By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist
Twitter: @carwriteups
www.carwriteups.co.uk

Think Porsche Cayenne; think BMW X6… think Infinity QX70? Well, when it comes to muscle-bound, opulent sport utility vehicles (SUV’s), the first two motors might come to mind but I doubt the Infinity will.

All that will change before long though. Infinity, the posh arm of Nissan, is steadily raising its profile in the UK – and its QX70 model should not be ignored if the luxury-SUV class floats your boat.

Appearance-wise, the QX70 looks the part, with an aggressive stance, low roofline and sporty sculpting. Inside, rich leather seats and discreet wood trim evoke a feeling of quality and class.

Despite its two ton upwards weight, the QX70 copes with corners and tears into the tarmac as if it were significantly lighter. A sharp-shooting seven-speed automatic gearbox helps by changing up and down through the cogs smoothly – but you can take over yourself using paddles mounted behind the wheel.

A stiff suspension set-up is largely to thank for the car’s cornering ability. Certainly, the QX70 drives on the twisty bits with a self-confidence that’s almost alien to this sort of vehicle.

All the usual standard safety features – and more – are stuffed into the Infinity. As with most sumptuous SUVs, a range of high-priced, high-tech safety options will most likely help you evade a crash in the first place. A surround-view camera set-up is one of the Japanese automaker’s most valuable fresh tech pieces, with its 360-degree view of the world around the QX70. Also, lane Departure Prevention follows lane markings on the road, notifies you, and can even put on the anchors.

On the downside, boot space isn’t as big as you’d expect because of the car’s curved design and high load floor. There’s some road noise intrusion too and the QX70 can feel a little agitated around town.

The most efficient model is the 3.0 diesel, on test here in mid range ‘S’ guise. Alas, there are many luxury SUVs with far better on-paper figures. The QX70 V6 oil-burner scrapes 32.8mpg and belches out 225g/km of Co2.

Additionally, due to a lack of brand recognition, a steep £44k+ price-tag and high depreciation, the QX70 doesn’t make a great new buy at the moment – but it will be a steal as a used buy.

Pros ‘n’ Cons 

• Powerful √
• Handling √
• Well-appointed √
• Efficiency X
• Expensive X 

Fast Facts

• Max speed: 132mph
• 0-62 mph: 8.3 secs
• Combined mpg: 32.8
• Engine: 2993cc V6 turbo diesel
• Max. power (bhp): 235
• Max. torque (lb.ft): 405
• CO2: 225g/km
• Price: £44,470