By: Krish Persaud
October 15, 2023
Long Island, New York – The 2023 Infiniti Q50 Black Opal is a sporty luxury sedan that brings together a compelling blend of performance, style, and technology. With a focus on power and precision, this model offers an exhilarating driving experience that appeals to many Infiniti purists. We reached out to our friends at Nissan Canada Inc, and they happily handed over the keys for us to put this to the test.
At the heart of the Q50 Black Opal is a 3.0-liter V6 engine, twin-turbocharged to produce a robust 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is paired with a responsive 7-speed automatic transmission. The acceleration is truly impressive, propelling the Q50 from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds. The engine delivers a harmonious blend of power and refinement, and the exhaust note emits a sporty growl that perfectly complements the car’s aggressive demeanor.
In the Q50 Black Opal we’re testing, the Direct Adaptive Steering system offers precise control, allowing drivers to customize the steering feel to their preference. This system provides excellent road feedback and handling, but it’s important to note that the standard suspension setup may feel stiff for those who prioritize a more comfortable ride.
When it comes to handling, the Q50 Black Opal truly excels. Its steering is incredibly responsive and delivers a level of precision that enthusiasts will greatly appreciate. Through corners, the car maintains composure with minimal body roll, thanks to the exceptional grip from the wide tires. Further enhancing the overall driving experience, the available Dynamic Digital Suspension with adjustable damping not only ensures a comfortable ride but also contributes to impressive handling prowess. Whether cruising on the highway or tackling twisty backroads, the Q50 Black Opal delivers a perfectly balanced and engaging driving experience.
Infiniti has a history of producing vehicles with distinctive styling, and the Q50 Black Opal is no exception. Its bold and aggressive design features a distinctive double-arch grille, LED headlights, and a sculpted hood. The Black Opal trim adds unique 19-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and sporty accents. Notably, the Opal Metallic paint colour adds to the allure. It appears black in some lighting conditions but can shift to dark green or dark purple depending on the angle and lighting, giving the Q50 Black Opal an added layer of visual intrigue.
Inside the cabin, the Q50 offers a comfortable and luxurious environment. The materials used are of high quality, with leather upholstery and real wood trim available in various finishes. The dual-screen infotainment system is functional and user-friendly, providing access to navigation, audio controls, and various vehicle settings. However, it falls slightly behind some rivals in terms of modernity and responsiveness. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, making it easy to integrate your smartphone for seamless connectivity. However, some users might find the system’s interface a bit dated compared to the more intuitive and visually appealing setups offered by competitors.
The 2023 Q50 Black Opal comes with a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. These technologies contribute to a safer driving experience, although some may find the adaptive cruise control system to be overly cautious in its interventions.
The front seats of the Q50 Black Opal are well-bolstered and comfortable, providing good support during spirited driving. However, rear-seat passengers may find the legroom somewhat limited, especially if taller individuals are seated up front. The trunk offers adequate cargo space (500 litres) for a vehicle in this class, but it may not be sufficient for those who require ample storage capacity.
The Q50 Black Opal offers competitive fuel economy ratings with city, highway, and combined figures of 12.5 L/100km, 9.3 L/100km, and 11.1 L/100km, respectively. It’s worth noting that during our 3,000 km road trip, the Q50 Black Opal impressed with an observed fuel consumption rate of 8.5 L/100km, with over 90% of our drive taking place on the highway.
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 offer a range of options to suit different budgets. The entry-level PURE model starts at $45,195 for the 300-hp version. Stepping up to the mid-range Signature Edition trim will set you back $56,895. At the top of the lineup, the Black Opal Edition with the 400-hp unit commands the highest price, with an as-tested price of $65,795.
The 2023 Infiniti Q50 Black Opal is an alluring choice for those seeking a luxury sport sedan that combines power, style, and advanced technology. Its potent engine, engaging driving dynamics, and distinctive design make it a standout in its class. While there are some areas where it may not excel as much as its competitors, such as interior technology and rear-seat space, it’s worth noting that for around a similar price point, you could also consider the 2023 Acura TLX Type S. However, you wouldn’t have the same power gains. If you’re in the market for a luxury sport sedan, the Q50 Black Opal is worth serious consideration.
