2006 Infiniti Q45

Nissan’s luxury sub-brand sells stylish vehicles that deliver mixed results. Fit and finish is usually good, especially in the quiet, luxurious interiors. But Infiniti often falls short of competitors in fuel economy and handling. Some of its vehicles also score low in our owner satisfaction surveys, and most new models scored average for predicted reliability. New vehicles come standard with a full suite of active safety and driver assist systems. The brand’s lowest-priced option is a two-row compact SUV with a variable compression engine that attempts to deliver both fuel economy and sporty performance. The brand’s larger midsized, three-row SUV is roomy and quiet, with competitive fuel economy and quick acceleration. The largest Infiniti is a large three-row, high-end SUV that competes against Land Rover and Mercedes-Benz. With options, its price can cross $100,000. Among Infiniti’s discontinued vehicles, some sedans and coupes can be recommended among used luxury cars.

The flagship of the Infiniti line, the Q45 sedan boasts a powerful V8 and strong acceleration, though it is too big to be agile. The Q45 was marketed as a sporty alternative to the Lexus LS, but handling wasn't sporty, and the car lacked the spacious rear-seat and rich cabin materials found on direct competitors. The "Q" was redesigned for 2002, when it picked up a 340-hp V8, but the ride and handling still aren't world-class. Rear seat room is still disappointing. At least the "Q" offers a wealth of safety equipment and high-tech gadgets, such as a navigation system and backup camera. The Q45 was discontinued after the 2006 model year.