So, you're thinking about snagging a 2017 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport? Awesome! This car packs a serious punch and looks pretty darn good doing it. But before you jump in headfirst, let's break down what makes this car tick, what's awesome about it, and maybe a few things to keep in mind. Think of this as your friendly guide to figuring out if the 2017 Q50 Red Sport is the right ride for you. We'll dive into the engine, the handling, the tech, and everything else that makes this car a contender. Ready? Let's roll!

Performance and Powertrain

The heart and soul of the 2017 Q50 Red Sport is undoubtedly its engine. We're talking about a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that cranks out a massive 400 horsepower. Yeah, you read that right – 400! That kind of power translates to some serious fun on the road. Whether you're merging onto the highway or just want to feel that surge of acceleration, this engine delivers. The turbos spool up quickly, giving you almost instant power, which is fantastic for everyday driving and those moments when you need to pass someone in a hurry. It’s not just about the raw power, though. The engine is also surprisingly refined. It's smooth and quiet when you're just cruising around town, but it lets out a satisfying growl when you put your foot down. It’s the best of both worlds! Now, all that power is sent to the wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Some folks might lament the lack of a manual option, but honestly, the automatic is pretty darn good. It shifts quickly and smoothly, and it has paddle shifters if you want to take control yourself. Speaking of control, you can choose between rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. If you live in an area with snow or rain, the all-wheel-drive version is definitely the way to go. It gives you that extra bit of confidence and traction when the weather gets nasty. And let's not forget about the different drive modes. You can switch between Standard, Sport, Eco, and even a Personal mode where you can customize the settings to your liking. Sport mode tightens up the steering, sharpens the throttle response, and holds gears longer for a more engaging driving experience. Eco mode, on the other hand, prioritizes fuel efficiency, which is nice when you're trying to save some gas. So, to sum it up, the performance and powertrain of the 2017 Q50 Red Sport are seriously impressive. The engine is powerful, refined, and responsive, and the transmission does a great job of putting that power to the ground. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a bit of excitement behind the wheel, this car won't disappoint.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2017 Q50 Red Sport, you'll find a cabin that's both comfortable and well-appointed. While it might not be the most cutting-edge design on the market, it's still a pleasant place to spend time. The seats are supportive and offer plenty of adjustments, so you can find a comfortable driving position no matter your size. The Red Sport models come with unique stitching and trim, which add a touch of sportiness to the interior. The materials are generally good quality, although some plastics here and there might feel a bit cheap compared to some of its rivals. But overall, the interior is a nice blend of luxury and sportiness. One of the standout features of the Q50's interior is the dual-screen infotainment system. You get one screen up top for navigation and other information, and another screen down below for controlling audio, climate, and other settings. It's a bit different from what you'll find in most cars, and it takes some getting used to. Some people love it, while others find it a bit clunky. But once you get the hang of it, it's actually quite functional. The system includes navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a variety of apps. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto weren't standard on the 2017 model, which is a bummer, but you might be able to find a workaround or upgrade depending on the specific car you're looking at. In terms of technology, the 2017 Q50 Red Sport also comes with a range of driver-assistance features. These include things like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features can help make your driving experience safer and more relaxed, especially on long trips. The adaptive cruise control is particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic, as it can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. The interior space is pretty good. There's plenty of room up front for the driver and passenger, and the back seat is decent too, although taller adults might feel a bit cramped on longer journeys. The trunk is also a good size, with enough space for luggage or groceries. So, overall, the interior and technology of the 2017 Q50 Red Sport are solid. The cabin is comfortable and well-equipped, and the infotainment system is functional, even if it's not the most intuitive. And with a range of driver-assistance features, this car can help make your driving experience safer and more enjoyable.

Handling and Ride Quality

Let's talk about how the 2017 Q50 Red Sport handles on the road. This is where things get a little more nuanced. On the one hand, the car has plenty of power, and it feels eager to accelerate. The steering is precise and responsive, and it gives you a good sense of what's happening at the front wheels. The suspension is firm, which helps to minimize body roll in corners. But on the other hand, some people find the ride quality to be a bit harsh, especially on rough roads. The suspension can feel a bit stiff, which can make the car feel unsettled over bumps and potholes. This is especially true if you opt for the sport suspension, which is even firmer. The steering system has also been a point of contention for some drivers. The Q50 uses an electronic steering system, which is designed to provide a more direct and responsive feel. However, some people find it to be artificial and lacking in feedback. They say that it doesn't give them the same sense of connection to the road as a traditional hydraulic steering system. That being said, others actually prefer the electronic steering system. They find it to be light and easy to use, especially in city driving. And they appreciate the fact that it can be customized to their liking. You can adjust the steering effort and response using the drive mode selector. In Sport mode, the steering becomes heavier and more responsive, while in Comfort mode, it becomes lighter and easier to turn. The brakes on the 2017 Q50 Red Sport are strong and provide plenty of stopping power. They're easy to modulate, which means you can smoothly and confidently bring the car to a halt. And they hold up well under hard use, which is important if you plan on doing any spirited driving. When it comes to overall handling, the 2017 Q50 Red Sport is a capable and sporty car. It's not quite as sharp or engaging as some of its rivals, but it's still fun to drive. And with its powerful engine and responsive steering, it can definitely put a smile on your face. Just be aware that the ride quality can be a bit harsh, and the steering system might not be to everyone's liking. So, before you buy, it's definitely worth taking a test drive to see how you feel about the handling and ride quality.

Potential Issues and Reliability

Okay, let's get real for a second. No car is perfect, and the 2017 Q50 Red Sport has its share of potential issues. It's important to be aware of these before you make a purchase, so you can go in with your eyes wide open. One of the most common complaints about the Q50 is its reliability. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, the electrical system, and even the engine. These problems can range from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical failures. It's worth doing some research online to see what kind of problems other owners have experienced. You can check out forums, review sites, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to get a sense of the car's reliability record. Another potential issue is the car's depreciation. The Q50 tends to depreciate faster than some of its rivals, which means it might not hold its value as well over time. This is something to keep in mind if you plan on selling the car in a few years. It's always a good idea to check the car's resale value before you buy it. You can use online tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to get an estimate of its current market value. Of course, not all 2017 Q50 Red Sports are lemons. Many owners have had no problems at all with their cars. But it's still important to be aware of the potential issues so you can make an informed decision. If you're considering buying a used 2017 Q50 Red Sport, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before you sign on the dotted line. They can check for any potential problems and give you a better sense of the car's overall condition. It's also a good idea to check the car's maintenance history. Make sure it's been properly maintained and that all the necessary services have been performed on time. A well-maintained car is more likely to be reliable and last longer. So, while the 2017 Q50 Red Sport can be a fun and exciting car to own, it's important to be aware of the potential issues and reliability concerns. Do your research, get the car inspected, and check the maintenance history before you buy.

Is the 2017 Q50 Red Sport Still a Good Choice?

So, after all that, is the 2017 Q50 Red Sport still a good choice? Well, it depends on what you're looking for in a car. If you want a powerful and sporty sedan that looks good and offers a comfortable interior, then the Q50 Red Sport is definitely worth considering. The engine is a beast, the handling is decent, and the technology is pretty good. But if you're concerned about reliability or depreciation, then you might want to think twice. The Q50 has had its share of reliability issues, and it doesn't hold its value as well as some of its rivals. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2017 Q50 Red Sport is a personal one. You need to weigh the pros and cons and decide what's most important to you. If you're willing to take a chance on reliability, then you might be rewarded with a fun and exciting car that you'll enjoy driving for years to come. But if you're risk-averse, then you might want to consider a more reliable option. Before you make a decision, it's definitely worth taking a test drive and doing some more research. Talk to other owners, read reviews, and check out forums to get a better sense of what it's like to own a 2017 Q50 Red Sport. And don't forget to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it. That way, you can be sure that you're getting a good car that won't give you any major headaches down the road. No matter what you decide, good luck with your car search! And remember, the most important thing is to find a car that you love and that meets your needs. Happy driving!