2016 Infiniti Q50 gains twin-turbo V6

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Infiniti has refreshed the Q50 sedan for 2016 with a number of performance and dynamic upgrades that promise to deliver “a more empowering and rewarding drive experience”.

Making its debut on an Infiniti is the company’s second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering, which has been comprehensively modified from the first generation system after gathering public feedback from around the globe.

The drive-by-wire system has been enhanced with improved levels of steering feel and feedback. Infiniti says the new system not only offers an experience more akin to that of a conventional steering system, but also more options to personalise and tailor the steering system’s levels of response and feel to suit individual’s preferences.

The new Q50 also features Infiniti’s Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS) for the first time, which is said to give the new sports sedan an optimal blend of ride comfort and class-leading response and agility. For keen drivers, the Q50’s Drive Mode Selector (DMS) can be augmented with ‘Personal’ mode, which permits a bespoke mix of engine, suspension and steering characteristics.

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Five powertrain options are offered with the 2016 range, including an all-new 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol engine with direct injection in two states of tune. The high-output version of the power unit delivers 298kW (400hp) at 6,400 rpm and 475 Nm of torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm; while the 224kW version (at 6,400 rpm) produces 400 Nm of torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm.

Also available on the Q50 is a 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbocharged unit producing 155kW and 350Nm, and a 268kW hybrid powertrain which combines a 3.5-litre V6 and a compact laminated lithium-ion battery with an innovative one-motor, two-clutch control.

The new Q50 will also be available with the 2.2-litre direct-injection four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine producing 125kW and 400Nm.

All powertrains are matched to a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and steering column mounted magnesium paddle shifters.

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