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Acceleration
"No opportunity yet to test '06s, but expect about 6.7 sec 0-60 mph based on
our last Q45 test. Impressive V8 punch is hobbled a bit at midrange speeds by
slight lag in throttle response and in kickdown shifts by automatic transmission.
Radar cruise control works as intended, but is most helpful on uncrowded freeways;
system in one test car would not operate in the rain."
Value
"Slow sales are evidence that Q45 tends to be overlooked among premium large
cars. It's competitive with the class leaders for power, features, and build
quality, but can't quite duplicate their comfort and control on the road. And
Infiniti, despite an enviable record of reliability and customer service, still
lacks the brand prestige of BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus."
Ride
"Solid, comfortable, but not tops in class. Base Q prone to float and bounce
on high-speed moguls, yet has more small-bump harshness than the luxury-import
norm--especially with suspension adjusted to Sport mode. New Sport model may
trade better body control for even more harshness, due to standard lower-profile
19-inch tires."
Economy
"No opportunity to measure yet, but overall averages should approximate 17-mpg
EPA city rating. Premium-grade fuel required."
Noise
"Road and wind noise low overall, if a bit high for this class. Premium package
18-inch tires rumble more than standard 17s; Sport model's 19s may be noisier
still. Engine smooth and quiet, even at high speeds."
Comfort - Front
"Comfortable seats. Generous room. Standard power tilt/telescope steering enhances
driver positioning. Outward visibility good. Headlights exeptionally bright.
Trunklid-mounted rearview camera a plus for safety and parking, but picture clarity
can be compromised by direct sunlight, raindrops, heavy dust, or salt spray."
Comfort - Rear
"Trails Lexus LS 430 for stretch-out space, but is hardly cramped. Still, some
6-footers find Q45 surprisingly cozy, with just-acceptable head and leg room.
Transmission hump and cushion shaping preclude a middle adult. Premium package
adds comfort-enhancing seat heating/cooling, power backrest recline, separate
audio and climate controls."
Controls
"Crystal-clear gauges, but needlessly complex climate/audio/navigation setup
takes time to learn and complicates simple tasks like changing radio stations.
System often misinterprets voice commands, too. Interior materials of obvious
high quality, especially leather upholstery, though still not quite up to standards
set by German rivals. "
Cargo Room
Trunk volume a tad below class average. Intrusive trunklid hinges are an embarrassment at this price level. Cabin storage plentiful.
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