After publishing initial imagery of the new Q50 on its Canadian site by mistake during the weekend, Infiniti has now released an official statement on the car that replaces the G-series sedan in its range aiming to compete against the also new Lexus IS, Cadillac ATS and BMW 3-Series compact executive saloons.
“This morning we are about to launch Infiniti on a bold new journey, a new Infiniti brand direction built on a foundation of our past and guided by a clear vision for the future,” said Infiniti president Johan de Nysschen. “And it starts right here today with the new Infiniti Q50, a vehicle that clearly crystalizes the design, performance and technology direction for a new generation of Infiniti vehicles.”
Besides the new name, the Q50 sports Infiniti’s latest and more sculpted exterior design language with inspiration said to come from the 2009 Essence concept.
The interior is also new, though, you might not notice it at a first glance, as it follows a similar styling to the outgoing model. Highlights include the new ‘Infiniti InTouch’ communications system with large dual touch-screens, while the Japanese brand also did away with the center stack clock.
Available engine options for the North American market model at launch will include a refined 328-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and new Hybrid powertrain paring a 296hp 3.5-liter V6 to a 50 kW motor and compact lithium ion battery, with a system output of 354 horsepower.
Both engines are linked to a 7-speed automatic transmission and are offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Infiniti said that other powertrains are to be added as part of global market launch rollout later in the year.
The new Q50 goes on sale worldwide this summer.
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