Introduction to the Infiniti Q50 Sedan
Infiniti, the luxury division of Nissan, has officially announced the discontinuation of its Q50 sedan, marking its transition to an all-SUV lineup. With the Q50’s final model year being 2024, Infiniti’s future offerings will consist solely of SUVs. The sedan, which debuted in 2014, has seen various powertrains and updates over its decade-long production run.
Powertrain Evolution
The Infiniti Q50 started with a 328-hp 3.7-liter V-6 engine. In 2016, this was replaced by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 unit. The Q50 also had a hybrid variant at launch, combining a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor for a total output of 359 hp. Although the hybrid version was discontinued in 2018, it showcased Infiniti’s effort to blend performance with efficiency. Additionally, a 208-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine was available from 2016 to 2019 as an entry-level variant.
The Eau Rouge Concept
One of the most tantalizing aspects of the Infiniti Q50’s history is the Eau Rouge concept, unveiled at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show. Named after a famous corner at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, this concept was poised to rival high-performance sports sedans from BMW and Mercedes-AMG. Featuring a 560-hp twin-turbo V-6 borrowed from the Nissan GT-R and aggressive carbon-fiber bodywork, the all-wheel-drive Eau Rouge was a promising addition that never made it to production.
Future Prospects
Despite the discontinuation of the Q50, Infiniti has teased potential future sedans. The Vision QE concept, revealed in 2023, hints at a forthcoming electric sedan. Expected to share its platform with a revived and electrified Nissan Maxima, this new model could arrive by 2026. This concept indicates Infiniti’s vision for an electrified future, offering a glimpse of what might replace the Q50.
Farewell to the Q50
As we bid adieu to the Infiniti Q50, it’s worth noting that the decision underlines the automotive industry’s shift towards SUVs and electric vehicles. While the Q50’s departure marks the end of Infiniti’s current sedan offerings, the potential for a future electric sedan gives drivers something to look forward to. Until then, the automaker’s focus will remain on enhancing and expanding its SUV lineup.
