The hybrid version of the compact Infiniti Q50 hustles to 60mph in five seconds, but steer-by-wire is what really sets this car apart. Direct Adaptive Steering, Infiniti's term, is standard on the Infiniti Q50S Hybrid we tested, and optional on the gasoline engine-equipped Q50. With steer-by-wire, you turn a traditional steering wheel, and electrical impulses from the steering wheel tell the front wheels how much to turn. The system is a work in progress, with lots of potential in the future. Today, however, it lacks the road feel feedback drivers get from traditional mechanical systems. There are no weight savings because Infiniti still maintains a mechanical steering system as a failsafe backup. Overall, the Q50S Hybrid is a good option in a field of excellence led by the BMW 3 Series, the Audi A4, and our Editors' Choice, the midsize Nissan Maxima.

How Much?

The Q50S Hybrid we tested includes 19-inch alloy wheels, magnesium paddle shifters, sport brakes, a sport front bumper, sport seats, and an eight-way sport driver's seat. Prices for this trim line start at $47,705 for rear-wheel drive and $49,905 for all-wheel drive.

There are two package options available on all trim lines: a Navigation Package with voice recognition and telematics for $1,400, and a Deluxe Technology Package for $5,000. The Deluxe package includes an around-view monitor, blind spot warning and intervention (which nudges you back into your lane), forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automated low-speed braking. After a $905 destination and handling fee, the fully loaded model I tested came out to $55,905.

What Is X-By-Wire and Steer-By-Wire?
Traditionally, cars, planes, and other forms of transportation have used mechanical shafts, wires, cables, and gears for acceleration, braking, shifting, and steering. Often these mechanical systems are boosted for ease of operation (like power steering and power brakes). X-by-wire refers to the use of electronic or electro-mechanical sensors and actuators to replace the mechanical systems: throttle-by-wire for the gas pedal, shift-by-wire for the automatic transmission gear selector, brake-by-wire for the brake pedal, park-by-wire for the mechanism that locks the transmission in Park, and now steer-by-wire on the Infiniti Q50.