Q50’s cool, calm and dis-connected

ROAD TEST – INFINITI Q50

SOUNDS like a relaxing, stress-free way to drive.

A steering system whereby there’s no physical contact between the steering wheel and the car’s front wheels so you don’t feel bumps in the road.

It’s actually called Direct Adaptive Steering and has been introduced by Nissan’s luxury division Infiniti into the Q50 sports saloon.

It uses digital technology to link the steering wheel and wheels, resulting in a faster connection with the road and reducing vibrations.

It’s also a multi-award winner, so there must be a lot of folk out there who really appreciate it – I just don’t happen to be one of them.

To be fair, DAS is something you become more accustomed to with time. I just don’t find it very engaging, nor does it feel particularly connected with the road.

Infiniti Q50 Direct Adaptive Steering

And that’s a shame because the Q50 is a car of considerable ability, that stands out from the pack and offers a genuine alternative to the premium German brands.

Until the tested 2.0T variant arrived in late autumn Infiniti was lacking a petrol powered Q50 other than the 3.5-litre V6 of the hybrid, so this model was a must for the brand.

The lightweight 1,991cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine is certainly a good one.

It develops 211PS, transmitted to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox and can return an official 43.5 miles per gallon, though my predominantly urban driving didn’t match that figure.

Performance is handy at 0-62 in 7.2 seconds with a potential top speed of 152mph and there are driver settings for Standard, Personal, Sport and Snow.

With the longest wheelbase in its area of the market, the Q50 has plenty of room for adult passengers and rear kneeroom is among the best.

That said, there may be five seatbelts but you wouldn’t want to be piggy in the middle as the centre rear position is perched and uncomfortable.

The boot is large though and the 60/40 split rear seat has access to the boot via the centre armrest.

On the road the Q50 looks attractive with its coupe-like styling and boasts road-holding to match, making it a tempting proposition for drivers who want to stand out from the crowd.