The Q45 performs like a thoroughbred. Infiniti's 4.1-liter engine gives the Q45 stellar performance. Based on the same powerplant as the Infiniti Indy V8 used in the Indy Racing League cars, it generates 266 horsepower and 278 foot-pounds of torque. It features variable valve timing, which adjusts valve opening and closing according to engine speed and load. Variable valve timing is a key element in the engine's efficiency and is a proven technology.Performance has always been an Infiniti trait and there's lots of power here. Although peak torque is at a relatively high 4000 rpm, there is usable torque low in the power range and that means great acceleration at lower speeds. Throttle response is instant, whether you're moving away from a stoplight, making a tight freeway merge or passing. The Q45 accelerates from 0-60 mph in the mid 7-second range. That's quick. It also delivers responsible fuel economy, netting an EPA rating of 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway.
This V8 is among the smoothest and most satisfying around today, easily holding its own with Lexus and BMW offerings and perhaps even a touch smoother and quieter than the Mercedes-Benz V8s. The Q45 has always been more of a driver's car than the Lexus LS 400 and that tradition continues. The V8 drives the rear wheels through a four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission; smooth, precise shifts are based on speed and load. On the road, the feeling is of a seamless flow of power with no hesitation or jerkiness between shifts. A viscous limited-slip differential with traction control reduces wheelspin in slippery conditions.
The MacPherson strut front suspension was designed to provide good handling without compromising on that luxury car feel. In the rear, the Q45 has a multi-link arrangement designed to keep more tire contact patch on the road, and more patch means more grip. Anti-dive and anti-squat characteristics mean improved grip under hard braking and acceleration.
The Q45t (Touring Package) has a slightly more aggressive suspension tune for a sportier feel. Still, the ride quality is excellent.
This car always feels firmly planted. It's stable as a freight train in a straight line, controlled in turns. The Q45 feels very nimble for a large luxury car. Steering is razor sharp, quick and precise. The suspension is well damped, isolating occupants from poorly maintained road surfaces. But it doesn't float like some big luxury cars that use mushy suspensions to make up for poor chassis engineering. You won't have any trouble keeping up with BMWs in a Q.
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