Infiniti's Q50 sport sedan shows refinement without flash

The Q50 model came out a few years ago as Infiniti renamed its lineup. It previously existed as the G35 and G37 models, able competition to German compact sedans such as the Audi A4 and BMW 3-series.

The Q50, while similar in size to the G37, is a completely new car, making use of a powerful yet more efficient engine and new cabin electronics.

The Q50 benefits from other technical innovations, such as an adaptive suspension.

The Q50 model comes in 16 variants, with different drivetrains, equipment and a choice of rear-wheel- or all-wheel-drive. This model is the Q50 3.0t Sport AWD.

The design of the Q50 is refined without being ostentatious.

The engine for the 3.0t is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, good for 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.

The car seats five, although rear seat headroom is on the low side.

The Q50 can be had with what Infiniti calls Direct Adaptive Steering, a steer-by-wire system, but this model has the base electric power steering system.

The car's drive modes include Eco, Standard, Sport and Sport Plus.

Fuel economy, at 18 mpg city and 26 mpg, isn't stunning, but our review average of 23 mpg is good for a sport sedan and a big improvement over this model's predecessor.