2019 INFINITI Q50 vs 2018 INFINITI Q50 | What’s the Difference?

Serving Atlanta, Duluth, and Lawrenceville, GA

Every new model year, buyers take some time to see what upgrades or design changes have been made to models currently on their shopping shortlist. INFINITI has made a few changes to the Q50 model, some of them a bit aesthetic and others having to do with standard high-tech. This smallish luxury sedan will appeal to those who want nimble handling, a roomy interior without the overall huge vehicle dimensions, and a powertrain that actually packs a wallop.

The 2019 INFINITI Q50 sees just the right adjustments while keeping the major boxes checked. It’s still affordable, can be customized via options and packages, and is on par with other similarly priced sedans in terms of interior amenities and materials quality.

Powertrain and Performance

Both the 2018 and 2019 Q50 come with a standard engine size on the lower trim. This turbocharged 2.0L engine produces a total of 208 horsepower, and it’s paired to a seven-speed shiftable automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. The uplevel 3.0t trim gets a turbocharged 3.0L engine rated at 300 horsepower. The Red Sport model has a more powerful V6 for 2018, rated at 400 horsepower. Acceleration is superb, and the transmission gear ranges are just fine for highway cruising. Buyers will want to check out the various trim styles because there are several drivetrains available. The Q50 can be ordered with all-wheel drive regardless of engine.

Standard Features and Package Options

The base 2018 2.0t Pure model is lavishly appointed. Standard features include keyless entry and ignition, LED headlights and foglights, selectable drive modes, power-adjustable front seats, simulated leather upholstery, and automatic dual-zone climate control. The uplevel trims add on 19-inch wheels, performance tires, leather upholstery, and a sunroof. On the technology front, the 2018 models come with dual screen displays, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio. The 2019 models are similarly equipped, but the forward control panel has been slightly altered, and the Red Sport version has slightly different contrast stitching. The Essential package is offered only on the 3.0t Luxe model, and the All Weather package is available on the 3.0t Luxe and the Red Sport versions.

Safety

Both the 2018 and 2019 model year Q50 come with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, a full set of airbags, and four-wheel ABS. For 2018, however, the full suite of driver aids is standard only on the Red Sport version. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on the lower trims as stand-alone options. However, the 2019 models boast standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking across the entire trim lineup. Both the 2018 and 2019 models scored top marks for overall impact protection as well as for side-impact and rear crash protection.

It’s changed just a bit for 2019, but overall, the INFINITI Q50 remains a solid pick in its segment. You’ll want to examine both model years closely and take them for a test drive to see how they compare inside and out. Contact INFINITI of Gwinnett today to set up your personal inspection of this small luxury sedan.

All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.