I’ve always been drawn to the sleek lines and powerful performance of Infiniti’s luxury sedans, and recently, I found myself torn between the Infiniti Q40 and Q50. Both promise a blend of style, comfort, and thrill, but which one truly delivers for someone like me—or you—looking for the perfect ride?
In this article, I’ll share my hands-on experience comparing these two models, breaking down their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide which sedan suits your needs. Let’s get behind the wheel and explore what makes each car tick.
Comparison Table: Infiniti Q40 vs. Infiniti Q50
| Feature | Infiniti Q40 (2015) | Infiniti Q50 (2015-2024) |
| Base Price (MSRP) | $33,950 | $37,150 (2015); $43,050 (2024 Luxe) |
| Engine Options | 3.7L V6 (328 hp) | 3.7L V6 (328 hp), 3.0L V6 Twin-Turbo (400 hp) |
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 18/25 (AWD); 19/27 (RWD) | 20/30 (RWD, 3.7L); 19/27 (AWD, 3.0L) |
| 0-60 mph | ~5.5 seconds | ~5.3 seconds (3.7L); ~4.5 seconds (3.0L) |
| Interior Volume | 99 cu. ft. passenger, 13.5 cu. ft. cargo | 100-113.5 cu. ft. passenger, 13.5 cu. ft. cargo |
| Infotainment | Single touchscreen, simpler controls | Dual-screen system, advanced connectivity |
| Safety Features | Basic airbags, stability control | Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Steering |
| Reliability Rating | 89/100 (J.D. Power Quality & Reliability for 2015 model) | 83/100 (J.D. Power Quality & Reliability for 2022 model) |
| Depreciation | Higher (37% over 3 years) | Lower, better value retention (35% over 2 years for 2023 model) |
| Drive Feel | Sporty, less refined | Refined, modern, less sporty (base) |
My First Impressions: Style and Design
When I first laid eyes on the Infiniti Q40, its classic look grabbed me. It’s got that timeless sedan vibe—smooth curves, a bold grille, and a roofline that slopes just right. It feels like a car that knows its roots, built on the legacy of the G37 (more on that later).
The Q40’s exterior screams understated elegance, perfect for someone who wants luxury without shouting it from the rooftops.
I could picture myself pulling up to a business meeting or a weekend getaway, feeling confident but not flashy.
Then there’s the Q50, which feels like it’s from a different era altogether. Its sharper lines, aggressive front fascia, and sleek LED headlights give it a modern edge.
The Q50’s design draws inspiration from Infiniti’s concept cars, like the Essence and Emerg-E, with a three-dimensional grille and a distinctive C-pillar on the coupe version. It’s bold, almost daring you to notice it.
I found myself torn—do I go for the Q40’s classic charm or the Q50’s futuristic swagger? If you’re into modern aesthetics, the Q50 might turn your head faster, but the Q40’s traditional look has a certain staying power.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Let’s talk about what makes these cars move. Both the Q40 and Q50 share a 3.7-liter V6 engine in their base models, pumping out a respectable 328 horsepower. I took a Q40 for a spin, and the acceleration was thrilling—zero to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds. The exhaust note had a growl that brought a grin to my face every time I punched the gas. It’s not subtle, though; the engine can get noisy, especially at higher revs, which some might find less refined compared to newer luxury sedans.
The Q50, however, offers more variety. While the 3.7-liter V6 is similar to the Q40’s, higher trims like the Red Sport 400 boast a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that cranks out 400 horsepower. I tested a Q50 with this engine, and it was a beast—hitting 60 mph in roughly 4.5 seconds. The power felt effortless, merging onto highways like a breeze. But even the base Q50 felt a touch more polished, thanks to its refined suspension and steering. The Q50’s Direct Adaptive Steering, available on higher trims, adjusts to your driving style, making tight corners feel like second nature. That said, some reviews I read noted the steering can feel “lifeless” compared to the Q40’s raw, connected feel. If you’re a purist who loves a sporty drive, the Q40 might edge out slightly, but the Q50’s turbo option is hard to ignore for power junkies.
Fuel Economy: Saving at the Pump?
Fuel efficiency matters, especially if you’re racking up miles. The Q40’s numbers are decent but not stellar—18/25 mpg for all-wheel drive (AWD) and 19/27 mpg for rear-wheel drive (RWD). I noticed this during a long drive; the Q40 wasn’t exactly sipping gas, and frequent fill-ups could add up if you’re commuting daily.
The Q50, on the other hand, pulls ahead here. With the 3.7-liter V6, it gets 20/30 mpg (RWD) or 19/27 mpg (AWD), and the 3.0-liter turbo models are surprisingly close despite their extra power. On a road trip, I found the Q50’s better fuel economy made a noticeable difference, especially on the highway where it stretched to nearly 580 miles per tank compared to the Q40’s 540 miles. If saving on gas or being a bit kinder to the planet is your thing, the Q50’s efficiency gives it a clear win.
Interior Comfort: Where You’ll Spend Your Time
Stepping inside the Q40, I was greeted by a cabin that felt cozy yet luxurious. The leather seats and wood accents gave it a premium feel, and the dashboard’s straightforward layout made it easy to find controls without fuss. But I noticed the legroom, especially in the rear, was a bit tight for taller passengers. If you’re hauling friends or family regularly, this could be a drawback. The seats were comfortable for long drives, though, and the user-friendly knobs for audio and climate control were a nice touch in a world obsessed with touchscreens.
The Q50’s interior, though, is a step up. It’s more spacious, with extra front and rear legroom and shoulder room, making it feel airier.
The ergonomic seats hugged me perfectly during a test drive, and the dual-touchscreen system felt like a leap into the future.
But here’s the catch: that infotainment system can be a pain. I struggled with its cluttered menus and mismatched resolutions, and I’m not alone—many owners find it frustrating to navigate. Still, the Q50’s cabin feels more modern, with ambient lighting and clever storage solutions that make it a great choice for tech lovers or anyone who values a premium vibe.
Technology: Old School vs. New School
The Q40’s tech is straightforward, which I appreciated. Its single touchscreen handles navigation and audio, and the physical knobs make adjustments a breeze. There’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which might feel dated if you’re used to seamless smartphone integration. But for someone like me who values simplicity, it gets the job done without overwhelming you with menus.
The Q50, by contrast, is a tech powerhouse—at least on paper. Its dual-screen setup offers navigation, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration, but as I mentioned, it’s not the most user-friendly. I spent way too long trying to find the right settings during my test drive. On the plus side, higher trims come with a premium Bose audio system that made my music sound crisp and immersive. The Q50 also offers voice recognition, but it’s hit-or-miss, sometimes misunderstanding my commands. If you’re a gadget geek, the Q50’s tech might excite you, but be prepared for a learning curve.
Safety: Keeping You Protected
Safety is non-negotiable, and both cars deliver, though the Q50 takes the lead. The Q40 comes with standard airbags, stability control, and traction control, which are solid but basic for a 2015 model. It lacks the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) you’d expect in newer luxury sedans. I felt secure, but I wished for more proactive features like lane departure warnings.
The Q50, especially post-2015 models, shines here. It earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the IIHS in 2015, thanks to its robust body construction and crumple zones. Features like Direct Adaptive Steering, Lane Departure Warning, Active Lane Control, and Blind Spot Warning make it a safer bet. During my drive, the Q50’s lane assist gently nudged me back when I drifted, which was reassuring on busy highways. If safety is your top priority, the Q50’s advanced tech gives you peace of mind the Q40 can’t match.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Q40’s handling is where it shines. Its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension made it feel agile, almost like a sports car disguised as a sedan. I took it through some winding roads, and it hugged corners with confidence. However, the ride can feel stiff over bumps, which might bother you if you prioritize comfort over sportiness.
The Q50, meanwhile, offers a more balanced ride. Its advanced steering and chassis make it smooth on highways and capable on twisty roads, though the base model feels less sporty than the Q40. The Red Sport 400 trim, however, dials up the excitement with sharper handling. I found the Q50’s ride more refined overall, soaking up road imperfections better than the Q40. If you want a blend of comfort and agility, the Q50 feels more versatile.
Pricing and Value
Price is where things get interesting. The 2015 Q40 started at $33,950, making it a steal for a luxury sedan with its performance. Used models now range around $9,425, but depreciation is steep—about 37% over three years. I saw this firsthand when checking trade-in values; the Q40 doesn’t hold its value as well as some rivals.
The Q50, starting at $37,150 in 2015 and $43,050 for the 2024 Luxe trim, is pricier upfront. However, it retains value better (losing around 35% over 2 years for a 2023 model), which could save you money if you plan to sell later. Certified pre-owned (CPO) Q50s often come with extended warranties, which gave me confidence when considering a used one. For budget-conscious buyers, the Q40’s lower price is tempting, but the Q50’s modern features and better resale value make it a smarter long-term investment.
Reliability: Can You Trust These Cars?
The Q40’s reliability is a strong point, earning an 89/100 for Quality & Reliability from J.D. Power for the 2015 model. I spoke to a friend who owned a 2015 Q40, and he raved about its durability, with minimal issues even after 75,000 miles. The 3.7-liter V6 is a proven engine, and the lack of complex tech reduces potential failure points.
The Q50’s reliability is solid but less stellar, earning an 83/100 for Quality & Reliability from J.D. Power for the 2022 model. The twin-turbo engine and advanced tech, like the dual-screen system, can be finicky, according to some owners. I read forum posts about software glitches and navigation issues, which gave me pause. If you want a car that’s tried and true, the Q40 feels safer, but the Q50’s issues are often covered under warranty, especially for CPO models.
Pros and Cons: Breaking It Down
Infiniti Q40 Pros
- Affordable Price: Lower starting MSRP and used prices make it a budget-friendly luxury option.
- Sporty Handling: Agile and fun to drive, especially on winding roads.
- Reliable Engine: The 3.7-liter V6 is durable with a strong track record.
- Simple Tech: User-friendly controls appeal to those who dislike complex systems.
- Classic Design: Timeless look that still turns heads.
Infiniti Q40 Cons
- Dated Interior: Less spacious and lacks modern tech like Apple CarPlay.
- Poor Fuel Economy: 18/25 mpg (AWD) lags behind competitors.
- High Depreciation: Loses value quickly, impacting resale.
- Limited Features: No advanced safety systems or sport package options.
- Stiff Ride: Can feel harsh over rough roads.
Infiniti Q50 Pros
- Powerful Engine Options: 3.0-liter twin-turbo delivers 400 hp in higher trims.1
- Better Fuel Economy: Up to 20/30 mpg saves money at the pump.
- Modern Design: Sleek, aggressive styling with LED lighting.
- Advanced Safety: Lane assist, adaptive steering, and more enhance safety.
- Spacious Cabin: More legroom and premium feel for all passengers.
Infiniti Q50 Cons
- Complex Infotainment: Dual-screen system is clunky and hard to navigate.
- Higher Price: More expensive upfront and even used models cost more.
- Less Sporty Base Model: Steering can feel numb compared to Q40.
- Tech Reliability: Software glitches reported by some owners.
- Learning Curve: Advanced features can overwhelm less tech-savvy drivers.
My Test Drive Tales
I’ll never forget my test drive of the Q40. The moment I hit the gas, the V6 roared to life, and I felt like I was driving a car built for enthusiasts. It handled corners like a champ, but the stiff suspension made every pothole noticeable. The cabin was cozy, but my 6-foot friend in the back complained about legroom. It’s a car that feels raw and engaging, perfect for someone who loves driving for the sake of driving.
The Q50, though, was a different beast. The Red Sport 400 trim I drove was a rocket, merging onto the freeway with ease. The interior felt like a step into the future, but I fumbled with the dual screens more than I’d like to admit. The smoother ride and extra space made it more practical for daily life, but I missed the Q40’s raw edge. Your choice might come down to whether you prioritize fun or refinement.
Who Should Buy Each Car?
The Q40 is for drivers like me who love a classic, no-frills sports sedan. It’s ideal if you’re on a budget, want proven reliability, and don’t need the latest tech. It’s a great pick for enthusiasts who enjoy modding, thanks to its shared G37 platform and active community.
The Q50 suits those who want a modern luxury sedan with cutting-edge features and better efficiency. It’s perfect for tech lovers, families needing space, or anyone who values safety and resale value. If you’re eyeing a higher trim for that 400-hp turbo, the Q50 is a thrill worth the price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, the Q40 and Q50 are distinct models. The Q40 is essentially a rebadged G37, while the Q50 is its successor with updated design, tech, and engine options.
Yes, the Q40 is highly reliable, with an 89/100 rating for Quality & Reliability from J.D. Power for the 2015 model, thanks to its proven 3.7-liter V6 and simpler tech.
The Q50 replaced the Q40, which was discontinued after 2015. The Q50 offers modern features and improved performance.
Yes, the Q40 is a rebadged Infiniti G37, carrying the same design and 3.7-liter V6 engine with minor updates for 2015.
Conclusion: Which Sedan Wins Your Heart?
After spending time with both the Infiniti Q40 and Q50, I’m left with a tough choice, and you might feel the same. The Q40 won me over with its raw, sporty charm and wallet-friendly price, perfect if you love a classic drive and don’t need the latest gadgets. But the Q50’s modern design, powerful turbo option, and better efficiency make it a compelling pick for a refined, future-ready ride.
Your decision hinges on what you value—raw fun or modern luxury. Test drive both, and let your heart (and budget) guide you to the perfect Infiniti sedan.
