2001 Infiniti Q45: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A larger, more powerful Q45 bows this Spring as an early 2002 arrival. Meantime, the existing 5-year-old design adds body-color door handles, real bird's-eye maple interior trim, and a leather/simulated-wood steering wheel as the only changes for 2001. Q45 comes in Luxury and sportier Touring (Q45t) models, the latter with new bright-finish wheels, plus electronically controlled shock absorbers. Both have automatic transmission, ABS, traction control, front side airbags, anti-whiplash front head restraints. Optional two-tone paint, heated front seats, and a navigation system satellite/cell-phone link to a staffed assistance center.

COMPETITION

This diverse segment offers the widest price range. It covers everything from the $34,000 Saab 9-5 to the $130,000 Mercedes-Benz SL500. Obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $42,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though a bit long in the tooth, also continues to impress with its impeccable road manners and luxurious comfort.

If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.