The facelift version of Infiniti’s highest-class luxury sedan Q70 is the epitome of Nissan’s technology and ambition.
With the same target market as the Audi A6, BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-class, the Japanese carmaker has poured the its state-of-the-art technology into this model ― from the sexy exterior based on the shape of a crouching cheetah to the powerful engine.
“We are aiming to sell 3,000 Q70 vehicles this year, alongside the best-selling sedan Q50,” Nissan Korea president Takehiko Kikuchi said to the press before a test drive event on Tuesday on Jejudo Island.
“We hope to revive the glory of the Infiniti from the late 2000s.”
The sedan has adopted the “Infiniti family look,” which was first introduced through Q50 ― the mesh-type double arch grille, the LED lamps in the shape of a human eye and others are distinctive. “We say the Q50 has opened the Infiniti look and Q70 has completed it,” said Kim Min-jo, a Nissan Korea spokesperson.
The interior’s double-wave design allows more room for the driver, and its seven-layered wooden trim and upgraded Sofilez artificial leather seating fill the space with a luxurious ambience.
The test drive was held along more than 130 kilometers of winding roads on Jejudo Island. “We wanted to show off the dynamic aspect of the car,” Kim said.
Indeed, the car showed remarkable performance, powered by the smooth response of a VQ37VHR petrol engine, which flaunts up to 333 horsepower and a maximum torque of 37 kilogram meters.
One of the most impressive aspects was the suspension, with Infiniti encompassing both suaveness and durability. The car brushed off gusts of wind and the shock of the bumpy roads of Jejudo to maximize passenger comfort.
Infiniti engineers attributed the powerful stability to the double damper system, which allows for shock absorption and graceful strength at the same time.
An additional fun factor was the Bose premium sound system that basically bring live music to the ears. The speakers attached to the shoulders of the driver and front passenger seats deliver a crisp sound to fill the sporty atmosphere.
The stereo system also added to the serenity with its noise reduction function blocking out the sounds from outside.
The car has eco, sports, snow and standard modes, allowing drivers to experience dynamic, safe driving.
However, there are two concerns.
The first is the rather unattractive fuel economy ― the combined gas mileage is 8.3-8.8 kilometers per liter for gasoline engine and 11.7 kilometers per liter for diesel fuel. The second is the rather high price tag of 62.2 million won-65 million won ($54,600-$57,100).
Will the excitement guided by Infiniti’s state-of-the-art safety technology beat its energy-efficient and perhaps better-reputed German rivals? Only the market will tell.
By Bae Ji-sook (baejisook@heraldcorp.com)
