The Infiniti Q60 I Convertible IPL 3.7 V6 Automatic, produced between 2014 and 2016, represented the performance-oriented variant of Infiniti’s luxury convertible offering. Positioned as a step above the standard Q60 Convertible, the IPL (Infiniti Performance Line) model aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience through enhanced engine output and revised chassis tuning. It was part of the first generation (Q60 I) of the convertible, based on the underlying architecture shared with the Nissan 370Z. The Q60 Convertible competed with other premium drop-top coupes like the BMW 4 Series Convertible, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet, and Lexus IS C.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | Q60 |
| Generation | Q60 I Convertible |
| Type (Engine) | IPL 3.7 V6 (348 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 183.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 348 Hp @ 7400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 94.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 5200 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ37VHR |
| Engine displacement | 3696 cm3 (225.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2304 kg (5079.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 404 kg (890.67 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4707 mm (185.31 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear track | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 225/45 R19 92W; 245/40 R19 94W |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Q60 IPL Convertible was the VQ37VHR 3.7-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of Nissan’s highly regarded VQ family, was specifically tuned for the IPL model to produce 348 horsepower at 7400 rpm and 272.9 lb-ft of torque at 5200 rpm. The “VHR” designation indicated Variable Valve Timing and lift, contributing to the engine’s broad powerband. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 11:1. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. Paired with the VQ37VHR was a seven-speed automatic transmission, offering manual shift control via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. This transmission was chosen for its balance of responsiveness and comfort, catering to the convertible’s grand touring nature.
Driving Characteristics
The IPL variant offered a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the standard Q60 Convertible. The increased horsepower and torque, combined with the responsive seven-speed automatic, resulted in quicker acceleration and improved passing power. While not a dedicated sports car, the IPL provided a satisfying level of performance for a luxury convertible. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as aggressively geared as some dual-clutch transmissions found in competitors, prioritizing comfort over outright speed. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced feel, although the added weight of the convertible body and the automatic transmission did impact handling agility compared to the lighter, manual-transmission Nissan 370Z coupe.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Q60 IPL Convertible came well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and a touchscreen infotainment system. IPL-specific touches included unique badging, aluminum pedal covers, and a sport steering wheel. Optional extras included navigation, a rearview camera, and advanced climate control systems. The IPL trim was positioned as the top-of-the-line Q60 Convertible, offering a more luxurious and performance-focused experience than the base models.
Chassis & Braking
The Q60 IPL Convertible featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. Infiniti made subtle revisions to the suspension tuning for the IPL model, aiming for a firmer, more controlled ride without sacrificing comfort. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The IPL also included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The steering system was an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion setup, offering a reasonable level of feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Q60 IPL Convertible for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the performance, while improved over the standard Q60, didn’t quite match that of some European competitors. Fuel economy was also a common criticism, with the 3.7-liter V6 consuming a significant amount of gasoline. Compared to the standard Q60 Convertible, the IPL offered a more premium feel and a noticeable boost in performance, justifying its higher price tag for buyers seeking a more dynamic driving experience. The 1.8L and 2.5L engine options available in other Q60 models were significantly less powerful and targeted a different, more fuel-conscious buyer.
Legacy
The Infiniti Q60 IPL Convertible, while a relatively short-lived model, remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. The VQ37VHR engine is known for its reliability, provided it receives regular maintenance. Common issues include oil consumption and potential for timing chain wear at very high mileage. The seven-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be generally reliable. Today, the IPL Convertible represents a unique blend of luxury, performance, and open-air driving enjoyment, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and well-equipped convertible.
