The 2016 Infiniti Q50 represents a pivotal moment for the brand, marking a shift toward a more engaging, sport-oriented driving dynamics while retaining the luxurious comfort the marque is known for. This model year moved away from the previous Etherea concept-inspired design language, instead adopting a more mature and aggressive stance that signaled the performance capabilities lurking beneath the hood. Buyers in 2016 were presented with a compelling mix of refined powertrains, advanced technology, and distinct styling cues that set the Q50 apart in the crowded luxury sedan segment.
Design and Exterior Evolution
Visually, the 2016 Q50 ditched the flowing, organic lines of its predecessor for a more defined and muscular architecture. The front fascia is characterized by a larger, more assertive grille flanked by sharp LED headlights that give the car a wide, prowling appearance. The signature double-arrow grille, a design element borrowed from flagship models, adds a touch of sophistication while improving airflow. The wheel designs range from a classic 17-spoke satin finish on the base model to the more intricate 20-spoke alloys found on the high-performance Red Sport 400, enhancing the car's aggressive profile.
Refined Interior Craftsmanship
Inside, the Q50 moved away from the swoopy, sometimes confusing cockpit of the earlier model year. The 2016 dashboard features a cleaner layout with a prominent center stack and a more intuitive driver-focused cockpit. Premium materials are used throughout, with supple leather upholstery, soft-touch plastics, and optional wood or metal trims creating a cabin that feels both upscale and driver-centric. The available Infiniti InTouch hard drive navigation system, while now dated, offered a robust interface for climate, audio, and vehicle settings.
Powertrain and Performance Options
Under the hood, the 2016 model year offered a clear hierarchy of performance, allowing buyers to tailor the Q50 to their specific desires. The base configuration came equipped with a capable 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering a balance of efficiency and power suitable for daily driving and highway cruising. For those seeking more authority, the 3.0-liter V6 remained the performance heart of the lineup, producing ample power for confident passing and spirited back-road driving.
2.0t AWD: The turbocharged 4-cylinder, paired with a responsive continuously variable transmission (CVT) and available all-wheel drive, provided excellent fuel economy and a smooth power delivery.
3.0t AWD: The 3.0-liter V6, a legendary smooth and powerful unit, was mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission, offering a more direct and engaging driving experience.
Red Sport 400: The top-tier performance model featured a supercharged version of the V6, producing 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, transforming the Q50 into a true sports sedan with track-capable prowess.
Handling and Dynamic Enhancements
What truly defined the 2016 Q50 was its chassis engineering. Available on most trims was the Adaptive Ride Control System, which allowed drivers to choose between Normal, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes. This system adjusted the shock absorber firmness, steering weight, and throttle response to match the driver's mood. The introduction of the Direct Adaptive Steering system was a game-changer, providing a strong, connected feel while filtering out unwanted road chatter, making the steering feel both precise and communicative.
