Infiniti’s second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering is a steer-by-wire system that supports the driver by providing smooth operation, more direct steering responses and easy manoeuvrability. Direct Adaptive Steering is a precursor to future steering systems that will form a key building block on the way to achieving fully-autonomous driving.

The system does away with mechanically linked parts, instead employing digital components to improve steering reactions and feedback. The electronic connection between components means reactions to driver input are instantaneous.

The new Direct Adaptive Steering system provides customization options accessed through the Drive Mode Selector. Using controls on the centre console, the Drive Mode Selector allows the steering response to be selected from six available options: ‘Personal’, ‘Standard’, ‘Snow’, ‘Eco’, ‘Sport’, and ‘Sport+’. Standard mode is more akin to that of a conventional steering system.

The Q50 is the first Infiniti model to benefit from two generations of Direct Adaptive Steering, both in 2013, when the world’s first digital steering system was introduced, and in 2016, when an upgraded version was made available. The upgraded Direct Adaptive Steering system followed consultation with Q50 customers around the world, and after more than 625,000 miles of on-road testing.

Drive Assist Technologies’ Active Lane Control system works with Direct Adaptive Steering to maximize safety on highways, activating automatically above 70 km/h (43.5 mph). It uses a camera system to detect the Q50’s position on the road and is able to prevent the Q50 from straying from its lane. It assumes momentary control of the Direct Adaptive Steering system to help the driver avoid a potential collision.

Adaptive digital suspension

In addition to Drive Assist Technologies driver support technologies such as Direct Adaptive Steering, innovative engine, chassis and drivetrain technologies enable the Q50 sports sedan to deliver an empowering and rewarding drive.

The Q50 can be equipped with the award-winning 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine from the new ‘VR’ powertrain family. The new engine offers increased power and torque while maintaining high levels of efficiency, and has been named one of Ward’s ‘10 Best Engines’ for 2017 – one of the highest global accolades in engine technology development.

Lean fuel economy

For the Red Sport 400 model grade, the high-output version of the power unit delivers 400 hp (298 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 475 Nm (350 lb-ft) maximum torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm. The 300 hp (224 kW) version delivers peak power at 6,400 rpm, producing 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) torque across a wide 1,600-5,200 rpm range.

Additional Q50 powertrain options include a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline unit. The 2.0-liter gasoline engines produce 208 hp at 5,500 rpm, with 350 Nm peak torque from 1,250 rpm.

The final powertrain option, powering the Hybrid Blue Sport model grade, is Infiniti’s Direct Response Hybrid system, featuring a 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC aluminium-alloy V6 and a compact laminated lithium-ion battery. The system’s V6 is rated at 302 hp and 350 Nm of torque, while the advanced 50 kW electric motor is rated at 67 hp and 290 Nm of torque. The hybrid system’s combined power output of 360 hp provides strong acceleration and lean fuel economy.

As standard, Q50 models equipped with the 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine feature Infiniti’s Rack Electronic Power Steering, for a linear and in-control driving experience that can also be tuned through the Drive Mode Selector. 2.0-liter Q50 models are equipped with a vehicle speed-sensitive hydraulic electronic rack-and-pinion power steering system as standard.

In 2016, the Q50 was the first Infiniti model to feature Dynamic Digital Suspension, combining enhanced ride comfort with direct handling responses and agility. Dynamic Digital Suspension is aided by new electronic and adaptive dampers, and – as with Direct Adaptive Steering – drivers can customize the settings through the Drive Mode Select. As standard, the Q50 features independent multi-link suspension, now providing an improved balance between confident handling and a comfortable ride. The new Q50 benefits from revised front and rear stabilizer bars, improving the ability of the chassis to resist lateral suspension movement, resulting in a flatter ride and greater agility during cornering.

Infiniti Oman had recently launched QX80 which offers a unique combination of inspired design and performance and stands as a luxury performing SUV class.

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