Infiniti

Q30

The Infiniti Q30 is a premium compact hatchback that is packed with innovative technology and equipment. It features excellent build quality and is a valid alternative to some of the German marques.

Test Drive

Infiniti Q30 Premium Tech 2.2D 7DCT 4WD

In all the years I have been testing cars I don’t think any model has attracted the attention of the Infiniti Q30 and generally it was for all the right reasons too.

The latest model from the brand, which is the luxury arm of Nissan, is a striking five-door hatchback that looks truly amazing from any angle. But my particular car stood out even more as it was supplied in an especially prominent Liquid Copper colouring.

And it was the car’s eye-catching dynamic styling along with the colour that instantly drew attention. I was approached and quizzed by strangers in supermarket car parks and at a service station and the Q30 even attracted attention from neighbours who rarely show any interest in my cars these days (even the £100k-plus ones).

The questions that followed ran something like this: “Oh that’s an unusual colour – I love it” and “I don’t recognise that badge – which company makes that?”  And sadly that’s where the problems started. Whilst I could agree with the dazzling colourings of the car and indeed its exquisite good looks, the mention of Infiniti was greeted with somewhat blank expressions. Not one person had ever heard of the company and that’s a real shame.

Because Infiniti is a great brand and the Q30 is by far the best car to emerge from the company. It’s absolutely loaded with technology and top notch features that truly befit a premium model. Then when you factor in the excellent driving stats and competitive price-tag you can see why the Q30 is indeed the complete package.

The car looks fantastic from any approach thanks to its sleek, sporty, athletic stance complimented by 18-inch alloys, a large front grille, flashes of chrome trim, dual rectangular chrome exhaust pipes, LED front fog lights, LED rear lights and sweeping headlight clusters. The angled rear end resembles an arrowhead and that means the Q30 looks like its moving fast even when standing still.

Step inside and you are greeted with luxury at every turn thanks to heated leather front seats with electrical adjustment, a nappa leather dashboard, smart contrasting wood inserts and a host of technology to be explored including a BOSE premium sound system (£650 extra), Infiniti InTouch navigation (£1,400 option), a drive select mode to alter the car’s driving dynamics, a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity and a list that seems to go on and on.

Comfort levels are first-rate with ample space for four adults to travel in style, although with the front seats pushed back the leg room can be a little cramped in the rear. Elsewhere, storage options are respectable with a generously-sized boot capable of accommodating 430-litres of luggage which can be increased further with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats dropped flat. There are also convenient cup holders, decent-sized door pockets and a glovebox.

But it’s the car’s handling and all-round driving dynamics that really impressed me. The 2.2-litre diesel driven engine delivered all the power you could possibly wish for and the handling was smooth and responsive as it moved swiftly and effortlessly through the seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox.

In busy town centres the visibility was unobscured and the rearview camera and parking sensors made light work of manoeuvring into tight spaces.

Then out on the faster motorways and country lanes, the Q30 was a real pleasure to drive. The road holding was extremely sure-footed and the steering beautifully precise. Switch it across into Dynamic mode and the whole performance becomes a little edgier which is great fun. There is a little engine noise from the diesel powertrain when the car is pushed particularly hard, but apart from that the cabin is well insulated against sound.

According to official figures, the Q30 can sprint to 62mph from a standing start in 8.5 seconds and maxes out at 134mph. It can deliver combined fuel economy of 57.5mpg with carbon emissions of 127g/km. And the asking price is a very competitive £31,180 which is increased to £33,900 with options fitted.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Q30 on test featured 4WD which is another bonus factor with our unpredictable climate and ever-changing weather patterns. There is a comprehensive range of other safety features too, such as lane departure warning, cruise control, adaptive brake assist, seven airbags and lots more.

All in all, the Q30 is a fabulous piece of kit and excellent value for money. Now it’s just case of spreading the word.