Infiniti is taking on the segment for premium compact cars with a new SUV called the QX30.
The vehicle is virtually identical to the Q30 sold overseas and shares most of its internals with the Mercedes-Benz GLA.
The QX30 will reach showrooms in September as a 2017 model and with a starting price of $30,945. That figure includes Infiniti’s standard $995 destination charge and means the QX30 undercuts its Mercedes twin by $2,480.
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The look of the QX30 is strikingly different to the competition and cuts a dramatic profile that’s more Mazda than Mercedes—a good thing, we think. The vehicle has a long nose, a coupe-like roofline, and a steeply tapered shape with a tightly drawn rear end.
2017 Infiniti QX30
Inside, the dash is more fluidly shaped than in the Mercedes, though there is a mishmash of shapes that some may find off-putting. A 7.0-inch touchscreen display is integrated in the dash and is joined in the cabin by lots of brushed metallic accents and leather trim.
The QX30’s powertrain is a familiar piece. It’s a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that delivers 208 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and drives the front wheels only as standard. Opting for all-wheel drive bumps the price tag up to $35,395, once again including destination.
The range-topper is a QX30 Sport. It features unique bumpers, body-colored side sills, 19-inch alloys, a lowered ride height, a panoramic moonroof, and navigation all as standard. It can only be ordered with front-wheel drive, though.
Anyone interested can reserve their QX30 at Infiniti’s website www.InfinitiUSA.com. Those who register early will be awarded with their choice from a selection of gifts including a GoPro camera and Bose headphones set.
2017 Infiniti QX30 - $30,945
2017 Infiniti QX30 Luxury - $33,595
2017 Infiniti QX30 Luxury AWD - $35,395
2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium -$36,295
2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium AWD - $38,695
2017 Infiniti QX30 Sport - $39,495
All prices include a $995 destination charge.
