2018 Infiniti Q60

The entry-level 2.0t Pure rear-wheel-drive model of the Q60 has an MSRP of $39,950 which is the cheapest variant in the range. To move up to the more powerful 3.0t Luxe edition, the price increases to $44,500 without additional extras. The Sport version of this trim level costs $48,300 and the fully-loaded Red Sport 400 tops the price chart at $52,000. To equip all-wheel drive functionality on the Q60, expect to pay an additional $2,000 on all trims. Custom exterior paint work also has additional costs, and the equipping of various packages will add to the overall pricing.

With various driving modes, the Q60 can perform at a comfortable and relaxed pace, or in a more dynamic, athletic way by selecting Sports mode. This allows for more power output before gear shifts, which are generally smooth and seamless at higher speeds. Lower speeds prove to be tricky from time to time for the seven-speed automatic gearbox, and it tends to lag between shifts when you need them most.

Base model variants are capable but average handlers, lacking dynamic prowess of rivals while moving up the grades to sport-suspended Q60 models gives buyers a modicum more handling efficacy. The available variable power steering is an option best avoided, however, as it provides inconsistent responses at varying speed, making it difficult to judge how quickly the Q60 will turn in when asked.

The two Sport models boast dynamic digital suspension and efficient sport brakes that add to the responsiveness and grip on the road, especially at higher speeds. Equipping all-wheel drive capabilities to any of the Q60 vehicles does improve handling traits substantially, although little is done to dampen road noise throughout the range.

For the buyer interested in power and performance, the Q60 range remains a competent figure in the coupe segment. With a range that caters to all walks of life with more fuel-efficient engines or more potent performers that sip a little less frugally, the Q60 compares well with rivals in terms of power output and expressive, distinctive design. While the cabin is well-appointed and luxurious, rivals have more to offer in terms of standard features on board and more modern styling, while the Q60's infotainment system is best described as horrible to use. The front seats are spacious on the Q60, however, trunk space is dismal, and the rear seat would be a tight fit for taller, larger passengers. The Q60 caters to the luxury coupe segment but really fails to compete against rivals like the BMW 4 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, both of which should be your first choice ahead of the Q60.

The cheapest model in the range is generally sufficient in terms of value for money. However, the majority of the advanced safety features are not available on this model at all, which is why one of the mid-level 3.0t variants would be a better option, albeit at a higher cost. The Red Sport 400 model is certainly the most impressive in terms of performance and looks, but the 3.0t Sport functions just as well and can be similarly customized at lower rates. The 3.0t Sport also offers real-world usable performance and almost all the standard specification of the Red Sport and is available with a range of package upgrades, including those incorporating advanced driver assistance features. It strikes the best balance between cost and performance and can be had with all-wheel-drive for those residing in colder climate states.

As the Q60 has been adapted from the Q50 sedan, so too has the A5 been derived from the A4 sedan. But the A5 is newer, whereas the Q60 is based on an aging architecture. And it shows, as the interior and standard technological features equipped to the Q60 are getting long in the tooth. The Audi, however, boasts a modern interior filled with high-quality materials, more space for the occupants, and crucially, a vastly more intuitive infotainment system. But where the Audi really streaks ahead is in its dynamic abilities, with a chassis striking a better balance between comfort and performance, and performing better at the limit, too. Audi also offers hotter performance variants that outperform the Q60 Red Sport 400, all while packing higher levels of technology at a comparable price. In short, then, the A5 is vastly superior to the Q60.

Lexus occupies a similar market segment to Infiniti, as a luxury spin-off froma humdrum Japanese brand. But the RC is newer than the Q60 and packs impressive levels of refinement in a luxurious cabin. It may cost $1,300 more than the Q60 Coupe, but includes higher levels of luxury and tech for the money. The Lexus infotainment system isn't particularly great, but it's lightyears ahead of the system found in the Infiniti. However, the Lexus isn't as dynamically talented as the Q60 is, and the Q60 offers a broader range of engine catering to a wider variety of buyers. It ultimately comes down to requirements and priorities. If you love luxury, the Lexus is more luxurious and refined, but if you value performance, a Q60 3.0t Sport or Red Sport 400 will give you more smiles per mile.