[Q602B]

Comparo: Infiniti Q50 AWD Hybrid Sport vs. Lexus IS 350 AWD F-Sport | Driving

 

[selzini]

Once again, a Canadian reviewer is more thorough than the U.S. reviewers, and actually tests the various modes of the car. I had to smile when he described the interior of the Lexus: The IS interior feels akin to a 1990 stereo amplifier and turntable set, with multi-layers to the dash. That was nicer than what I've said. It just looks so thrown together by three or four different committees. [email protected], even the BMW interior looks modern compared to the Lexus. Gee, I can't wait to see the eventual comparison tests in the American rags(uh, I mean mags).

 

[brianch]

I still think the Q50 is much nicer looking. But what do I know..

 

[Mr. PLP]

Once again, a Canadian reviewer is more thorough than the U.S. reviewers, and actually tests the various modes of the car.

Well put selzini (as always). Not all of us are blessed with a commute set in a racetrack, empty car lot, or through a blissful and vacant winding road.

 

[SimpsonTide985]

The Canadians are Infiniti's biggest supporters!

Yeah, maybe the IS350FS went too far in creating a car attracting to the younger/less sophisticated crowd; it comes off a bit feeling a bit like less car for the money in that regard but hey, I still liked it.

 

[InfinitiPlusOne]

It's not fair to compare an overpower Q50S hybrid to underpower IS350 F-Sport.
If they make an IS350 F-Sport + hybrid, that's one tough car to beat.
I remember I was zipping pass a IS350 F-Sport. I just in a mood to drive fast that day, I wasn't meant to piss anyone off. That person probably got pissed and start picking up speed to catch me. I punch the accelerate and I was gone. I looks in the rear view mirror and his car was no where to be seem.

 

[selzini]

The Canadians are Infiniti's biggest supporters!

Yeah, maybe the IS350FS went too far in creating a car attracting to the younger/less sophisticated crowd; it comes off a bit feeling a bit like less car for the money in that regard but hey, I still liked it.[/QUOTE]

Yeah, but do you know. You're still training your girl friend.

 

[NissLover]

I was actually surprised that they went with the Q50, they made it seem like they enjoyed driving the IS better. I think people just have to get used to the immediate response of DAS and I think Infiniti should keep making adjustments to provide better steering feel and all shall be well.

 

[SimpsonTide985]

The Canadians are Infiniti's biggest supporters!

Yeah, maybe the IS350FS went too far in creating a car attracting to the younger/less sophisticated crowd; it comes off a bit feeling a bit like less car for the money in that regard but hey, I still liked it.

Yeah, but do you know. You're still training your girl friend.

Wow that's a stretch, selzini...Even for you!!

 

[Klamalama]

I appreciate the IS interior. I think it's daring and successful. However, the Q59's Tesla-like console is great. As far as styling, the interiors are a tie. There was no mention of the transmission hump's intrusion into the driver's right leg (that alone was a deal breaker for me). Regarding the exterior, I'm already tired of Lexus' grille. It's such an affectation!

 

[SimpsonTide985]

Love it when the drive thru girl peeks into the car, staring at the interior console.

It does remind you how much the Q50's interior stands out and makes an impression.

 

[SimpsonTide985]

It's not fair to compare an overpower Q50S hybrid to underpower IS350 F-Sport.
If they make an IS350 F-Sport + hybrid, that's one tough car to beat.
I remember I was zipping pass a IS350 F-Sport. I just in a mood to drive fast that day, I wasn't meant to piss anyone off. That person probably got pissed and start picking up speed to catch me. I punch the accelerate and I was gone. I looks in the rear view mirror and his car was no where to be seem.

I don't think the F-Sport is underpowered, nor do I think the Q50 Hybrid is overpowered. The thing to keep in mind is the proportions in weight, handling, and size which the review does factor into it.

 

[InfinitiPlusOne]

I don't know about you, but 306hp vs 360hp is pretty significant to me.
Yes, the hybrid is about 300lbs heavier but once you pick up speed the heavier weight become less a factor. Despite it heavier weight, the Q50 hybrid torque will beat the IS350 F-Sport anytime from stand still. Like I mention, it's not fair to compare the hybrid to the gasser. A better comparison is the Q50S vs IS350 F-Sport. When it come to handling, than that is a different answer.

I don't think the F-Sport is underpowered, nor do I think the Q50 Hybrid is overpowered. The thing to keep in mind is the proportions in weight, handling, and size which the review does factor into it.

 

[SimpsonTide985]

I don't know about you, but 306hp vs 360hp is pretty significant to me.
Yes, the hybrid is about 300lbs heavier but once you pick up speed the heavier weight become less a factor. Despite it heavier weight, the Q50 hybrid torque will beat the IS350 F-Sport anytime from stand still. Like I mention, it's not fair to compare the hybrid to the gasser. A better comparison is the Q50S vs IS350 F-Sport. When it come to handling, than that is a different answer.

Well that's what I mean.

I'm talking overall context, not just looking at horsepower because the cars have very different mechanics as well that you need to take into account.

Not to mention, there is a significant price gap between the two cars.

So, to me, depending on the context, I think the cars might be incomparable for several reasons, but at the same time, I can't really say to what extent one is over/under in relative power in relation to their size and price ranges. It's a gray area for sure.

 

[InfinitiPlusOne]

They both are very different car. For me if I wants power, the Q50 hybrid is the way to go for price/performance. If I wants a quick/nimble car, than I probably choose the Q50S or IS350 F-Sport.
Now, if Lexus come out with a IS350 F-Sport Hybrid, than it's a better comparison.
For overall comparison and say which is better, that just a matter of opinion. Like any reviews, it just opinion.

So, to me, depending on the context, I think the cars might be incomparable for several reasons, but at the same time, I can't really say to what extent one is over/under in relative power in relation to their size and price ranges. It's a gray area for sure.

 

[andrew]

Good article.
I don't know why but when I see the front of the IS-350 with that big grill I just cringe.
Otherwise it's a great looking car.
I like the rear of the IS-350 better than the Q50.

The dash layout on the IS-350 does look a bit clunky / strange looking as well like the article pointed out.

 

[Glashub]

As the owner of the 2014 Fsport I can tell you that is one finely balanced car. Harmony of disparate but integral parts. I just returned from a long trip -- over 1000 miles. The seats are extremely comfortable. This is the 1st car I've owned where slow drivers pull over to the right lane as soon as they see the grill and the lighting in the rear view mirror. TL and Genesis -- I'd have to flash my lights and often they didn't pay attention. The IS grill has a visceral primitive effect on people -- just as the Lexus designers say they planned it.

 

[selzini]

I certainly can't comment on the comfort and drivability of the car. However, as far as people moving over to let you pass? Maybe they don't want to continue to look at that ugly snout.

 

[Glashub]

I know you're being funny but that could be true in your opinion. See picking on the grill is easy. It's controversial. However --

The New York Times has the IS in the Top 10 by both auto journalists.

"8. LEXUS IS 350 ($40,375 base, $49,615 as tested) As Lexus begins to wake from a design slumber, the new IS is dressed and ready to party. The Predator-mouth grille leaves some viewers squeamish, but that’s about the only quibble: The car is limber and fleet with its 306-horsepower V-6, and it builds a mischievous rapport with its pilot. The modern cabin — distinctive, deluxe and refreshingly different from the Germans — may be my favorite of any sport sedan in this set."

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/201...-slides-5.html

The LA Times had the IS as one of the top 10 cars -

"Lexus IS 350: Toyota's luxury division puts out solid, well-appointed cars that are typically boring. The new $36,845 Lexus IS 350 breaks that pattern. Remove the logo and you might mistake this aggressive sports sedan for something from Germany. From the side, the IS is sleek, with a long hood. In front, lines of the grille flow across the hood, presenting a sense of movement with a hint of menace. The elegant interior boasts the precision fit and finish you expect from Japanese automakers. The IS 350 pairs a 3.5-liter V-6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission to provide sports-car acceleration. The car is stiff, connected to the road with nimble steering."

http://www.latimes.com/business/auto...#ixzz2p3miGXGD

And that's just two of many resoundingly positive reviews. I'm not here to troll. I enjoy car forums. I enjoy this forum. I may buy a Q50 in the next couple of years. I like the look and I respect what Infiniti is trying to do.

 

[SimpsonTide985]

Glashub, what decade were you born in?

I'm taking a poll.