2020 Infiniti Q50

2020 Infiniti Q50 Highlights

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 brings several updates to this luxury sport sedan, refining its offerings and enhancing technology features. This model year sees a shift in the Q50's powertrain lineup and improvements to its infotainment system.

Key Details

• Compact sedan body style
• Choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive across the lineup
• Introduction of the new 3.0t Pure trim as the entry-level model
• Discontinuation of the four-cylinder turbo engine option
• Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration across all trims
• Updated dual-screen infotainment and HVAC control system
• Continued availability of the high-performance Red Sport 400 variant

Benefits

• Streamlined engine lineup focusing on V6 performance
• Enhanced connectivity with standard smartphone integration
• Improved user interface with updated infotainment system
• Competitive mix of luxury and sportiness in the midsize sedan segment
• Available high-performance model for enthusiasts
• Distinctive styling sets it apart from European competitors

Related: Here Are The Infiniti Q50 Years To Avoid

2020 Infiniti Q50 Overview

Performance

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 offers two versions of its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine:

Standard 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6:

• 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque
• Available on 3.0t Pure, 3.0t Luxe, and 3.0t Sport trims

High-output 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (Red Sport 400):

• 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque
• Exclusive to the Red Sport 400 trim

Both engines are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available across all trims.

Key performance features include:

• Drive Mode Selector with Standard, Eco, Sport, Sport+, Snow, and Personal modes
• Available Dynamic Digital Suspension (standard on Sport and Red Sport 400)
• Available Direct Adaptive Steering system

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not evaluated the 2020 Infiniti Q50.

Standard safety features on all 2020 Infiniti Q50 trims include:

• Advanced airbag system with dual-stage front airbags
• Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags
• Roof-mounted curtain side-impact airbags
• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System

The Q50 also offers a suite of driver assistance technologies, many of which come standard on higher trims or as part of optional packages:

• Predictive forward collision warning
• Forward emergency braking
• Blind-spot warning and intervention
• Lane departure warning and prevention
• Adaptive cruise control
• Backup collision intervention

Driving

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 offers a driving experience that balances luxury comfort with sporty handling. The sedan's rigid chassis and well-tuned suspension contribute to its composed ride and responsive handling characteristics.

In standard form, the Q50 provides a smooth and quiet ride, well-suited for daily commuting and long-distance cruising. The 300-horsepower twin-turbo V6 delivers ample power for confident acceleration and passing maneuvers.

The Sport and Red Sport 400 trims amp up the performance quotient with their sport-tuned suspensions. The Red Sport 400, in particular, offers exhilarating acceleration and sharper handling, competing with high-performance variants from European luxury brands.

The available all-wheel drive system enhances traction and stability, which is particularly beneficial in regions with inclement weather. It also contributes to improved handling in spirited driving situations.

One unique feature of the Q50 is its available Direct Adaptive Steering system, which uses a steer-by-wire technology. This system allows for a customizable steering feel and quicker responses, though some drivers may find it less natural than traditional steering systems.

Interior

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 interior combines luxury appointments with a driver-focused design. The cabin features high-quality materials and a modern aesthetic, though some may find the overall design less cutting-edge than some European competitors.

2020 Infiniti Q50 interior features include:

• Leather-appointed seating (standard on Luxe and above)
• 8-way power-adjustable front seats
• Dual-zone automatic temperature control
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Available memory system for driver's seat, steering wheel, and outside mirrors
• Available heated front seats and steering wheel

The Q50's front seats offer good comfort and support, with the Sport and Red Sport 400 trims featuring more aggressively bolstered seats for enhanced lateral support during spirited driving. The driving position is generally good, with various seat and steering wheel adjustments.

Rear seat space is adequate for the class, though taller passengers may find headroom slightly limited due to the sloping roofline. The trunk offers 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which is average for the segment.

The 2020 model year updates the Q50's dual-screen infotainment setup, with the upper 8-inch and lower 7-inch touchscreens now offering improved graphics and responsiveness. While this system provides a wealth of functionality, some users may find the dual-screen layout less intuitive than single-screen systems found in some competitors.

Technology

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 comes equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and safety:

• Updated InTouch dual-screen infotainment system (8-inch upper, 7-inch lower touchscreens)
• Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration (new for 2020)
• Infiniti InTouch Services for remote access and emergency services
• Available Bose Performance Series Audio system with 16 speakers
• Available Wi-Fi hotspot
• Surround-view monitor with moving object detection

Fuel Economy

The 2020 Infiniti Q50's fuel economy varies depending on the engine output and drivetrain configuration. According to the EPA, the Q50 achieves the following fuel economy estimates:

3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (300 hp):

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

3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (400 hp) Red Sport 400:

• RWD (mpg) 20 city / 26 highway / 22 combined
• AWD (mpg) 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined

2020 Infiniti Q50 Reviews

2020 Infiniti Q50 consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are very favorable, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. The Q50 also earned high rankings for its quality, reliability, performance, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Powerful twin-turbo V6 engines, especially in the Red Sport 400
• Comfortable and quiet ride in standard trims
• Distinctive exterior styling sets it apart from European competitors
• Available all-wheel drive across all trims
• Spacious front seats and good overall interior comfort
• Competitive pricing compared to some luxury brand rivals
• Updated infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available high-performance model for enthusiasts

Problems

• Fuel economy lags behind some competitors
• Interior design and materials may feel less premium than some European rivals
• The dual-screen infotainment system can be overwhelming for some users
• Limited availability of advanced driver assistance features on lower trims
• Handling isn’t as sharp as some sport-oriented competitors

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

CoPilot's Take

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 occupies an exciting position in the luxury sports sedan market. It offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style that differentiates it from many competitors. The decision to focus solely on V6 power for this model year emphasizes the Q50's performance credentials, particularly in the Red Sport 400 trim.

One of the Q50's most vital points is its powertrain. Both versions of the twin-turbo V6 provide ample power and smooth delivery, with the Red Sport 400 offering genuinely impressive performance. All-wheel drive availability across all trims adds to the Q50's versatility.

Ride comfort is another area where the Q50 excels, particularly in non-sport trims. The cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, and the suspension absorbs road imperfections without sacrificing handling composure.

2020 Infiniti Q50 FAQs

Is the Infiniti Q50 a reliable car?

J.D. Power reports “average” to “great” quality and reliability for the Infiniti Q50, depending on the model year. Meanwhile, NHTSA records show some problems with the engine, powertrain, and electrical system for some early-year examples. These mixed signals mean that any used Infiniti Q50 under consideration should undergo an extensive pre-purchase inspection, focusing on these potential trouble areas.

How long will the 2020 Infiniti Q50 engine last?

With proper maintenance, the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine in the 2020 Infiniti Q50 can last 200,000 miles or more. This VR30DDTT engine is a relatively new design based on Nissan/Infiniti's experience with V6 engines. Factors that can affect engine longevity include:

• Regular maintenance, including oil changes and following the manufacturer's service schedule
• Driving habits (aggressive driving can increase wear)
• Environmental conditions
• Quality of fuel used

Is the 2020 Infiniti Q50 expensive to fix?

The cost of maintaining and repairing a 2020 Infiniti Q50 is generally in line with other luxury sport sedans, which means it can be more expensive than non-luxury vehicles. Several factors contribute to this:

• Specialized parts: Many components are specific to Infiniti or shared with high-end Nissan models, which can be more expensive than parts for mass-market vehicles.
• Labor costs: Luxury vehicles often require specialized knowledge, which can result in higher labor rates at dealerships or specialized repair shops.
• Complex systems: Features like the Direct Adaptive Steering and dual-screen infotainment system can be costly if they malfunction.

Is the 2020 Infiniti Q50 2.0 T a twin turbo?

No, the 2020 Infiniti Q50 does not offer a 2.0T engine option. For the 2020 model year, Infiniti discontinued the previously available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The 2020 Q50 is exclusively powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, available in two output levels:

• Standard version: 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque
• Red Sport 400 version: 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque

Check Out: How Long Do Infiniti Q50s Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan