Infiniti Q60 (2017)

The Q60's exterior dimensions and striking silhouette assert its credentials as a powerful sports coupe. Its aggressive stance gives a greater impression of stability and in-control driving potential, while its lower center of gravity has a positive overall effect on driving dynamics.

The Infiniti Q60 features newly-designed 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels as standard. In certain markets, 'Red Sport 400' models - more performance-oriented versions of the car - have wider wheels and tires at the rear, contributing to a more aggressive stance while also improving handling and grip with a higher capacity for lateral G-forces. The wheel gaps - the spaces between tires and wheel arches - are tighter than ever, further lowering the visual volume of the car and giving it a low, powerful stance.

Aerodynamic efficiency was a major consideration for Infiniti's design and engineering teams. Crucial for the Q60's drag coefficient of just 0.28 was the car's carefully-wrought exterior design. In particular, vents in the front fenders direct air from the engine bay while the Q60's hood is also shaped to reduce drag.

Q60 models with the new V6 engine feature an Active Grille Shutter to balance the engine's cooling requirements with the goal of enhancing aerodynamic efficiency. Under normal use, the shutter remains closed, opening when greater performance is required. The door-mounted side mirrors accentuate the Q60's low stance and sleek coupe looks, and are designed to improve the flow of air down the flanks of the vehicle, while maintaining a wide angle of rear visibility for the driver.

The Infiniti Q60 is available in 10 exterior colors, with 'Dynamic Sunstone Red' and 'Solar Mica' completely new to the Infiniti range. Exclusive to Dynamic Sunstone Red, 'color clear coat' helps protect the unique finish of the paint, while also contributing to the depth of gloss, for greater visual impact.

A tailored approach for a driver-centric interior

Sophisticated craftsmanship characterizes the spacious and beautifully appointed interiors across the Infiniti range, following the brand's 'driver-centric, passenger-minded' approach to advanced cabin architecture. Infiniti designers have used this architecture to give each occupant their own clearly defined space within the passenger compartment.

In the front of the cabin, the Q60's design emphasizes the dashboard's focus on the driver, with the center console housing twin touchscreens (8-inch upper and 7-inch lower) as part of the InTouch central control system - the latest generation of the company's infotainment technology. The touchscreen capabilities of both screens mean Infiniti's design teams have been able to minimize the number of buttons in the cabin, for a neat, uncluttered appearance.

The interior trim of the Q60 includes high-end accents and bold, modern-looking materials. Premium models are available in white leather with a glass fiber accent. Darker interior colors are matched with black wood, aluminum or a violet carbon-fiber accent. Sport models are available in red leather with a glass fiber accent.

The cabin of the Infiniti Q60 has been packaged to offer comfortable space for all passengers, in spite of its sports coupe shape. Its 2,850 mm (112.2 in) wheelbase enables legroom of up to 1,095 mm (43.1 in) for front passengers and 823 mm (35.1 in) for both rear passengers. The Q60's 1,850 mm-wide (72.8 in) body (without mirrors) is sufficient to give all passengers plenty of shoulder and hip space. Shoulder room is 1,387 mm (54.6 in) for front passengers and 1,321 mm (52 in) for those in the rear, while hip room is 1,369 mm (53.9 in) and 1,217 mm (47.9 in), respectively. Irrespective of its sloping coupe roofline, the Q60 offers generous headroom for all passengers - 963 mm (37.9 in) in the front (without Moonroof) and 876 mm (34.5 in) in the back. The Q60 offers 342 liters (12.1 cubic feet) of cargo space.

New V6 powertrain delivers exhilarating performance

The all-new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, from the new 'VR' powertrain family, is the most advanced V6 engine that Infiniti has ever offered, striking an ideal balance between drivability, efficiency, and performance.

The new engine, 'VR30 DDTT' was created through extensive in-house experience of six-cylinder powertrain development. The 'VQ' V6 powertrain family, predecessor to 'VR', has been a long-established and multi-award winning series of engines that has appeared in Infiniti models since 1994.

The compact and lightweight engine has been developed to deliver optimal power and torque for an engine of its size, as well as high levels of fuel efficiency. The engine is available with either 400 or 300 horsepower, with power and torque accessible across a broad spread of mid-range engine speeds in which drivers typically spend most of their time.

Peak power from the 400 hp engine (298 kW, 405 ps) arrives at 6,400 rpm, producing 475 Nm (350 lb-ft) torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm. With this engine, the Q60 will accelerate from 0-to-62 mph (0-to-100 km) in 5.0 seconds (AWD), and reach a top speed of 155 mph (250 km). With the highest power-to-efficiency ratio of any car in the premium sports coupe class, the Q60 is capable of 22 mpg (US combined, rear-wheel drive; 21 mpg all-wheel drive).

The 300hp engine (224kW, 304ps) produces its peak power also at 6,400rpm, and up to 400Nm (295lb-ft) torque across the same broad 1,600-5,200 rpm rev range. These outputs have been achieved while delivering 22mpg (US combined, rear-wheel drive; 22mpg all-wheel drive).

This balance of power to efficiency was made possible thanks to a set of newly-developed Infiniti powertrain features.

Chief among these is a new direct-injection gasoline (DIG) fueling system. The high-pressure DIG system allows for precise control over injection timings and the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber, delivering the exact amount required for smooth engine acceleration, depending on throttle position and engine speed. This system makes the new V6 one of the cleanest, most fuel efficient and powerful engines of its type that the sports coupe class has ever seen.

A four-cylinder turbo-charged 2.0-liter DIG (direct-injection gasoline) engine is also available on the Q60, with enhanced direct fuel injection for efficiency in all conditions. This engine delivers 208 hp (155 kW, 211 ps) at 5,500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) maximum torque from 1,500 to 3,500 rpm. A high-pressure direct injection with piezoelectric injectors delivers fuel to the engine in precise amounts for greater fuel efficiency: 25 mpg (US combined, rear-wheel drive; 24 mpg all-wheel drive).

The all-aluminum 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine uses a hydraulic variable valve timing control system and direct fuel injection to maximize its mechanical efficiency, with resin-coated pistons minimizing friction. Infiniti's Idle Stop-Start system, fitted as standard to 2.0-liter DIG engines, provides further improvements to fuel economy.

The engine's wide-range single-scroll turbocharger provides peak torque at those engine speeds most commonly used by drivers, though the free-revving nature of the engine allows drivers to reach a red line of 6,300 rpm. Its DIG system, paired with a relatively low 9.8:1 compression ratio, allows the Q60's 2.0-liter turbo engine to offer similar performance characteristics to the new, larger 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine.

Empowering drive from adaptable chassis technology

The Infiniti Q60 embodies Infiniti's dedication to developing new and innovative driving technologies that deliver a confidence-inspiring and personalized experience behind the wheel.

The second-generation of Infiniti's world-first Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) is an advanced 'steer-by-wire' system that has undergone significant re-tuning to enhance steering feel and feedback without compromising comfort. The Q60 driver can choose from seven personalized modes to customize steering performance according to their preferred driving style.

The steer-by-wire system does without mechanically linked parts and instead employs digital components that communicate electronically via an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The ECU relays steering input from the driver to the wheels, sending signals instantaneously to the Steering Angle Actuator that adjusts the cutting angle of the front tires. Sending information in the reverse direction, the Steering Angle Actuator also communicates road feedback to the steering wheel, filtering out a certain level of vibration from the road surface - reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys. The connection between driver input and steering feedback and chassis behavior is immediate, thanks to the electronic connection between components.

With the DAS system, steering effort gradually increases with vehicle speed and lateral G, similar to a conventional steering set-up while also offering improvements: driving is unaffected by the kind of kickbacks and forced movements of the steering wheel normally found with a mechanical steering set-up and exacerbated by broken road surfaces. Drivers are offered a more refined and more direct steering system, delivering a confidence-inspiring, in-control experience behind the wheel.

Developed to work in tandem with DAS, an all-new electronic suspension system, Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS), monitors the vehicle's body roll, pitch and bounce rate to deliver a secure ride by further reducing unwanted steering feel and vibrations.

The DDS is controlled through a new set of electronically adjustable dampers, which regulate control of the variable damping force, offering a soft or firm ride. Soft damping control has been engineered to balance comfort and handling, ensuring that bumps and undulating roads are absorbed as much as possible. Firmer damping control delivers more agile handling while providing the best performance for a flat and stable ride.

Both DAS and DDS are available on Q60 models equipped with the 3.0-liter engine.

As standard, Q60 models equipped with the new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine feature Infiniti's Rack Electronic Power Steering (Rack EPS). The system provides a linear and in-control driving experience, with every mode making for quick, natural, and precise handling, encouraging maneuverability and ease of control.

As a third steering system for the Q60 family, four-cylinder turbocharged Q60 models are equipped with a speed-sensitive hydraulic electronic rack-and-pinion power steering system as standard. This increases assistance at low speeds and reduces assistance for enhanced feel and response at higher speeds, with the assistive steering motor aiding driver inputs.

The standard suspension set-up ensures a low level of road noise and minimal intrusion of unwanted vibrations, while allowing for more direct and linear handling responses. Suspension link layouts and bushings have been modified specifically for their application in the Q60, while shock absorbers are relocated to make way for a selection of other tailor-made suspension components, endowing the Q60 with optimized sports coupe ride and handling.

Multiple Customization Options

The all-new Infiniti Q60 is fully customizable through the Drive Mode Selector (DMS) - accessed through the 8-inch upper touchscreen. The system allows the drive mode to be selected from the following available options: 'Standard', 'Snow', 'Eco', 'Sport', 'Sport+' (new for certain models), and 'Personal'.

The Standard mode has been tuned to represent the core performance of the Q60: normal engine output and transmission settings combined with a unique blend of enhanced ride comfort and agile handling - what Infiniti's vehicle development teams have defined as the ideal performance characteristics for the car. In this mode, steering requires less effort at lower speeds for easier maneuverability, while at higher speeds or over rough road surfaces, there is a feeling of stability with fewer kickbacks associated with a slower gear ratio and firmer steering feel.

Sport mode increases the level of steering effort required and quickens the steering ratio, for more immediate handling responses. Selecting the new Sport+ mode, steering effort remains the same as Sport mode, but the response of the steering is further increased, with an even quicker steering ratio for incisive, precise handling performance - depending on vehicle speed. For example, compared to driving in Standard mode at a speed of 100 kph, the steering ratio for Sport is four per cent quicker, and 12 per cent quicker for Sport+.

In addition, Sport and Sport+ modes come with changes to engine and transmission mapping to deliver the required driving characteristics.

In Personal mode Q60 drivers can personalize the DAS performance by selecting one of three core 'modes' (Standard, Sport and Sport+) and then specifying their preferred level of 'response' (Default, Dynamic and Dynamic+). In total there are seven mode and response combinations available in Personal: Standard and Default; Sport and Default; Sport and Dynamic; Sport and Dynamic+; Sport+ and Default; Sport+ and Dynamic; Sport+ and Dynamic+. For the highest level of assistance and ultimate sports coupe driving experience, the Q60 driver would choose Sport+ mode with Dynamic+ response.

In Snow mode, the engine automatically lowers its output for wet or icy conditions. The transmission adjusts, so to use a higher gear and lower torque and power output. This helps prevent wheel spin on slippery roads. In Eco mode, the steering force is lighter, while the engine automatically lowers output for economy driving. Throttle response is adjusted and the transmission not as immediate as in other modes. Transmission shift points have been changed for maximum economy.

For each of these drive modes, customers can also select either the 'soft' or the 'firm' electronic damper settings offered with the Dynamic Digital Suspension.

Additional drivetrain technology connects car to road

The Infiniti Q60's seven-speed automatic transmission has been engineered with gear ratios spaced to allow for responsive, direct acceleration. Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) uses a lateral acceleration sensor to detect topographical changes in the road, such as hills or corners, and enhances gear-select patterns according to the changing conditions. ASC also allows the transmission to observe driving behaviors and adapt shifts to driver feedback.

In Sport mode, the Q60 selects a more aggressive shift pattern, holding on to gears longer to tap in to the engine's maximum performance reserves at higher revolutions. In all instances, the automatic transmission shifts smoothly, with less performance-focused modes giving the car an even more relaxed gait for everyday conditions.

The Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides enhanced stability for greater road holding in low-grip situations, distributing torque 50:50 between front and rear wheels in its default setting. If the car detects that the extra traction isn't immediately required, the system can divert up to 100 per cent to the rear-wheels, redistributing power to each of the four wheels as conditions change or if it detects a momentary loss of traction.

Compared to its predecessor, a combination of wider wheels and tires not only adds to the new Q60's attention-grabbing design, but also improves vehicle handling.

High-tech features offer maximum comfort and convenience

Technological innovation facilitates comfort and convenience in the cabin of the Q60 premium sports coupe, providing a refined and contemporary space for driver and passengers alike.

Infiniti engineers have worked to minimize Q60's noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels. In particular, NVH has been improved with the adoption of significant suspension insulation and stiffer cross-members, as well as wheel spokes designed to dampen vibrations. Active Noise Cancellation is fitted to all Q60 models, effectively preventing negative engine noise frequencies from disturbing the calm of the cabin.

Making its world debut in a production vehicle, the Q60 will be available with an all-new 13-speaker, Bose® Performance Series sound system, an optional audio setup which has been tailored to the acoustics of the Q60's cabin. Featuring an all-new system architecture and high-performance components, the fully-immersive Bose audio system transforms the cabin into the driver's very own audio haven. The system's interface and speakers feature the latest 'industrial' design that characterizes Bose Performance Series audio systems, lending an even more distinctive, high quality look and feel to the cabin.

Infiniti's desire to offer drivers a totally in-control driving experience extends to the Q60's newly-designed high-back, high-bolster seats. Infiniti's development teams found that many car seats, regardless of vehicle sector, force occupants' spines into a 'C' shape and offer very little shoulder support, placing up to 40 per cent more load on the spine compared to a standing position.

Infiniti's hallmark 'spinal support' seats have been carefully engineered for the Q60 to match the curvature of the spine, providing a consistent level of support and minimizing pressure on lower and upper back muscles. The supportive seats reduce the spinal curvature that many traditional seats force occupants to adopt, with a more even alignment between chest and pelvis. Extensive upper body support spreads the occupant's weight more evenly all the way up the chair.

The Infiniti Q60 is equipped as standard with Infiniti's InTouch advanced infotainment setup. Now upgraded with a faster processor, InTouch allows occupants to personalize the interior environment of the Q60 according to their preferences, and can store profiles for multiple drivers, identified by their I-key (intelligent key).

InTouch is able to memorize more than 200 settings that the individual can program themselves. These include engine, suspension, and steering modes, driving seat positions, audio, and navigation settings; display settings, and heating and ventilation preferences.

In certain markets, the Infiniti Q60 is equipped with a new Telematic Control Unit (TCU) which allows the owner to control elements of their car remotely via their smartphone for greater security and convenience.

Once connected to the user's smartphone, the new TCU opens up a series of features for Q60 buyers, accessed through the InTouch Services smartphone app. These include: remote engine start; car locator; and stolen vehicle tracking.

The technology enables owners to access a Vehicle Health Report, providing a monthly overview of the car's status regarding ABS, airbags, brakes, engine, oil pressure, and tire pressure. InTouch then alerts the driver if any action or servicing is required.

Comprehensive safety features for ultimate peace-of-mind

Infiniti's comprehensive approach to active safety is evident throughout the Q60 premium sports coupe. The Q60's suite of driver assistive safety technologies allows the car to monitor for and identify potential hazards, actively assisting the driver to avoid those hazards, and, if a collision is unavoidable, mitigate the effects.

The range of active, and passive, safety technologies include:

• Monitoring for hazards: Around View Monitor; Intelligent Cruise Control with Distance Control Assist
• Appearance of a hazard: Lane Departure Prevention; Blind Spot Intervention; Moving Object Detection; Predictive Forward Collision Warning
• Avoiding and mitigating the effects of a collision: Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian braking system; Back-up Collision Intervention

In addition to these safety technologies, the Q60 includes other driver-assistive features such as the Adaptive Front Lighting System and Active Lane Control.

The Infiniti Q60 is equipped with six airbags as standard in all markets - driver and passenger front and side impact airbags, and roof-mounted curtain airbags. A rollover curtain airbag is also available in certain markets, as well as a pop-up engine hood, engineered to meet new global safety standards for pedestrian safety (designed to limit potential injury to pedestrians).

Unique new production methods

The new Infiniti Q60 will be built at the company's production facility in Tochigi, Japan. The Tochigi plant has been upgraded to meet the unique production needs of the new premium sports coupe, in particular to create the bold lines and sharp angles of the Q60's design.

Production machinery and tooling on the Tochigi production line has been upgraded to incorporate a number of the Q60's new manufacturing processes and advanced design features (such as the sharply curved body panels and deep inset mounts for lamps).

Manufacturing, design and engineering teams at the Tochigi plant worked very closely together to ensure that a new trunk lid feature for Q60 could be realized with the highest quality. In a world's first application, the trunk lid is a hybrid combination of a resin skin on a steel frame - giving Infiniti designers more freedom to develop shapes that can then be built in a single part.

Thanks to these production enhancements, the road-going version of the Q60 remains strikingly faithful to the original concept design.

Additional enhancements to the Tochigi production line include a new dedicated paint booth, installed solely for the production of the Q60's "Dynamic Sunstone Red". The new development to the Paint Shop facility enables Infiniti's paint specialists to more finely control the thickness and quality levels needed to achieve the deep, glossy red shade. After testing several hundred variations of paint formulations and various production processes, Infiniti has developed a new process specifically for the new color, using a combination of coating machinery and manual processes.

On the Infiniti Q60 production line, 216 highly-skilled 'Takumi' - artisans - have been carefully selected from the 4,500-strong workforce. Infiniti's Takumi not only require a particularly high level of technical knowledge, they are specially trained in premium vehicle manufacturing and have a deep understanding of the Infiniti brand and its core values. Takumi work across body press, welding, painting, assembly and quality assurance, and - true to the Japanese philosophy of 'Kaizen', that of continuous improvement - undergo regular training in new techniques and skills.

From the Takumi, a further six 'Meister Takumi' were selected - those with the highest understanding of premium car production and the expectations of Infiniti's customers - to ensure the manufacturing process at the plant itself is fully attuned with the unique blend of attributes that differentiate Infiniti's products from its rivals.