2016 Infiniti Q50 2.0T: Luxury Sedan Reality Check

Competitive Landscape: Where the Q50 Stands

The compact luxury sedan segment represents the entry point for premium brands, serving as the gateway to customer loyalty in higher-end models. In this fiercely competitive arena, the 2016 Infiniti Q50 2.0T faces formidable rivals:

• Mercedes-Benz C300 - The benchmark for refinement
• BMW 3 Series - The driver's choice
• Cadillac ATS 2.0T - American performance alternative
• Lexus IS 200t - Japanese luxury with reliability
• Audi A4 - Tech-forward contender

Evolution of the Q50 Lineage

The 2016 model year brought significant updates to Infiniti's entry-luxury sedan, marking an important step in the model's evolution from its origins as the G35. The refresh included:

• New Mercedes-Benz-sourced 2.0L turbocharged engine option
• Available 400-hp twin-turbo V-6 for performance enthusiasts
• Redesigned front and rear styling elements
• Completely revamped Infiniti InTouch multimedia system
• Enhanced safety technology packages
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Exterior Design: Form Meets Function

The Q50's styling represents Infiniti's evolving design language, featuring:

• Sleek, coupe-like profile with muscular haunches
• Distinctive double-arch grille with mesh insert
• Jewel-like LED headlights with available adaptive front lighting
• Aggressive lower air intakes and fog light housings
• Standard 17-inch wheels (optional 19-inch upgrades)

While not as classically proportioned as the Mercedes C-Class, the Q50 projects a more athletic, aggressive stance than the conservative Lexus IS. The design particularly shines in Sport trim with larger wheels that better fill the wheel wells.

Powertrain Performance: The Heart of the Matter

The 2016 Q50 introduced three engine options:

The 2.0T Driving Experience

The base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, sourced from Mercedes-Benz, delivers adequate but uninspiring performance. Key characteristics include:

• Noticeable turbo lag below 2,000 rpm
• Coarse engine note under acceleration
• 7-speed automatic transmission hesitates to downshift
• Moderate body roll in corners
• Firm ride quality over rough pavement

Compared to the same engine in the Mercedes C300 (which produces 241 hp), the Q50's implementation feels less refined and more strained. The weight difference (Q50 is ~200 lbs heavier) exacerbates the performance gap.

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Chassis Dynamics: Handling and Comfort

The Q50's driving dynamics present a mixed bag:

• Steering: Base models use hydraulic power steering (unusual for class) that provides decent feedback but lacks precision
• Suspension: Standard setup tuned for sportiness over comfort; optional Dynamic Digital Suspension improves compliance
• Braking: Linear pedal feel but longer stopping distances than German rivals
• Noise: Significant road noise on coarse surfaces; excessive engine noise during acceleration

The optional Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system, Infiniti's innovative steer-by-wire technology, debuted its second generation in the 2016 Q50. While improved from the first iteration, it still delivers an artificial feel that purists may dislike.

Interior Quality and Comfort

The Q50's cabin presents both highlights and disappointments:

Materials and Craftsmanship

• Soft-touch surfaces on upper dash and door panels
• Disappointing hard plastics on lower console and rear doors
• Faux-metal trim appears cheap in direct sunlight
• Standard leatherette seats wear better than expected
• Optional leather upgrades improve premium feel
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Ergonomics and Space

• Driver-focused cockpit with clear sightlines
• Confusing button placement (some hidden below steering wheel)
• Generous rear legroom for class (more than ATS or IS)
• Comfortable front seats lack lateral support in base form
• Excellent outward visibility compared to competitors

Technology and Infotainment

The 2016 refresh introduced Infiniti's new InTouch dual-screen system:

• Upper 8-inch display: Handles navigation, vehicle settings
• Lower 7-inch touchscreen: Controls audio, climate, smartphone integration
• Pros: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, customizable home screens
• Cons: Small fonts, glossy screens attract fingerprints, slow response times
• Audio: Standard 6-speaker system underwhelms; optional Bose 16-speaker upgrade recommended

While an improvement over previous systems, InTouch remains behind class leaders like Mercedes' COMAND or Audi's MMI in intuitiveness and execution.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2016 Q50 earned top safety marks:

• NHTSA 5-Star Overall Safety Rating
• IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with optional front crash prevention
• Standard rearview camera
• Available Driver Assistance Package adds:
  • Forward collision warning with automatic braking
  • Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
  • Around-view 360-degree camera system
  • Lane departure warning and prevention
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Practical Considerations: Cargo and Storage

The Q50 offers competitive utility for the class:

• 13.5 cubic foot trunk (larger than C-Class but smaller than IS)
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats for long items
• Generous front cubby storage with deep center console
• Door pockets accommodate large water bottles
• Available trunk pass-through for skis/snowboards

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2016 Q50 lineup offered multiple configurations:

Competitive Comparison

How the Q50 2.0T stacks up against key rivals:

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Ownership Considerations

Prospective buyers should weigh these factors:

Advantages

• Strong value proposition with generous standard features
• Reliable Mercedes-sourced powertrain (proven in C-Class)
• Comfortable ride for daily commuting
• Above-average rear seat room for class
• Lower maintenance costs than German rivals

Drawbacks

• Underpowered base engine
• Subpar interior materials for class
• Confusing infotainment interface
• Firm ride quality on rough roads
• Resale values trail German competitors
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Final Recommendations

The 2016 Infiniti Q50 2.0T makes the most sense for:

• Budget-conscious luxury buyers prioritizing features over brand prestige
• Drivers who value comfort over sporty handling
• Those needing rear seat space in a compact luxury sedan
• Buyers planning to keep the car long-term (better reliability than some Europeans)

For enthusiasts or those seeking a more premium experience, stepping up to the 3.0T models or considering a certified pre-owned German alternative may prove more satisfying.

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