2002 Infiniti Q45: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The flagship sedan of Nissan's luxury brand is redesigned for 2002. It's wider and taller than the 1997-2001 version, on a longer wheelbase for more interior room. New styling includes 7-lens headlamps claimed to be the world's brightest. Infiniti aims to revive Q45's performance roots with a new 4.5-liter V8 with 74 hp more than the prior 4.1. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift feature supplants a 4-speed without. Also standard: antilock 4-wheel discs with brake assist, traction control/antiskid system, 17-inch wheels, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and leather/wood interior trim. An in-dash information screen serves an available navigation system, and there's standard voice-control for audio, climate, and navigation functions.

To the base Luxury model the Sport Package option adds 18-inch wheels and auto-adjusting shock absorbers with firmer sport setting. The Premium Package includes power-reclining rear seat, rear audio/climate controls, and a TV camera that displays a rear view on the dashboard screen when Reverse is selected. Nissan's Intelligent Cruise Control option uses laser sensors and is designed to automatically speed or slow the Q45 to keep a constant distance from cars ahead.

COMPETITION

This diverse segment offers the widest price range and obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $44,000 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. The refined Lexus LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at just under $55,000. 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 roomy Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.