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Infiniti QX30 2.2d Premium auto AWD review

Date: 10 October 2016   |   Author:

Category: Lower medium
Key rival: Mini Countryman
P11D: £29,935
On sale: August 2016

The QX30 is part two of Infiniti's attempts to infiltrate the premium lower medium sector of the market.

Along with its regular Q30 hatchback sibling, the QX30 is a crossover-cum-hatch mix that sits 30-45mm higher than the Q30, depending on trim level, and is seeking to help Nissan's prestige brand gain a foothold.

The first impression is that it looks good, inside and out, with the extra height, plus satin chrome roof rails and wheel arch cladding that adds 5mm to the width, making for a more butch and stylish model than the regular hatchback.

Side

The interior, based on the Merc A-class under a wide-ranging tie-up between Infiniti parent Renault-Nissan and Mercedes, is a touch on the cosy side, but certainly plush and gives off the premium vibe, although the infotainment system can lack a little intuitiveness on occasion.

The QX30 line-up has been kept rather streamlined, with the 170hp 2.2 diesel engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and four-wheel drive being the lone alternative. There are two trim levels - Premium and Premium Tech - with the higher one costing an additional £3880 and adding kit including adaptive LED headlights with smart beam, keyless entry, rear-view camera and front parking sensors, leather seats, and interior upgrades including aluminium kick plates.

Rivals for the QX30 are limited because it's a slightly jacked-up hatch rather than a full-on crossover, so the Volvo V40 Cross Country and Mini Countryman are the most obvious choices. Both are a touch cheaper in lower Premium spec, which still offers decent spec including satnav, heated seats and 18-inch alloys.

Inside

A predicted residual of 37.1% is impressive for a fledgling brand, and outpoints the Mini and Volvo, pulling back some of the price gap, but higher SMR costs don't help, and the QX30 ends up 1.1p per mile behind the Countryman and 1.4p per mile adrift of the Volvo but the Volvo is only front-wheel drive.

The QX30, while a little on the pricey side compared with what you can get in size or badge terms elsewhere, is a characterful car, offering refined performance and a well-balanced drive that offers comfort without excessive body roll. It's not necessarily the logical go-to choice, but it's well worth a look for anyone that fancies something a bit different.

Infiniti QX30 2.2d Premium auto AWD

Model price range £24,435-£33,315
Residual value 37.1%
Depreciation £18,835
Fuel £5335
Service, maintenance and repair £2973
Vehicle Excise Duty £220
National Insurance £3346
Cost per mile 64.3p
Fuel consumption 57.6mpg
CO2 (BIK band) 128g/km (25%)
BIK 20/40% per month £125/£249
Warranty 3yrs/60,000mls
Boot space 430 litres
Engine size/power 2143cc/170hp

Verdict


Probably the most appealing car in the improving Infiniti line-up.
7/10
  • Good looks
  • Reasonable RVs and kit levels
  • Exclusivity
  • Small dealer network
  • Interior space isn't great

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