Infiniti G37 Sedan vs. Infiniti Q50: A Personal Journey Through Two Luxury Sedans

I’ve always been drawn to cars that blend performance with luxury, and Infiniti’s G37 Sedan and Q50 have long caught my eye. Both promise thrilling drives and upscale interiors, but which one truly delivers? In this article, I’ll take you through my experience comparing these two sedans, breaking down their pros and cons, key features, and what it’s like to live with them.

From engine power to infotainment quirks, I’ll share an analytical yet relatable perspective to help you decide which Infiniti suits your style.

Comparison Table: Infiniti G37 Sedan vs. Infiniti Q50

My First Impressions: Stepping Into the G37 and Q50

When I first slid into the driver’s seat of a 2013 Infiniti G37 Sedan, it felt like slipping on a well-worn leather jacket—comfortable, familiar, and ready for action.

The cabin exuded a no-nonsense luxury, with soft leather seats and a straightforward dashboard layout. A few years later, I tested a 2018 Q50, and it was a different vibe—sleeker, more modern, but almost too polished, like a smartphone on wheels.

Both cars screamed Infiniti’s sporty DNA, but their approaches to performance and comfort couldn’t be more distinct. The G37, produced from 2009 to 2013, was the last of Infiniti’s G-series sedans before the Q50 took over in 2014.

The Q50, still in production as of 2025, evolved from the G37’s platform but introduced modern tech and a new design language.

My goal was to uncover which car offers the better balance of thrill, practicality, and value for someone like you, looking for a luxury sedan that doesn’t break the bank.

Engine Performance: Power Under the Hood

Let’s talk engines, because that’s where these cars flex their muscles. The G37 Sedan comes with a 3.7L V6 (VQ37VHR), pumping out 328 to 330 horsepower depending on the model year. It’s naturally aspirated, meaning no turbo lag—just raw, linear power.

I remember flooring it on a highway on-ramp; the G37 surged forward with a throaty growl, hitting 60 mph in about 5.4 seconds. It felt alive, like the car was egging me on to push harder. The Q50, on the other hand, has a more varied engine lineup.

Early models (2014-2015) carried over the G37’s 3.7L V6, but from 2016 onward, most trims got a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (VR30DDTT) with 300 horsepower in base form or 400 horsepower in the Red Sport 400. I drove a 2018 Q50 3.0t, and the turbo kick was undeniable—quicker off the line than the G37, especially in Sport mode. However, the Red Sport 400, which I tested briefly, was a beast, shaving the 0-60 time to around 5.0 seconds.

But there’s a catch: the turbo engine’s complexity worried me. More hoses, more sensors, more to go wrong. The G37’s simpler setup felt like a safer bet for long-term ownership.

Fuel economy leans in the Q50’s favor. The G37 averages about 20 MPG combined, while the Q50’s turbo V6 hits 23 MPG, with a highway range of 580 miles compared to the G37’s 480 miles. If you’re commuting long distances, those extra miles add up.

Still, the Q50 requires premium unleaded, which might sting at the pump.

Driving Dynamics: The Feel of the Road

Driving the G37 is like dancing with a partner who knows your every move. Its hydraulic steering is heavy and precise, giving you a direct connection to the road. I took it through some twisty backroads, and the car hugged corners with confidence, the rear-wheel-drive setup (or AWD in the x models) feeling planted yet playful.

The suspension, especially in Sport trims, is firm but not punishing, striking a balance between sporty and comfortable. The Q50, however, left me conflicted. Its standard electronic steering feels light—almost too light—at low speeds, which makes parking a breeze but sacrifices some feedback.

Infiniti’s Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS), available on higher trims, is a steer-by-wire system that feels like driving a video game. I tried it on a 2019 Q50, and while it smoothed out minor road imperfections, it detached me from the driving experience. Some love it for its techy precision, but I missed the G37’s tactile response.

The Q50’s suspension is softer, prioritizing comfort over corner-carving agility, which might suit you if long drives are your thing. One area where the Q50 shines is road noise. Its cabin is quieter than the G37’s, thanks to better sound insulation.

I noticed this on a highway stretch—the Q50 felt like a cocoon, while the G37 let in more tire and wind noise. If you value a serene ride, the Q50 has an edge.

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Interior and Comfort: Where You Spend Your Time

Inside, the G37 feels like a time capsule of early 2010s luxury. The leather seats are supportive, though the foam is firmer than I’d like for long trips. Front headroom is decent, but rear passengers might feel cramped, especially taller folks.

The dashboard is simple, with a single LCD screen for navigation and audio. I found it intuitive—buttons and knobs where you expect them, no fuss. But the materials, while high-quality for the time, look dated next to newer rivals.

The Q50’s interior is a step up in modernity. Its dual LCD screens—one for navigation, one for audio and climate—look impressive at first, but I found the interface clunky. Switching between menus felt like wrestling with an outdated tablet.

The seats, though, are a highlight. They’re softer, with memory foam-like cushioning, and the thigh extenders on Sport models kept my legs happy on a three-hour drive. The Q50 also offers more interior volume, with extra legroom and shoulder room front and rear.

If you’re hauling passengers, they’ll thank you for the extra space. Cargo space is identical in both cars at 13.5 cubic feet, enough for a weekend’s worth of luggage.

Technology and Features: Old School vs. New School

The G37’s tech is straightforward. You get a solid Bose audio system, optional navigation, and a backup camera in higher trims. It’s not cutting-edge, but it works without overwhelming you.

I liked the analog clock on the dash—a quirky touch of class. Bluetooth and satellite radio were standard in later models, making it practical for daily use. The Q50, by contrast, is tech-heavy.

Its dual-screen InTouch system aims to impress, but I found it distracting. The low-resolution navigation screen looked out of place in a modern luxury car, and the touchscreen’s lag frustrated me.

Higher trims offer features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 16-speaker Bose system, which sounded crisp but not leaps better than the G37’s.

The Q50’s tech feels ambitious but unpolished, like Infiniti tried to cram in too much without perfecting it.

Reliability and Maintenance: What’s the Long-Term Cost?

Owning a luxury sedan isn’t just about the drive—it’s about keeping it on the road. The G37 has a strong reputation for reliability. Its naturally aspirated V6 is a proven workhorse, and the 7-speed automatic transmission is smooth and durable.

I spoke with a friend who’s owned a 2012 G37 for over a decade with minimal issues, though he mentioned oil galley gasket problems in pre-2012 models. Stick to 2012 or newer to avoid that headache. The Q50’s reliability is more mixed.

Early models (2014-2015) with the 3.7L V6 are solid, sharing the G37’s powertrain. But the twin-turbo V6 introduced in 2016 brings more complexity. Forums mention occasional turbo-related issues, like oil consumption in some early units, though Infiniti seems to have ironed these out by 2018.

Maintenance costs for the Q50 are higher due to its premium fuel requirement and intricate electronics. If you’re buying used, a certified pre-owned Q50 with a warranty might ease your mind.

Pros and Cons: Breaking It Down

Infiniti G37 Sedan

Pros:

• Engaging Drive: Hydraulic steering and a responsive V6 make it a driver’s car.
• Reliability: Simpler mechanics mean fewer headaches long-term.
• Affordable Used: Lower price range for 1-5-year-old models, often under $20,000.
• Sporty Styling: Timeless design that still turns heads.
• Intuitive Controls: Easy-to-use dashboard and infotainment.

Cons:

• Dated Interior: Materials and tech feel old compared to modern rivals.
• Cramped Rear: Less legroom and headroom for passengers.
• Fuel Economy: 20 MPG combined lags behind competitors.
• Limited Features: Lacks advanced safety tech like adaptive cruise control.
• Noise: More road and wind noise than the Q50.

Infiniti Q50

Pros:

• Modern Design: Sleek exterior and updated interior aesthetics.
• Spacious Cabin: More legroom and shoulder room for passengers.
• Fuel Efficiency: 23 MPG combined and longer highway range.
• Powerful Options: Red Sport 400’s 400 hp is a thrill.
• Quiet Ride: Better sound insulation for a refined experience.

Cons:

• Complex Infotainment: Dual screens are clunky and distracting.
• Numb Steering: Electronic steering (especially DAS) feels disconnected.
• Higher Cost: Newer models start at $43,050, pricier used options.
• Reliability Concerns: Turbo engine and electronics add complexity.
• Less Engaging: Softer suspension prioritizes comfort over sportiness.

My Test Drive Tales: Real-World Experiences

I’ll never forget my first spin in a 2011 G37x. It was a snowy day, and the AWD system gripped the road like a champ. The car felt like an extension of me, responding to every input with precision.

But the rear seat was a squeeze for my 6-foot friend, and the infotainment, while functional, lacked the pizzazz of newer systems. The Q50, tested in 2019, was a different story. Its AWD model handled a rainy highway with ease, and the cabin’s quietness was a pleasant surprise.

But the steering felt artificial, and I fumbled with the touchscreens more than I’d like. The Red Sport 400, though, was a revelation—its power made me grin like a kid, but I couldn’t shake the worry about long-term maintenance.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re like me and crave a car that feels raw and engaging, the G37 is hard to beat, especially on a budget. Its lower price point and proven reliability make it a smart pick for enthusiasts who don’t need the latest tech. But if you want a more refined, modern ride with better fuel economy and a roomier cabin, the Q50 is the way to go—just be ready for higher costs and potential maintenance quirks.

Cost and Value: Bang for Your Buck

The G37’s starting MSRP in 2013 was around $32,850, and used models (2012-2013) can be found for $15,000-$20,000 today. The Q50, with a 2024 starting price of $43,050, is pricier, and used 2016+ models with the turbo engine often hover around $25,000-$30,000. The G37’s lower cost and simpler mechanics make it a better value for budget-conscious buyers, while the Q50’s modern features justify its premium if you prioritize comfort and tech.

Styling: Looks That Last

The G37’s design is classic Infiniti—low, sleek, with a muscular stance. Its double-arch grille and sharp lines still look sharp, though the interior’s dated plastics betray its age. The Q50, inspired by Infiniti’s 2009 Essence concept, has a bolder grille and smoother curves.

I found its exterior more eye-catching, but the G37’s timeless appeal holds its own. Inside, the Q50’s dual screens and cleaner lines feel more contemporary, even if the execution isn’t perfect.

Ownership Experience: What Owners Say

Scouring forums like Inf also, I found G37 owners raving about its reliability and driving feel. One user called their 2012 G37 “a tank that still handles like a sports car.” Q50 owners, especially those with 2016+ models, love the power but gripe about infotainment glitches and turbo maintenance.

A 2018 Q50 owner on Reddit mentioned swapping out run-flat tires to improve the ride, a common mod. Both cars have loyal fans, but the G37 seems to win hearts for its simplicity.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

As I reflect on my time with the Infiniti G37 Sedan and Q50, I’m torn. The G37’s raw, driver-focused spirit won me over with its simplicity and value, but the Q50’s modern flair and comfort are hard to ignore. For you, the choice hinges on what you value most: a budget-friendly, engaging ride or a tech-laden, refined cruiser.

Test drive both, feel the steering, and listen to the engine’s roar. Whichever you pick, Infiniti’s blend of luxury and performance won’t disappoint.