Another cushy compact crossover may or may not be what the world needs now, but it’s exactly what Infiniti needs. Enter the swoopy, stub-tailed QX30—which Infiniti is pitching as a “premium active crossover”—to give the brand an entrant in a segment poised for explosive growth. We tested an all-wheel-drive QX30 and found it does a reasonable job of being a cushy compact crossover, with its 8.0 inches of ground clearance, skid plates, and roof rails joining the creature comforts and chrome that come with being an Infiniti.
But those are crossovers. And as we’ve stated before, the QX30 Sport is not really a crossover, but rather a Euro hatch, one that Infiniti happily did not leave in Europe.
Pros Expressive design, composed chassis, upscale interior.
Cons Cramped in some dimensions, modest cargo area, transmission needs a Normal mode.
The 2017 Infiniti QX30 is a new addition to the automaker’s lineup and is its first entry to the growing luxury subcompact crossover segment.
Slotting below the aging QX50, the 2017 Infiniti QX30 is a small luxury crossover that’s available in front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (the car on which it’s based), the QX30 features a more curvaceous exterior design.
The Infiniti QX30 is shares its platform, engine and transmission with the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, GLA-Class, and the not-for-U.S.-consumption A-Class hatchback
Noise inside the cabin is kept to a minimum thanks to a good amount of sound insulation and interior trim materials are high in quality. The dash layout is unique because of its asymmetrical design, but the Infiniti InTouch multimedia interface could be more intuitive. Nissan and Infiniti’s “Zero Gravity” seats come standard and have plenty of support without sacrificing comfort. Although the QX30’s rear seats can accommodate adults but head- and legroom are limited. The low roof and small rear window, however, means rear visibility is compromised due to the car’s dramatic exterior styling.
Pros Sporty handling and smooth ride Torque-rich turbocharged engine Well-insulated cabin
Cons Cargo space is on the small side Limited rear passenger room Steering is a little heavy
You don't have to pay a fortune to get a luxury-branded vehicle these days. The new 2017 Infiniti QX30 is reasonably priced and yet offers you more style and performance than the typical small crossover SUV. Read more to learn if the QX30 has everything you're looking for.
Infiniti considers its all-new 2017 QX30 a combination of coupe, hatchback and crossover. The way it straddles these body types can be advantageous. From a driver enjoyment perspective, you will find the QX30 more athletic and better handling than a typical SUV. Compared to a traditional sedan, the QX30's hatchback design gives you greater versatility, both in terms of its taller ride height and increased cargo capacity. Then there's the QX30's coupe-like styling, which helps it look sportier than the typical sedan or crossover. The question you might wonder, though, is whether this extensive blending results in a vehicle that delivers the best of both worlds or is diluted to the point of not excelling at anything.
Pros Easy to maneuver around town High-quality interior looks sharp and comes pretty well equipped Multiple driver assistance features are available to help keep you safe.
Cons Sport models ride firm compared to other available versions Noticeable amount of wind and road noise at highway speeds Cargo capacity is smaller than rival crossovers Reflective interior trim pieces are distracting in bright-light situations.
The 2017 Infiniti QX70 ranks 17 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Infiniti QX70 is all about driving dynamics, offering powerful engine performance and sharp handling. However, you won't get the rear-seat or cargo space that many other SUVs offer. Though tech features are user-friendly, the interior design looks dated compared to rivals.
Pros Powerful engine Engaging handling User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Below-average cargo capacity Cramped rear seats Some outdated tech features and design touches
A new Limited package replaces last year's Deluxe Touring option and adds some cosmetic upgrades, but otherwise the QX70 returns unchanged. The 2017 Infiniti QX70 is a performance SUV that gives you more sport than utility. It also has unique styling and a luxurious interior. But after several years on the market, it's beginning to show its age against newer competitors.
Pros Sharp handling that makes it feel more like a sport sedan than a tall SUV Plenty of passing power from the standard V6 engine Well-trimmed interior has high-quality materials throughout.
Cons Less forgiving over rough surfaces than most luxury SUVs Rear passenger and cargo space are small for the class Technology interface is noticeably dated compared to newer competitors Only one engine option offered.
It's starting to look and feel dated, but the QX70 provides a healthy dose of thrills and, surprisingly, value. Formerly called the FX, the 2017 Infiniti QX70 makes some deliberate sacrifices for style and performance to be one of the most driver-focused crossovers available. It's certainly dated up against fresher rivals, but the QX70 focuses instead on delivering excellent driving dynamics in a way matched by few other vehicles of its ilk.
Pros Terrific chassis Flexible engine and transmission Styled like nothing else
Cons Cramped interior Poor fuel economy Expensive safety options
