Opt for the intelligent alternative
The Infiniti Q50 offers a smart choice in the executive sedan market
HYBRID technology has been in the market for a number of years now and remains the stopgap between combustion only and fully electric vehicles. While many a manufacturer continues to offer their champion, most claim to reduce fuel consumption and emissions and very little else.
Infiniti has an altogether different take to the technology with the introduction of the Q50 hybrid sport saloon. Launched in SA in 2014 to take on the likes of the BMW ActiveHybrid 3, the Q50 hybrid’s system is also utilised to work in tandem with the 3.5l V6 engine to boost power, much like a turbocharger, but with less drawbacks. It features a lithium-ion battery and a 50kW electric motor. Unlike the turbocharger that requires exhaust gases to spin, which causes delays or lag when the throttle is depressed, the electric motor in the hybrid system delivers power from standstill. The result is a sharper throttle response and instantaneous power delivery. At slow speeds, the system can run in electric vehicle (EV) mode, shutting down the combustion engine, which works in parallel with system.
Unlike plug-in hybrids or fully electric cars, the Q50 uses both engine and brake recuperation to recharge the batteries. EV mode is also possible, particularly at slow speeds. To not to run over pedestrians during this mode, the car sounds a chime of sorts to warn pedestrians of its presence.
The model is available in either rear or all-wheel drive options, and features Direct Adaptive Steering, steer-by-wire technology that has only previously been seen on the latest jet planes. The system provides the driver with the ability to adjust both the steering’s response and weight to suit personal preferences and type of driving. In addition an Active Lane Control system, which reduces the amount of driver adjustments needed to stay in the chosen lane on motorways, is also on offer.
Other technological highlights include the tailored key fob, known as i-Key, which stores various personal settings in the car. Each of the two i-Keys supplied with every Q50 stores personal settings for two different drivers. The information is saved automatically and can be updated on the touchscreens. Tailoring the personal profiles extends to a facility to load up to 16 photographs.
While functions vary between models, engines and transmissions, a The interior is packed with the latest technology as standard. constant is the new Infiniti Drive Mode Selector, fitted to every model. Operated by a switch on the centre console, the selector offers performance choices including Standard, Sport, Eco (not on the diesel), Snow (automatic only) and Personal. Depending on the model, Personal is the custom setting where a driver can choose his or her ideal performance feel, not just engine and transmission changes but also steering weight and response type on vehicles equipped with the Direct Adaptive Steering system.
It can also remember each driver’s preferences for the host of hi-tech technologies to enhance the drive and keep the car out of trouble. Where these systems offer control choices — ranging from a simple on/off to the level of electronic intervention required — the settings are stored and automatically engaged whenever that driver is behind the wheel.
This guarantees that, whoever is driving, the car’s electronic systems — many of which form part of the innovative Safety Shield — will always be perfectly set for that driver without the need to press buttons or scroll through menus. Features include the world-first Predictive Forward Collision Warning which uses some of the most advanced sensor technology yet developed to react to the speed/ distance not just of the car in front, but also the car in front of that.
Other systems include (depending on model): Back-up Collision Intervention, Intelligent Brake Assist Plus, Lateral Stability Enhancement, Active Trace Control, Intelligent Cruise Control, Distance Control Assist, High Beam Assistant and Blind Spot Intervention and Warning.
Life on board offers even more personalisation options, all of which the vehicle will recognise as those of the particular driver behind the wheel. Depending on model, favoured driving position (seats, steering column, exterior mirrors), climate control, navigation routes and options, and preferences for the InTouch communication, entertainment and information functions can all be set and stored.
Screen displays, language, colours, photographs and shortcuts can be chosen, too. The system will even remember whether you prefer
100km or mpg, Fahrenheit or Celsius and an analogue or digital clock.
The Infiniti Q50 is packed with technology and features that make it stand out from the crowd. When combined with its hybrid technology, it offers an intelligent alternative.