Infiniti
Q50
Infiniti
Q70
Infiniti Q50 vs Infiniti Q70: 2018 Comparison
The short answer
The Infiniti Q50 offers fuel economy, while the Infiniti Q70 excels at power instead. Choose the Infiniti Q50 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Infiniti Q70 if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Q50
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The 2014-2015 models equipped with the naturally aspirated 3.7L VQ37VHR engine are widely regarded as the more reliable choice, praised for their proven powertrain and driving engagement, though they are noted for specific, recurrent transmission and engine issues. The 2016+ models with the twin-turbocharged 3.0L VR30 engine receive praise for significant power potential and modern performance but are the subject of very frequent and serious concerns regarding turbocharger and engine reliability, particularly in early model years (2016-2017).
Best version to buy
2015 Q50 3.7L: The final model year with the naturally aspirated VQ37 engine is most frequently recommended for buyers prioritizing reliability and a proven powertrain over peak horsepower. For those seeking the turbocharged engine, a 2018 or 2019+ 3.0t model is advised to avoid the most problematic early production years.
Known issues
- ⚠Turbocharger failures (VR30 3.0t engine): Very frequent concerns, specifically for 2016-2017 models; Infiniti extended warranty on turbos noted. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Transmission valve body failures (VQ37 3.7L engine): Causes shifting problems, limp mode; described as a recurrent issue with a "50/50 chance" of occurrence; can require multiple replacements. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Outdated and problematic infotainment system: Described as "ancient and awful," lacking modern features like Apple CarPlay (in older models), with lag and connectivity issues. Frequency: very frequent.
Q70
Overall
Mixed to positive sentiment, heavily dependent on engine choice and model year. The naturally aspirated 3.7L V6 (VQ37VHR) and 5.6L V8 (VK56VD) engines are widely praised for their strong power, reliability, and longevity, with the 3.7L noted as being "rock solid" and the V8 described as "fun as shit to drive." The vehicle is appreciated for its handsome looks, comfortable and capable handling on both back roads and interstates, and spacious interior, particularly in the long-wheelbase (L) models. Significant and consistent criticism is directed at the outdated, overly complicated, and slow infotainment system and gauge cluster, which is described as feeling a generation behind competitors.
Best version to buy
2014 and newer Q70 with the 5.6L V8. This recommendation is based on mechanical quality-of-life updates that addressed known issues from the preceding M56 generation, such as the timing chain and rear-wheel steering.
Known issues
- ⚠Outdated and problematic infotainment system: described as overly complicated, slow, and a generation behind; Bluetooth connectivity issues with multiple phones. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Unresponsive 7-speed automatic transmission: significant lag and delay in kick-down, especially in default and Eco modes; harsh, noticeable shifts; described as having a "dead spot" and being sluggish. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Poor fuel economy: consistently reported as a downside for both the 3.7L V6 and 5.6L V8 engines. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Infiniti Q50 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Infiniti Q70, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Infiniti Q70 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti Q50 or the Infiniti Q70?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Infiniti Q50 and the Infiniti Q70. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti Q50 or the Infiniti Q70?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Infiniti Q50 or the Infiniti Q70?
The Infiniti Q50 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 9.1 L/100km combined versus 13.1 L/100km for the Infiniti Q70, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti Q50 or the Infiniti Q70?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.