Best & Worst Year of Infiniti Q60: The Ultimate Reliability, Safety & Buying Bible (2014–2022)
🔰 Definition & What is Infiniti Q60? (Full Context)
The Infiniti Q60 is a luxury sport coupe that succeeded the G37 coupe. Produced from 2014 to 2022, it represents Infiniti’s bold design language — sharp “double-arch” grille, dramatic power dome hood, and a low-slung silhouette. Two generations exist: first generation (2014–2015) based on the FM platform with a naturally aspirated VQ37VHR V6, and second generation (2017–2022) built on an updated FM platform with lightweight materials and the VR30DDTT twin-turbo V6. Why does it matter? Because the VR30’s reliability varies drastically by model year — that’s the core of this guide.
Key defining traits: Rear-wheel-drive biased AWD, available adaptive steering (DAS), and a driver-centric cockpit. The Q60 competes with the BMW 4 Series, Audi A5, Mercedes C-Class Coupe, and Lexus RC. Its main advantage: potent twin-turbo power at a used price point often $5k–10k less than German rivals.
⚙️ Why the Q60? + Complete Types (Trims & Specs)
Why buy an Infiniti Q60? Stunning looks, strong aftermarket tuning, reliable VR30 (after 2019), and comfortable grand touring ride. The Q60 offers three core engines:
Mercedes M274 2.0L turbo I4. Fuel efficient but less reliable timing chain issues. Not recommended for long-term.
VR30DDTT (low-output). Sweet spot: responsive, tuneable to 400hp with simple mods, robust cooling.
High-boost VR30, upgraded turbos, unique water pump, sport-tuned suspension, 14″ brakes. 0-60 in 4.5s.
All trims available with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (snow mode). For best ownership, choose 3.0T Luxe or Red Sport 400 from 2020+.
🛡️ Is the Infiniti Q60 Safe? Crash Tests & Active Safety
Absolutely safe — 5-star NHTSA overall rating for 2017-2022 models. IIHS gave “Good” scores in all moderate overlap front, side, roof strength tests. Standard safety: rearview camera, traction control, 6 airbags. Higher trims include Forward Emergency Braking (with pedestrian detection), Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Intervention (steering assist), Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control with semi-autonomous steering assist (ProACTIVE package after 2019). The Q60’s high-strength steel cage provides excellent occupant protection. So yes — it’s safe for daily, spirited, or highway driving.
✅ Advantages & Disadvantages of Infiniti Q60 (Owners Perspective)
✨ Advantages
- ✔ Stunning coupe design — turns heads daily.
- ✔ VR30 engine (3.0T) offers massive tuning potential.
- ✔ Excellent used value: save thousands vs BMW 430i.
- ✔ High-quality interior materials (semi-aniline leather in Red Sport).
- ✔ Strong reliability after 2019 with routine maintenance.
- ✔ Available AWD provides all-season confidence.
⚠️ Disadvantages
- ❌ Rear seats are cramped — adults suffer on long trips.
- ❌ Infotainment lag on pre-2020 models (dual-screen).
- ❌ Early VR30 (2017-2018) prone to turbo seal & belt failure.
- ❌ No manual transmission offered after 2017.
- ❌ Discontinued in 2022 — some parts may become pricier but aftermarket support strong.
🏆 Best Years of Infiniti Q60 (Ranked #1 to #3)
Why it’s the absolute best: Factory fixes for all major VR30 issues (new turbo oil seals, revised belt tensioner, upgraded cooling). Apple CarPlay & Android Auto added, improved steering feel, better sound insulation. Minimal complaints in NHTSA database. Reliability index: 9.2/10.
Ideal picks: 2020 Q60 3.0T Luxe AWD or Red Sport 400.
2019 introduced new turbo wastegate design, improved engine management. Most early glitches resolved. No CarPlay, but solid mechanically. Slight risk of infotainment freeze. Good value — often $3k less than 2020.
✔ Recommended if budget matters.
Last production year, features “Kuro” or “Red Sport 400” special editions, dark chrome accents, all updates. Very low failure rate. Highest resale value. One drawback: higher initial cost.
⚠️ Worst Years of Infiniti Q60 (Absolute Avoid List)
Nightmare year: Accessory belt separation (left drivers stranded), porous engine block causing coolant loss, turbocharger coolant leaks, oil consumption, and electrical issues (backup camera failure). Multiple recalls (R1721, R1722). Avoid at all costs unless engine replaced under warranty.
Shared many 2017 components. Turbos still prone to wastegate rattle, water pump failure. Late 2018 production (after July) slightly better but inspect thoroughly. Do not buy without PPI and turbo health check.
VQ37VHR engine is bulletproof, but transmission (7-speed) feels outdated, interior feels 2008-era, and rear subframe rusts in salt states. No modern safety aids. Only for bargain hunters under $12k.
💥 Critical warning: If you find a 2017 Q60 with extremely low miles, it may still have latent defects. The belt misalignment alone can shred the serpentine belt, causing overheating and steering loss. Always verify if the owner completed campaign fixes (ITB18-013, ITB17-025).
📘 How to Choose the Best Infiniti Q60 (Step-by-Step Buying Guide)
- Step 1 – Target model years: Focus on 2020-2022 for peace of mind. If budget is tight, 2019 with service records.
- Step 2 – Get a pre-purchase inspection (PPI): Specialist should check turbo coolant lines, belt tensioner, oil leaks around valve covers, and run a diagnostic for wastegate codes.
- Step 3 – Verify maintenance: Oil changes every 5k miles (not the 10k suggested by Infiniti). Look for records of transmission fluid change at 60k.
- Step 4 – Test drive quirks: Listen for belt squeal at startup, rattling from turbos after hot engine, and check both screens for delamination.
- Step 5 – Avoid modified examples: Downpipes or tune without supporting mods may have stressed turbos. Stick to stock or mild bolt-ons with dyno sheets.
📊 Year-by-Year Reliability & Problem Score (2014–2022)
| Year | Generation/Engine | Reliability Score | Top Problems (frequency) | Final Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014-2015 | 1st Gen / VQ37VHR | ★★★☆☆ | Rust subframe, outdated 7AT, gallery gasket (rare) | OK for low budget |
| 2017 | 2nd Gen / VR30 (first) | ★☆☆☆☆ | Belt failure (35% of early cars), turbo coolant leak, porous block | DO NOT BUY |
| 2018 | 2nd Gen / VR30 | ★★☆☆☆ | Wastegate rattle, water pump leaks, some belt chirping | Caution + PPI required |
| 2019 | 2nd Gen / VR30 (revised) | ★★★★☆ | Minor infotainment, very rare oil weep | Good, recommended |
| 2020 | 2nd Gen / VR30 final tune | ★★★★★ | Almost none — CarPlay lag reported by few | Best overall |
| 2021 | 2nd Gen | ★★★★★ | No widespread issues; solid | Top-tier pick |
| 2022 | 2nd Gen (Final) | ★★★★★ | None; high satisfaction | Excellent but pricey |
💰 Use Cases & Total Ownership Cost (Real Data)
Who is the Q60 for? Daily drivers wanting style & speed without German depreciation. Great for singles, couples, or as a second car. For families — rear seats are tight, but trunk fits two carry-ons. Annual maintenance for a 2020 Q60: $550–$800 (oil, filters, inspections). Turbos if they fail on a 2017: $3,500–$5,000. Insurance costs average $1,400/year. Depreciation: used 2020 models now range $28k–$34k, far less than original $52k. Smart buy if you avoid the bad years.
Tuning use case: VR30 can reach 450 whp with heat exchanger, downpipes, and ECU tune — popular among enthusiasts. But for reliability, keep near-stock on 2020+ models.
