2018 Infiniti Q50 Preview

CARS.COM

Competes with: Acura TLX, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Looks like: The Q50 gets some racier additions — perhaps too boy-racer for some

Drivetrain: 208-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; 300-hp or 400-hp, turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6; 360-hp (combined) 3.5-liter V-6 with electric motor (Q50 Hybrid); seven-speed automatic transmission, rear- or all-wheel drive

Hits dealers: Summer 2017

At this week’s 2017 Geneva International Motor Show, Infiniti unveiled a refreshed Q50 sport sedan for the 2018 model year. Like before, the Q50 comes with turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines that culminate in the 400-hp Q50 Red Sport 400, which is the car shown in the images released this week. The Q50 goes on sale in the U.S. this summer, Infiniti says.

More 2017 Geneva Auto Show Coverage

With the refresh comes four new trim levels: Pure, Luxe, Sport and Red Sport 400. The Sport and Red Sport 400 have unique styling, Infiniti says.

Exterior

Typical of a refresh, the Q50’s changes are light, but they’re noticeable in the details — particularly on the Red Sport, which Infiniti sought to differentiate more from the rest of the lineup. Its front bumper sports reshaped creases that give the lower opening a smiling expression, while the foglights have a narrower framework that bleeds into contrasting ground effects.

The same theme appears in back, where the Red Sport has contrasting lower trim with a prominent lower diffuser. It makes for a busier, more aftermarket-modified look that some may find downright tacky. But if you thought last year’s Red Sport 400 appeared too tame, this is just what the doctor ordered.

Interior

The Q50’s redesigned steering wheel adopts a smaller hub similar to the Q60 coupe’s, but other changes are light. The car’s controversial dual-screen multimedia system remains, while the dashboard adds some stitching. Red Sport models have a unique red stitch and quilted leather seats. A Bose Performance Series premium stereo is optional.

Under the Hood

Engines carry over, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 208 hp. A turbo 3.0-liter V-6 makes either 300 hp or 400 hp depending on trim level, while the Q50 Hybrid combines a normally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6 with an electric motor for a combined 360 hp. All engines work with a seven-speed automatic transmission with rear- or all-wheel drive. Infiniti says it revised the 2018 Q50’s front and rear stabilizer bars; adaptive shock absorbers are optional.