to 360. The availability of both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations lets buyers choose whether they want to hang the tail out or have sure-footed traction no matter what.

However, Q50 shoppers should consider a few factors. While innovative, the Direct Adaptive Steering system may not appeal to drivers who prefer traditional steering feel, and it can feel strange or unsettling to use. The dual-screen interface can require a learning period, and some may find it complex to operate while driving.

2015 Infiniti Q50 FAQ

How long does the 2015 Infiniti Q50 last?

With proper maintenance, a 2015 Infiniti Q50 can last 200,000 miles or more.

How much does it cost to fill up a 2015 Infiniti Q50?

Fuel costs for the 2015 Q50 depend on several factors:

Tank Capacity:

• 20.0 gallons (V6 models)
• 17.8 gallons (Hybrid models)

Approximate Fill-up Cost (at $3.50/gallon premium fuel):

• V6: $70 per tank
• Hybrid: $62 per tank

Driving Range:

• V6 RWD: up to 600 miles
• V6 AWD: up to 540 miles
• Hybrid RWD: up to 640 miles
• Hybrid AWD: up to 623 miles

Does the Infiniti Q50 have transmission problems?

The 2015 Q50's seven-speed automatic transmission has shown reasonable reliability, though some issues have been reported:

Common Concerns:

• Delayed shifting
• Harsh engagement
• Occasional software issues
• Fluid leaks

Prevention:

• Regular maintenance
• Transmission fluid changes
• Software updates
• Proper driving habits

Is the Infiniti Q50 expensive to maintain?

Maintenance costs for the 2015 Q50 are typical for a luxury sports sedan:

Regular Costs:

• Oil changes: $75-125
• Brake service: $300-800
• Transmission service: $200-400
• Major service: $500-1,000+

Factors affecting cost:

• Local labor rates
• Parts availability
• Service location choice
• Maintenance history
• Drivetrain configuration

Check Out: How To Use The Infiniti Q50 Remote Start