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Infiniti Q50S Hybrid innovates drive and cabin tech (pictures)

The 2014 Infiniti Q50S Hybrid brings in an economical hybrid drivetrain, innovative handling technology, and a new, app-focused infotainment system.

Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
Wayne Cunningham
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Infiniti is revamping its model line-up, coming out with the new Q50 model as a replacement for the prior G37 sedan.

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This new Q50 can be had as a hybrid, like the 2014 Q50S Hybrid model shown here.

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The Q50S Hybrid retains the G37's place as a premium sport sedan.

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Infiniti offers the Q50S Hybrid in rear- or all-wheel-drive configuration.

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LED headlights come standard on the hybrid model.

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Infiniti retains and refines its design cues, such as the dropped hood between the fenders.

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The small trunk lid hinges high for easy access.

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Trunk space is slightly compromised by the lithium-ion battery pack behind the rear seat.

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The hybrid drivetrain consists of a 3.5-liter V-6 engine and electric motor, with total output of 360 horsepower.

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Cameras in front of the rearview mirror enable driver assistance features.

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Infiniti did not neglect the interior styling for this update.

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As a mid-size premium sedan, the rear seat passenger space is a bit cozy.

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Deep grain wood trim adorns the cabin.

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An innovative steer-by-wire system, which Infiniti calls Direct Adaptive Steering, comes standard on the Q50S Hybrid.

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Chassis Control is a combination of the steering system, suspension engineering, and corner braking feature.

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A seven-speed automatic transmission is the only gearbox available.

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This dial controls content on the car's upper LCD.

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The upper LCD primarily shows maps.

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The upper LCD can also show this surround view camera imagery.

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The lower touchscreen shows a variety of information, such as performance gauges.

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Typical for hybrids, a power flow animation shows how power is distributed around the car.

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Voice command employs a handy guide on the screen when activated.

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This default screen gives access to destination input and phone features.

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Typical phone features include contact list access and call history.

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With the Infiniti Connected app on a paired smartphone, drivers can access Google search and Facebook.

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Audio sources include USB, disc, Bluetooth streaming, HD radio, and satellite radio.

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Playing music from a Bluetooth-paired iPhone, the Q50S Hybrid gives full music library access.

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The Q50S Hybrid includes HD radio.

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