BMW M3
Lexus RC F
both making their debuts at Detroit, is the
Q50 Eau Rouge
Infiniti's surprise riposte? The car that launches Infiniti into the super saloon fray? Not exactly.
In the official spec table for the Eau Rouge, there is absolutely no mention of mechanical details. It's wider than the standard car and comes with a host of natty carbon bits but it seems the Eau Rouge really is nothing more than a design concept. For now.
Have fun explaining that fog light
Infiniti's President Johan de Nysschen has said "If we built this car I would expect it to feature over 500hp and 600lb/ft of torque. Through our various alliance partners we have access to a range of engines featuring this performance capability... The engine we are evaluating for the Q50 Eau Rouge is a big personality, V-cylinder engine with forced induction." This is the
GT-R
So perhaps not all hope it lost yet. Until then, a concept that 'hunkers down with menace and intent' will have to suffice. The 20mm increase in width combined with the bigger exhausts and wheels, carbon body addenda and boot spoiler do at least lend the Q50's shape some much needed aggression. We're not so sure about the 'unmistakably Formula One' single rear fog, but it's certainly a step in the right direction.
There aren't any interior pics yet, but it sounds similar to the outside; lots of red, lots of carbon and lots of F1 influences.
As a 'design vision for a high performance Q50', the Eau Rouge is encouraging. There are hints of the Lexus IS F in its appearance, which certainly wouldn't be a bad template to follow. Until the 'ifs', 'potential' and 'glimpses' disappear though, it remains mildly intriguing rather than properly fascinating. Stick that GT-R engine and come back soon please Infiniti.
