FORD TRANSIT 350 L2 DIESEL RWD 2.0 EcoBlue 130ps Leader Tipper [1 Way] [DAP]

By Jonathan Crouch

Introduction

Infiniti's Q50 is a mid-sized premium executive saloon sold between 2014 and 2020 that focused primarily on luxury and technology in its efforts to offer buyers in this segment something genuinely different. Later versions of this model offered improvements that made a big difference to this car's driveability, with changes to the steering and suspension that made it more engaging on the move. The result is an often-overlooked contender that might just surprise you.

Models

5dr family hatch (1.75-litre)

History

The mid-sized executive saloon. Think of this kind of car and you think of BMW's 3 Series, Audi's A4 or the Mercedes C-Class - maybe also Jaguar's XE. These four models dominated this segment in the 21st century's second decade but did so in such a way that choosing one of them become something of a lazy, predictable choice. So, what if you like this kind of car but, in choosing a used model from the 2014 to 2020 era, want a stylishly different alternative. Well you might like to try something like this, the Infiniti Q50. There are, of course, other options in the segment from this period if you want to go your own way, but they usually come with caveats attached. A Volvo S60 isn't quite classy enough, an Alfa Romeo Giulia has uncertain residuals and a Lexus IS can't be had as a diesel. This Q50 model, in contrast, seems - at first glance at least - to offer a more credible alternative to mainstream mundanity. It's attractive, beautifully made, extremely well equipped and built with Mercedes engineering. Interested yet? The Q50 was the Infiniti brand's first really credible European offering, launched in 2014, then significantly updated three years later with some significant packaging and handling updates. It's certainly not lacking technology. Take the clever 'Direct Adaptive Steering' system original buyers could have on plusher models, which was the world's first digital steering system and a set-up upgraded with various developments as part of the 2017 facelift. It effectively allows the car to control itself, while also offering various ways to tailor the response you get at the wheel. More noteworthy features are found in pricier petrol models. Things like V6 hybrid power with the option of AWD. And a 'Dynamic Digital Suspension' system that aimed to set new standards for adaptive damping. It all amounts to a somewhat unlikely confection and ultimately, it didn't work because Infiniti pulled out of Europe in 2019. But does the Q50 make sense as a used buy? Let's find out.

What You Get

Styling is something of a unique Infiniti selling point. This is what drew people to the brand's smaller Q30 hatch and it's certainly always been an attraction of this Q50 saloon. It's common in the mid-sized executive class for any given contender to be merely a visually scaled-down version of a larger full-Executive sector model, which isn't really very imaginative. It was a welcome change then, to see that Infiniti cut the Q50 from a different cloth. There's certainly nothing else in the segment from this era that looks quite the same. Behind the wheel, the premium feel you get on upper-spec models is also reflected right down the range - in contrast to German rivals where base models tend to make it very clear how little you've spent. Leather upholstery is standard providing you avoid entry-level trim and 'Sport' models get emphasised side bolsters that provide a little more cornering support. The first thing you're likely to notice in the Q50's cabin though, lies on the centre stack. Infiniti decided that Q50 drivers needed not one but two infotainment screens, an 8-inch upper one and a 7-inch lower one. The higher monitor deals mainly with the navigation and surround view camera systems (where fitted), the display of which you can alter via a rotary controller below the gearstick. Below that is the rocker switch for the 'driving mode selector' system, the options for which also display on the upper screen. Switch your gaze to the lower 7-inch display and you'll enter the world of Infiniti 'InTouch', a set-up that not only delivers the usual Phone, stereo and information functions but also allows you to run your life as effectively from inside your Q50 as you can from your smartphone. In the rear, you'll find one of the more spacious rear cabins in the sector from this era. As usual in a car of this class, there's a high central transmission tunnel to prevent the comfortable carriage of three adults, but two folk get reasonable leg and shoulder room by segment standards. As for the boot, well the cargo space is deep, but not especially wide due to wheel arch intrusion. In the diesel variant, you get 450-litres of room.

What You Pay

Please contact us for an exact up-to-date valuation.

What to Look For

There were some issues reported regarding the brake pedal feeling spongy, so check for that on the test drive. To fix this, you have to replace the master cylinder - not cheap; some owners reported that this was an ongoing issue for them. They had to take it back to the dealership a few more times for the same problem with the master cylinder. Other owners have highlighted problems with the sat-nav, the touchscreens and Bluetooth connectivity. Check the leather upholstery for cuts and stains. And inspect the alloy wheels for kerbing damage. Check all the electrical functions too. Otherwise, it's just the usual things: insist on a fully stamped-up service history.

Replacement Parts

(approx based on a 2016 Q30 2.0T excl. VAT) An oil filter costs around £16, an air filter is in the £51 bracket. Front brake pads are around £66 for a set; a rear pad set is around £58. A rear brake disc is around £88. A wiper blade is in the £11 bracket.

On the Road

Infiniti may be Nissan's luxury brand but the engineering here is anything but mainstream. It's not only that the volume 2.2-litre diesel variants borrowed their engine from Mercedes: it's also that some of the technology potentially available in this car was genuinely cutting-edge. Take the steering system. It's the thing people talked about most when it came to the driving dynamics of this car. That's because this model was first launched with the option of what Infiniti called 'Direct Adaptive Steering' - or 'DAS' - the first 'drive-by-wire' system to steer a car. Using this set-up, your intentions aren't transmitted to the wheel via the usual steering column. Instead, inputs from the steering wheel are processed via electronics, then motors replicate your commands at the wheels. The advantages of this system lie in the fact that steering inputs should be quicker, plus steering kickback and vibration should be all but eradicated. Away from steering, there's plenty else to talk about. The 170bhp diesel unit isn't class-leadingly efficient but its returns - up to 65.7mpg and 114g/km of CO2 (both NEDC figures) - will probably be acceptable for most potential buyers. Of course, the rarer more powerful petrol variants further up the range can't match that. There are three to choose from, a 211PS 2.0-litre turbo variant, a 400PS 3.0-litre V6 twin turbo model and a 306PS Hybrid derivative that from new could also be ordered with AWD. Across the range, buyers get a 'Drive Mode Selector' that can tweak steering, throttle and gear change feel. And the top 3.0-litre variant showcases a clever 'Dynamic Digital Suspension' system that constantly reacts to the road surface.

Overall

We can't help liking the Q50. It did, after all, offer an intriguingly different option in what can be a rather predictable segment. And in contrast to obvious rivals from this era who feel the need to slavishly follow the dominant brands in offering perceived 'sportiness', it brought an unashamed focus on refinement and luxury that we think most typical buyers on the used market would actually rather appreciate. To be one, you'll need to be an understanding sort. You don't get class-leading efficiency figures here, or the support of a vast dealer network. And, as we've suggested, drive dynamics focus on lowering your heartbeat, rather than raising it. Against all that though, there's plenty that'll draw you to this car. From its handsome looks to its spacious, well appointed cabin, it pampers its passengers in a way that few of its rivals do. The Q50 isn't an obvious choice but, for the right kind of buyer, it could be a very satisfying one.

Body Glass

Driver one touch up/down power windows

Complete tinted glass

Automatic front wipers with rain sensor

Brakes

Dual circuit front and rear discs with self adjusting servo assistance

Curve control

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Brakes - ESP/HLA/FBS

Side wind mitigation

Roll stability control

Emergency brake assist

Electronic dynamic cornering control

Load adaptive control

Hill start assist

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribuition (EBD)

Chassis/Suspension

Rear axle Alt A - Narrow track

Front axle rating - 1850KG

Front independent MacPheron struts, linear rate coil springs, stabiliser bar, gas pressured shock absorbers and rear leaf springs

Communication

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Driver Aids

Electric power assisted steering (EPAS)

Emergency brake warning

Intelligent Speed Assist

Collision mitigation system

Driver Convenience

Wander lead control

Ford Easy Fuel capless refuelling system with misfuel inhibit

Driver Information

Emergency assistance

Warning lights

Vehicle maintenance monitor

Gearshift indicator light

Wrong way alert

Selectable drive modes - Normal, Slippery and Eco

Water in fuel filter sensor

8" Part digital instrument cluster

Driving Mirrors

Door mirrors - Blind spot eliminator and integrated side indicator

Day/Night inside mirror

Electrical

2 x 12V power outlets

Engine

AdBlue aftertreatment system - 24 Litre

Sngle fuel tank - 70 Litres

Battery - Cold start function (-20 degree C)

Start/stop system

Entertainment

Audio controls mounted on steering wheel

4 Front speakers (2 woofers and 2 tweeters)

Exterior Body Features

Cab protector mounting and lashing points

Part body colour front bumper

Self colour door handles

Self colour front grille

Exhaust exit behind muff down

Roof mounted radio antenna

Low roof line

Unperforated cab back panel

Roof mounted fin antenna

Wide self colour bodyside mouldings

High strength lightweight steel subframe

Smooth side boards for ease of signwriting

Powder coated white aluminium sideboards and tailboards with auto rear tip feature

Exterior Lights

Rear fog lamps

Automatic on/off headlights

Halogen projector headlights

Adaptive front lighting system

Daytime running lights

Quad beam headlamps

Halogen headlamps

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Recirculation heater

Interior Features

4-Spoke Polyurethane steering wheel

Front door map pockets

Cab easy clean rubber floor covering

Cab moulded headlining

Centre console

Overhead console

Reach and rake adjustable steering column

Tablet holder

2-way head restraints on front seats

Overhead console

Underseat storage compartment (Under dual passenger seat)

Driver's side storage compartment on facia top

Twin, 2 litre bottle capacity, fascia mounted bottle holder

Interior Lights

Header mounted courtesy lights front with theatre dimming

Load Area

Rope hooks

Less load compartment loops

Safety

Hydraulic body lock down safety device

Driver's airbag

Tyre pressure sensors

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Driver and passenger seatbelt reminder

3-point diagonal inertia reel seatbelts for all front seats

Front side and curtain airbags

Front passenger's airbag including airbag deactivation switch

Driver seatbelt pre-tensioner

Multi stage vehicle

Security

Multi channel door entry remote

Key operated bonnet release

Visible Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Power central locking

Remote control central locking with 1 key fob

Auto locking on drive away, doors automatically lock at 5 mph

Audio mis-lock feedback, audible signal if a door is ajar when locking activated

Immobiliser - Safeguard passive anti-theft system (PATS)

Transmission

Non limited slip differential front axle

Wheels

Wheel hub caps

Emissions - ICE

CO2: 181

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

Noise Level dB(A): N

CO: N

NOx: N

HC+NOx: N

Particles: N

HC: N

Engine and Drive Train

CC: 1996

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Valve gear: DOHC

Fuel Type: DIESEL

Catalytic Convertor: No

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Gears: 6 SPEED

Engine Make: N

Fuel Delivery: COMMON RAIL

Cooling System: WATER

Automatic Transmission: 0

Manual Transmission: No

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC: 0

EC Urban: 38.7

EC Extra Urban: 43.5

EC Combined: 40.9

General

Insurance Group 1: N

Insurance Group 2: N

Chassis Engine Number: N

Vin/Frame No.: N

Coin Series: N

Coin Description: N

Exhaust System: EGR

Front Brakes: DISCS

Rear Brakes: DISCS

Hand Brake: REAR WHEELS

Front Suspension: MACPHERSON STRUTS

Rear Suspension: LEAF SPRINGS

Steering: RACK AND PINION

Clutch: SINGLE DRY PLATE

Did at least one aspect of this vehicles safety give cause for concern?: 0

Coin Wheelbase Description Code: N

Coin Wheelbase Name Code: N

Coin Gross Vehicle Weight Code: N

Coin Power Output Code: N

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Running Cost League Headings: LARGE

Ghost model for valuation purposes: 0

Service Interval Mileage: 25000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 24

Timing Belt Interval Mileage: 150000

Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months: 120

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: N

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: N

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: N

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: N

NCAP Safety Assist %: 60

Badge Engine CC: 2.0

Badge Power: 130

Vehicle Homologation Class: N1

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: 0

Generation Mark: 4

NCAP Overall Rating - LCV: Gold

Relative Height: H1

Relative Length: L2

Performance

0 to 62: N

Top Speed: N

BHP: 130

PS: No

0 to 60: N

Engine Power KW: 96

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 235/65 R16

Tyre Size Rear: 235/65 R16

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 16" STEEL

Wheel Style: N

Tyre Make: N

Plated 3rd Axle: N

Plated 4th Axle: N

Alloys?: 0

Space Saver?: 0

Automatic Clutch: 0

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 5829

Length: 5829

Width (excluding mirrors): 2052

Wheelbase: 3504

Width (including mirrors): 2474

Height: 2220

Height (including roof rails): N

Load Length: 3200

Load Width: 2030

Load Height: N

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 12.6

Front Overhang: 1023

Rear Overhang: 1045

Side Load Door Width: N

Side Load Door Height: N

Lower Rear Door Width: N

Upper Rear Door Width: N

Rear Door Height: N

Load Deck Height: N

Load Space Width Between Wheel Arches: N

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 1795

Gross Vehicle Weight: 3500

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 70

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 3000

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Payload: 1705

Load Space Volume: N

Boot Capacity Saloons: N

Luggage Capacity - 2nd Row Seats Up: N

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): N

Luggage Capacity - 3rd Row Seats Up: N

Luggage Capacity - 3rd Row Seats Down: N

Luggage Capacity - 2nd Row Seats Removed: N

Luggage Capacity - 3rd Row Seats Removed: N

No. of Seats: 3

Max. Roof Load: N

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): N

Plated Front Axle: 1750

Plated 2nd Axle: 2150

Gross Train Weight: 6500

Body Glass

Electric windshield defroster

Fixed panel rear window

Driver Aids

VP modification centre

Reverse gear alarm

Driver Information

Digital, electronic, 24-hour Tachograph

Tachograph - wiring

Driving Mirrors

Dual power heated signal mirrors - Auto fold

Dual power heated signal mirrors

Driver large head/long arm mirror

Electrical

Auxiliary instrument panel console - 2 DIN Horizontal

Heavy duty starter motor (-29 degree C)

Twin H8 AGM xtra heavy duty Batteries

H8 95AH AGM single Battery

Power point plug 400W - Level 2 with Heavy duty battery

Vehicle integration system

Engine

Manual regeneration initiation

56MPH engine governor

62MPH engine governor

70MPH engine governor

Engine RPM controller

75MPH engine governor

Smart acceleration truncation

Exterior Body Features

Front splash guards/Mud flaps

Metallic paint

Premium paint

Auxiliary fuel port

Special solid paint

Exterior Lights

Static bending headlights

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Front air conditioning with electric automatic temperature control (EATC)

Interior Features

Console ashtray

Lockable glovebox with lid and A 4 file storage capability

Interior Lights

Conf int light/battery saver - 30 minutes

Packs

Driver assistance pack 15 - Transit

Dual rear wheel pack 2 - Transit chassis

Seat package 3 - Transit with Quadrant City Cloth

Seat package 4 - Transit with Quadrant City Cloth

Seat package 5 - Transit with Quadrant City Cloth

Seat pack 4A - Transit with Vinyl Crosshatch Salerno

Seat pack 17A - Transit Quadrant City Cloth

Seat pack 12A - Transit Quadrant City Cloth

Seat pack 11A - Transit Quadrant City Cloth

Roof Conversion Prep Pack without Cab Roof - Transit

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Moondust silver

Metallic - Blue

Metallic - Agate black

Metallic - Magnetic

Paint - Solid

Solid - Frozen white

Paint - Special

Special solid - Race red

Special solid - Blazer blue

Premium - Matt grey

Safety

First aid kit with first aid retain strap

Chassis cab cutaway

Fire extinguisher fixings

Security

Configurable unlocking 3

Power door locks

Configurable unlocking 7

Stolen vehicle recovery system

Fleet key

Keyless entry and start passive

Perimeter anti theft alarm system

Thatcham category 1 alarm with metal bulkhead and door Entry remote control unit - 2 Fobs

Towing

Trailer tow attachments

Trailer tow electrics

Trim - Cloth

Seat pack 11A - Quadrant City Cloth - Dark Palazzo Grey

Seat pack 12A - Quadrant City Cloth - Dark Palazzo Grey

Seat pack 17A - Quadrant City Cloth - Dark Palazzo Grey

Seat package 3 - Quadrant City Cloth - Dark Palazzo Grey

Seat package 4 - Quadrant City Cloth - Dark Palazzo Grey

Seat package 5 - Quadrant City Cloth - Dark Palazzo Grey

Seat pack 6A - Quadrant City Cloth - Dark Palazzo Grey

Trim - Vinyl

Seat pack 4A - Vinyl Crosshatch Salerno - Dark Palazzo Grey

Wheels

Tyre vendor - Continental standard tread

Tyre Vendor - goodyear all weather tread

Wheels - Spare

Conventional steel spare wheel