The Red Sport 400 houses the most powerful engine in the Q50 lineup—the new 3.0 L twin-turbo V6. This powerplant with direct fuel injection produces a max of 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The engine also has some very advanced features such as optical turbo speed sensor, high capacity air-to-water intercoolers with twin coolant pump, and electronic wastegate actuator.
Because of the way the Red Sport is tuned, the engine is able to unleash its furious peak torque from just 1,600 rpm. A powerful force propels you to your destination mighty fast for an unlimited rush.
The 7-speed automatic transmission is charged with the responsibility of carrying all this power to the wheels. Driver engagement is enhanced by the solid magnesium paddle shifters commanding over manual shift mode with Downshift Rev Matching.
Even though this is one powerful car, the Red Sport still delivers a respectable 22 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for its class.
The Red Sport is really something special. The red “S” exterior badges signify that this is a vehicle that will perform through its intense power and exceptional styling to deliver “a heightened driving experience.”
On the AWD model, Intelligent All-Wheel Drive works together with more aggressive Sport Brakes to provide a safer and closer road feeling to the drive. It’s a ride that powers a sense of pride and driver respect for a true performance vehicle.
The double-arch grille is prominently placed front-and-center, giving a distinguished hallmark facade. The front and rear are designed such that wind turbulence is reduced at higher speeds.
The 19-inch aluminum-alloy staggered sport wheels with an exclusive Red Sport 400 design hold onto the road and smoothly roll over the bumps. The lightweight construction reduces unwanted weight while contributing to quicker turn-ins. When they are let loose, the car runs like a deer.
Inside this Infiniti there is a splendid array of marvellous features. Leather-appointed 8-way sport type driver’s seats with power lumbar support, power torso support, and manual thigh extension make for great comfort.
The leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel is positioned just to the left of the Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control surrounded by Kacchu aluminum interior trim. The audio, cruise control, and phone functions can also be controlled from the buttons found on the steering wheel.
The power tilt and telescopic steering column with memory allows for a comfortable driving position and easy entry and exit, while the power sliding/tinted glass moonroof with one-touch open/close provide a grand view.
Auto-dimming inside and outside mirrors add to the safety while 60/40 split-folding rear seats accommodate flexible passenger and cargo arrangements.
Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System allows the driver to quickly connect compatible phones to the car and maintain communication with minimal distraction. The SiriusXM Satellite Radio feeding “Infiniti Studio on Wheels by Bose” 14-speaker system sends forth some of the most beautiful music on ribbons of sweet sound. As well voice recognition is supported for audio commands, SMS text, and vehicle information system.
The Q50 Red Sport can be equipped with numerous safety features—Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System, Tire Pressure Monitor System, Vehicle Security System, and Vehicle Immobilizer System are standard.
Optional features include Blind Spot Warning and Intervention, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Forward Emergency Braking, Backup Collision Intervention, Front/Rear Sonar sensors, Around View Monitor with moving object detection, and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention. These features are covered by the $2,250 Driver Assist Package and the $1,850 Technology Package.
Interior and exterior welcome lighting have aesthetic value as well as practicality. Then, just push the engine start/stop button and begin the adventure.
The Q50 wears a sleek exterior, and performs with the air and sophistication appropriate for a luxury vehicle. You will be treated gently in the ride, but the engine will roar from an abundance of torque. It lets the whole outside world know all this performance while the inside is as quiet as a Pharaoh’s sarcophagus.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the 2016 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 starts at $47,950. Add $2,000 if AWD is desired.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or at [email protected]
