Peter Palmer: Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 Pushes Brand Threshold

Originally appeared on Automoblog.net

When the Infiniti Q60 debuted in January at the North American International Auto Show, it was noted as a benchmark for the brand. Carlos Ghosn, President and Chief Executive Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., explained how the Q60 would attract new buyers with its unique design, advanced powertrain, and superior ride and handling.

“As the third-generation version of Infiniti’s iconic sports coupe, the new Q60 builds on Infiniti’s brand heritage and history of technology leadership,” he said during the reveal.

Engine

When Infiniti recently announced pricing for the Q60 Red Sport 400, a similar theme arose. Randy Parker, Vice President, Infiniti Americas, commented specifically on the vehicle’s horsepower. Under the hood of the Q60 Red Sport 400 is a new VR-series engine. This higher output version has a solid advantage over the prior VQ-series engines that served Infiniti’s performance vehicles for years.

“The new Q60 Red Sport 400 has more horsepower than we’ve ever put in any Infiniti sports coupe, and will hold a strong position against its competitors with a significant power advantage,” Parker said.

The Q60 Red Sport 400 is adequately named. The 3.0-liter aluminum-alloy DOHC 24-valve twin-turbo V6 creates 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Its unique construction includes twin water-to-air charge coolers with two water pumps, an optical turbo speed sensor, and 14.7 psi turbo boost rating.

Ride & Handling

The 2017 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport features larger brakes and red calipers. The sport-tuned, Digital Dynamic Suspension will enhance ride and handling, something highlighted specifically by Ghosn during the NAIAS reveal. The vehicle also features 19-inch sport aluminum-alloy wheels.

Interior & Exterior

Semi-aniline leather sport seats, aluminum-accented pedals, and paddle shifters help create a “driver’s glove” ideology. Infiniti’s design team focused on a “fitted” and “tailored” feel for the interior, believing it would further highlight the Q60 Red Sport 400’s performance. Throughout the exterior, deep curves and creases are easily noticeable, along with the low, wide stance.

Dynamic Sunstone Red is only available for Q60 Red Sport 400 models.

Pricing & Availability

The 2017 Infiniti Q60 is offered in eight trim levels, real-wheel or all-wheel drive, with three turbocharged engines. The Q60 Red Sport 400 will arrive at Infiniti retailers this month. MSRP for a rear-wheel drive Red Sport starts at $51,300. Add a modest $2,000 for an all-wheel drive model.

*Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.