Is the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport Worth Buying? Expert Review & Key Insights

Is the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport Worth Buying? Expert Review & Key Insights

Let me be honest with you - I've been reviewing luxury sports sedans for over a decade, and the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport has been one of those vehicles that keeps popping up in conversations with my readers. People either love it or wonder why it exists. So today, I'm tackling the most common questions I receive about this controversial yet fascinating vehicle.

What exactly makes the Q50 Red Sport different from standard Q50 models?

When you slide behind the wheel of the Red Sport, the first thing that grabs you - quite literally - is that handcrafted 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 pumping out 400 horsepower. That's 95 more horses than the base model, and believe me, you feel every single one of them. The suspension gets upgraded, the brakes become massive 14-inch rotors up front, and you get gorgeous 19-inch wheels. It's like comparing a regular basketball team to one that's on a winning streak - similar foundation, but completely different execution. Speaking of streaks, this reminds me of how Nueva Ecija maintained their composure when GenSan threatened at 75-77 with just 2 minutes and 54 seconds left in their recent game. The Red Sport maintains its composure too when pushed to the limits, delivering power consistently rather than in unpredictable bursts.

How does it actually drive on both daily commutes and spirited runs?

Here's where the Red Sport truly surprised me. During my week with the vehicle, I found it remarkably comfortable for grocery runs and school pickups, yet absolutely thrilling when I found some winding backroads. The steering has received criticism for being numb, but I actually appreciate its predictability. It's like that moment when Nueva Ecija stood its ground against GenSan's pressure - the Q50 maintains its character regardless of the situation. The Warriors were held to just a free throw while Nueva Ecija came through with six out of eight tries to seal their ninth straight win. Similarly, the Red Sport delivers consistent performance whether you're navigating traffic or pushing it on an open highway.

Is the interior and technology package competitive in 2024?

Now we're getting to the controversial part. The dual-screen infotainment system feels dated compared to German rivals, and I'll admit it took me a solid two days to get comfortable with the interface. However, the materials are premium, the seats are incredibly supportive for long drives, and the cabin remains quiet at highway speeds. It's not perfect, but neither are most vehicles in this segment. The Red Sport knows its strengths and plays to them, much like how successful teams focus on their winning strategies rather than trying to be perfect at everything.

What about reliability and ownership costs?

Having spoken with multiple long-term owners, the consensus is that the VR30 engine has proven remarkably robust. Maintenance costs run about 15-20% lower than German competitors, though resale value isn't quite as strong. If you're planning to keep the car beyond the warranty period, this becomes a significant advantage. The Q50 Red Sport builds on a platform that's been refined over years, creating a product that consistently delivers - similar to how consistent performance leads to impressive streaks in any field.

How does it compare to rivals like the BMW M340i or Audi S4?

This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? The Germans offer sharper handling and more prestigious badges, but the Red Sport counters with better value and that intoxicating V6 soundtrack. During my testing, I found the Infiniti more engaging than I expected, though less precise than the BMW. It's like comparing different championship teams - each has its unique approach to winning. The Red Sport chooses raw power and dramatic presence over surgical precision, and for many buyers, that's exactly what they want.

Should you buy a used 2019 Q50 Red Sport today?

Having driven nearly every sports sedan on the market, I can confidently say the 2019 Q50 Red Sport represents exceptional value in today's used car market. Prices have depreciated significantly from the original $55,000-plus starting point, and you're getting 90% of the performance of German rivals at 60% of the cost. The key is finding one with good service history and preferably still under factory warranty.

Final verdict: Is the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport worth buying?

If you've read this far, you probably sense my conflicted enthusiasm for this vehicle. The 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport isn't the best sports sedan in every category, but it delivers where it counts - thrilling acceleration, dramatic styling, and surprising daily usability. It's like that crucial game moment when everything hangs in the balance - the Red Sport consistently delivers when you need it most. For the right buyer who values performance and presence over perfection, the answer to "Is the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport Worth Buying?" is a resounding yes. Just be prepared to explain to your friends why you chose it over the obvious German options - though after they experience that intoxicating acceleration, they'll probably understand completely.