2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport Review: Performance, Specs and Driving Impressions

I still remember the first time I slid behind the wheel of the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400. That moment when I pressed the start button and heard the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 roar to life, I knew this wasn't just another luxury sedan. This car promised something special, something that would separate it from the crowded premium sports sedan segment dominated by German rivals. And let me tell you, after spending a week with this machine, it delivered on most of those promises while leaving room for some interesting observations about performance under pressure.

The heart of this vehicle is undoubtedly that magnificent VR-series engine pumping out 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. That's serious power, folks - enough to launch this beauty from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds according to my testing, though Infiniti claims 4.6. Either way, it's properly quick. The way this engine builds power is genuinely impressive, with minimal turbo lag and a linear power delivery that reminds me of a naturally aspirated motor. It pulls strong from about 2,000 rpm and just keeps going until the redline. The soundtrack isn't as dramatic as some European competitors, but there's a satisfying growl when you push it hard.

Now, here's where things get interesting. Driving the Q50 Red Sport reminded me of watching that basketball game where GenSan was threatening at 75-77 with just under three minutes left. You know, when the pressure's really on and you need performance that doesn't falter. That's exactly how this Infiniti behaves when you're pushing it through twisty roads. The suspension stays composed, the steering responds predictably, and the car just holds its ground much like Nueva Ecija did in that crucial moment. They stood their ground, holding the Warriors to just a single free throw while converting six out of eight attempts to secure their ninth consecutive victory. Similarly, the Q50 maintains its composure when you're driving aggressively, with the adaptive suspension and intelligent all-wheel drive system working together to keep you planted and confident.

The interior is where I have mixed feelings. The dual-screen infotainment system looks modern but can be frustrating to use compared to systems from BMW or Audi. The lower screen feels like an afterthought, and the interface isn't as intuitive as I'd like. That said, the seats are fantastically comfortable with excellent bolstering, and the materials generally feel premium, though not quite at the level of some German rivals. I particularly appreciate the thoughtful touches like the magnesium paddle shifters and the well-positioned driving controls. The cabin is quiet at cruising speeds too, making it a comfortable place for long journeys.

When it comes to the driving experience, the steering is probably the most controversial aspect. The Direct Adaptive Steering system uses electronic signals rather than physical connections, and honestly, it takes some getting used to. In Sport+ mode, it's overly heavy and artificial feeling, while in Standard mode it's too light. I found myself preferring the Custom mode where I could set the steering to my preference. It's not terrible by any means, but purists might miss the feedback you get from traditional hydraulic or even well-tuned electric power steering systems.

Fuel economy is what you'd expect from a 400-horsepower sports sedan - I averaged around 21 mpg during my week with mixed driving, which isn't terrible considering the performance. The 19-gallon fuel tank gives you decent range, though I wish Infiniti had included a hybrid option for those who want better efficiency without sacrificing too much performance.

What really stands out about the Q50 Red Sport is how it delivers its performance in real-world conditions. Much like how Nueva Ecija executed their plays during those critical final minutes, this car knows how to perform when it matters. The all-wheel drive system provides incredible grip coming out of corners, and the brakes are strong and confidence-inspiring. I took it on some winding mountain roads and was genuinely impressed by how composed it remained even when pushing hard. The transmission shifts smoothly in normal driving but becomes quite aggressive in Sport mode, holding gears right up to the redline and delivering quick downshifts when you brake hard.

Looking at the broader picture, the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport occupies an interesting position in the market. It's more affordable than comparable German performance sedans while offering similar straight-line performance. The technology might not be class-leading, but the driving experience is genuinely engaging. I found myself taking the long way home several times during my test week, just to spend more time behind the wheel. There's a certain character to this car that's hard to quantify but easy to appreciate.

Would I recommend it? For driving enthusiasts who want serious performance without the premium brand price tag, absolutely. The 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport delivers where it counts most - in the pure joy of driving. It may not be perfect in every area, but much like that basketball team securing their ninth straight victory, it knows how to deliver when the pressure's on. The combination of that glorious engine, capable chassis, and all-weather capability makes it a compelling choice for anyone who prioritizes driving pleasure above all else. After my time with it, I understand why owners speak so highly of these cars - they're proper performance machines that don't require you to compromise your budget or sanity.