2002 Infiniti Q45

What is it?
2002 Infiniti Q45

What's special about it?
The Q45 will be substantially revised for the 2002 model year. Compared to the current model, the 2002 will be wider and taller. It will also have a 2-inch longer wheelbase and increased interior and luggage space. Exterior styling highlights include high-intensity-discharge headlight projector arrays, a large front grille, a sculpted hood, large taillights and a choice between 17- or 18-inch wheels.

Under the hood is a 4.5-liter 32-valve V8. Infiniti says it generates 340 horsepower and 333 foot-pounds of torque. It's connected to a five-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential-shifting mode. Zero-to-60 acceleration is expected to be less than six seconds.

Handling capabilities should be improved thanks to a new suspension design and a body that has 40 percent more torsional rigidity. The 2002 Q45 also comes with Vehicle Dynamic Control. This system improves vehicle stability by controlling brake pressure and engine torque during emergency situations. Electronic Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution are also standard equipment.

The new Q also has a wide range of features. A new Adaptive Cruise Control system uses the throttle and brakes to maintain a preset distance between the Q45 and the vehicle ahead of it. Inside the cabin, a 7-inch LCD touch screen displays various vehicle systems, including a DVD-based navigation system and the view from the rear-facing video camera. This camera is mounted near the rear license plate and its view is automatically displayed when the driver selects reverse. Smile!

Why should you care?
The 2002 Q45 looks to be a major improvement over the current model. Infiniti's top model should go from being an afterthought to a major contender in the luxury market. There's only one problem: it won't be at Infiniti dealerships until April 2001. That's a long time for the new Lexus LS 430 to collect a loyal following.