1997-2001 Infiniti Q45: Road Test

Updated: 11/23/08

1997 Infiniti Q45t
2001 Infiniti Q45
View the Photo Gallery

1997-2001 Infiniti Q45 

  • Price Range:  $4,600 - $8,900
CG Rating

53

out of 100

About our Road Test

Pricing

Explore

View Another Vehicle

Our road test for the 1997-2001 Infiniti Q45 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1997-2001 Infiniti Q45 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1997-2001 Infiniti Q45 is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

A test Q45 accelerated to 60 mph in a brisk 7.2 seconds. Midrange power is similarly ample, aided by a velvety-smooth, responsive and refined automatic transmission. Fuel economy is less inspiring. We averaged only 15.4 mpg in a driving mix that included a lot of rush-hour commuting, and 17.6 mpg in a session that covered more highway miles. Compared to the prior Q45, the new standard model is less agile. Road manners are competent enough, but hardly sporty. This version also feels more roly-poly on tight, twisty roads--closer to the Lexus LS than to BMW's 5-Series, for instance. Slightly numb on-center steering feel doesn't help on this score, either. Suspension damping is soft enough to allow a fair amount of nosedive during hard braking. Otherwise, the brakes perform admirably. At the same time, you can expect something close to a "magic carpet" ride, with outstanding impact absorption. Body control is better in the Touring edition, however. This "Q" is quiet, without question. Cruising is hushed, with little noise intruding from the road, wind, or engine. Passing over railroad tracks and other hazards generally produces a feeling of solidity. Though smaller outside than the prior "Q," this one is a little roomier inside. Despite the dimensions, though, lanky back-seat occupants must ride with knees-up if a tall passenger happens to occupy the front seat. Head room in back is only adequate, too. Front seats are roomy and comfortable, with enough adjustments to accommodate occupants of nearly any stature. Visibility is good except over-the-shoulder, where wide rear roof pillars serve as obstacles. Although the dashboard looks somewhat uninspired, it's orderly and convenient, though a few controls are cryptic or hidden. The sedan's trunk is wide but not very long, offering space for about four medium suitcases plus a few odds and ends.
Value for the Money
Though impressive overall and appealing in a number of ways, bland styling and inadequate cargo room help make the latest Q45 a less-than-scintillating competitor.
Advertisement

Expert Ratings Summary

Category Infiniti Q45t Rating
Performance 7
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 6
Steering/Handling/Braking 7
Quietness 6
Controls/Materials 6
Interior Room 6
Room/Comfort (rear) 4
Cargo Capacity 4
Value within Class 4
Total Score: 53

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

Car Buying Resources

Trade-in Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth.

Trade-in Calculator

Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer.

Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. The first...

Get a CARFAX report

What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn Things

Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance

Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers.

Sell Your Car

Search
Local Listings


to

submit

Vehicle
History Report

CARFAX

FREE CARFAX Record Check

Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.

Go
Advertisement
Advertisement