1998 INFINITI Q45 Press Kit

As INFINITI’s flagship Q45 enters its ninth year of production, much has changed in the world around it. Yet true to its position as a one of the world’s great luxury performance sedans, the 1998 Q45 continues with its heritage of elegance and performance firmly intact.

“Though the Q45 was completely redesigned last year and continues to be refined for 1998, the character of the car remains the same as the one that stood the automotive world on its head nearly ten years ago,” said Tom Eastwood, vice president, INFINITI Division. “The Q45 is a vehicle that embraces and rewards both driver and passengers – surrounding them in luxury, security and an elegance of form.”

Following a mid-1997 introduction of front-seat side air bags, the 1998 Q45 adds front-seat belt pre-tensioners with load limiters. The instrument panel also receives a new LCD odometer with dual trip meters and “Touring” script lettering is now embroidered on Q45t floormats.

Exterior Design
For 1998, the Q45 continues to stand out among its look-alike luxury brethren. From the strong front grille to the inverse curve of C-pillar -- the elegant styling of the Q45 engages the eye and sends a message of “luxury with performance.”

Exacting exterior details give the Q45 its unique qualities. Such features include its strong horizontal “bone” – an etched character line that runs the entire length of the vehicle near the top of the beltline. Visually, the “bone” underscores the substance and solidity of the Q45, while creating a character for the vehicle that implies smoothness and elegance. Items ranging from its 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels to jewel-like halogen headlights also let it be known that performance is of equal emphasis both outside and under the hood.

Interior Design
The Q45’s interior designers also adopted the goal of creating a sedan that was inherently luxurious, but retained the soul of sportiness. That objective was achieved by the creation of a sumptuous interior – the supple leather seating surfaces, the increased roominess between the driver and passenger areas – while still maintaining a sporty driver’s feel.

As always, driver ergonomics are exceptional, with all gauges and controls within the driver’s close proximity. Extra space between the driver and front passenger creates a roomy feeling, while the center console is widened and angled toward the driver for greater access and easier driveability.

Engine/Suspension
Performance has always been a hallmark of the INFINITI flagship, which again holds true in 1998. With the introduction of an all-new drivetrain and refined suspension in 1997, the Q45 provides the acceleration and handling of a sports coupe along with the comfort and security of a luxury sedan.

The 4.1-liter DOHC V8 provides superior power throughout the driving range, with an exceptional level of smooth, quiet operation. The Electronic Concentrated Control System computer manages the 32-valve engine and electronic multi-point fuel injection system, providing 266 horsepower at 5,600 rpm. Torque is rated at 278 ft-lbs at 4,000 rpm improvements.

The Q45’s refined suspension emphasizes ride comfort and handling. Rigid unibody construction provides the foundation for exceptional riding comfort, better maneuverability and handling response, and greater interior isolation from road noise. Both the front and rear suspensions use a sophisticated full-floating subframe mounted at four points to reduce vibration.

The front suspension design uses MacPherson struts with coil springs to offer ease of handling, balance and lightness of feel and improved noise reduction. The front suspension design maximizes handling and stability by minimizing camber change during cornering. The rear independent multi-link suspension connects the rear wheels to the chassis with three links instead of two. This allows more tire contact to the road so handling is more agile and precise, with less body roll during cornering and braking.

INFINITI’s Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on the 1998 Q45. TCS is designed to supplement the Q45’s Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VSLD) to provide an even higher level of all-condition driving performance and control by automatically engaging when both rear tires are slipping. As a result, handling and control are improved in most road conditions.

Safety
The 1998 Q45 offers advanced safety and security features for “comfort of mind.” From the headlights to the ignition key, every element of the vehicle is designed to provide the most modern safety system available.

The Q45 offers protection in both active and passive safety systems. From the advanced engine and suspension, to enlarged 4-wheel disc brakes modulated through a 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System, to strengthened side impact protection beams, the Q45 provides drivers the security they need.

Also featured are standard driver’s and passenger’s side air bags, front-seat side air bags, seat belt pre-tensioners with load limiters, child safety rear door locks, child seat anchors, front and rear crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column and knee bolsters.

The standard INFINITI Personalized Protection System (IPPS) uses an electronically coated key which is recognized by the ignition system. Without the correct magnetic code, the engine will not start. Each key has a unique code and the ignition system can recognize up to five keys. Additional security measures include an 8-way keyless remote entry system and standard vehicle security system.

Model Availability
Every INFINITI Q45 comes fully equipped with the state-of-the-art features and amenities that luxury consumers require. The power behind each Q45 is a 4.1-liter DOHC V8 engine, accompanied by electronically-controlled, vehicle speed sensitive, power-assisted rack and pinion steering; TCS; and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with three-channel, four-sensor anti-lock braking system (ABS).

In addition, each Q45 comes with 16-inch alloy wheels and tires; power sliding sunroof with tilt feature; integrated fog lights; and jewel-like halogen headlamps. Inside, the Q45 offers a leather-appointed interior; wood-tone appointments; 10-way power front seats; dual air bags and front-seat side air bags; and a keyless remote entry system.

Among the advanced technologies available is the HomeLink TM transmitter system, which consolidates the functions of as many as three individual hand held radio frequency activated transmitters into one device located in the driver’s side sun visor. For added safety the HomeLink transmitter now operates with a system of “rolling codes,” making it more difficult to intercept a HomeLink transmission. Audiophiles will also enjoy the Q45’s 200-watt Bose audio system with cassette, CD and eight speakers.
 
For Q45 buyers who seek the ultimate in sporty looks and performance, the Touring Edition model features a sport-tuned suspension, 5-spoke performance cast alloy wheels, a distinctive rear spoiler, a black grille, heated seats and a trunk mounted, 6-disc CD changer all in addition to the base model features. The Touring Model also features the “t” badging (Q45t) on the rear deck lid.

The 1998 Q45 is available in the following colors: Black Obsidian, Bordeaux Pearl, Cypress Pearl, Espresso, Ivory Quartz, Pewter and Silver Crystal. There are three leather-appointed interior colors: Beige, Stone Beige and Black.

Like all INFINITI models, the Q45 is protected by some of the best warranties in the industry: a 4-year/60,000-mile Basic New Vehicle Limited Warranty; a 6-year/70,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty (protection for major engine and driveline components); a 5-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle Emission Control Limited Warranty; and a 7-year/unlimited mileage Corrosion Limited Warranty.

As part of The Total Ownership Experience, INFINITI also provides buyers with a 48-month, 24-hour roadside assistance program – one of the most comprehensive available. A free INFINITI loan car is provided at participating dealers during the basic warranty period when requested with scheduled service appointments (subject to availability). INFINITI's satellite parts network also minimizes delays in service.