The future of steering?

Mike Torpey test drives the Infiniti Q50 2.0T Sport Automatic

IT sounds like a relaxing, stress-free way to drive.

A steering system whereby there’s no physical contact between the steering wheel and the car’s front wheels so you don’t feel bumps in the road.

It’s called Direct Adaptive Steering and has been introduced by Nissan’s luxury division Infiniti in the Q50 sports saloon.

It uses digital technology to link the steering wheel and wheels, resulting in a faster connection with the road and reduced vibrations.

It’s also a multi-award winner, so there must be a lot of folk out there who really appreciate it and DAS is something you become more accustomed to with time, even though at first it can feel unusual. It’s one of several features that make the Q50 a car of considerable ability, one that stands out from the pack and offers a genuine alternative to the premium German brands.

Until the 2.0T variant arrived, Infiniti was lacking a petrolpowered Q50 other than the 3.5litre V6 of the hybrid, so this model was a must for the brand.

The lightweight 1,991cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine is certainly a good one. It develops 211ps, transmitted to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox, and can return an official 43.5 miles per gallon, though my predominantly urban driving didn’t match that figure.

Performance is handy at 0-62 in 7.2 seconds with a potential top speed of 152mph, and there are driver settings for Standard, Personal, Sport and Snow.

With the longest wheelbase in its area of the market, the Q50 has plenty of room for adult passengers and rear kneeroom is among the best.

That said, there may be five seatbelts but you wouldn’t want to be piggy in the middle as the centre rear position is perched and uncomfortable. The boot is large, though, and the 60/40 split rear seat has access to the boot via the centre armrest. On the road the Q50 looks attractive with its coupe-like styling, and boasts road-holding to match for drivers who want to stand out.