Overview

Released in January 2014, the Infiniti S51 QX70 was a large, five-seat SUV. Manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, the all-wheel drive QX70 was available with 3.7-litre petrol V6, 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6; and 5.0-litre petrol V8 engines. The QX70 was initially released in Australia as the S51 FX , but was renamed for 2014.

Of these engines,

• the 3.7-litre VQ37VHR V6 petrol engine had an aluminium block and heads, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 11.0:1 and Nissan’s VVEL (‘Variable Valve Event and Lift’) system which combined hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically-controlled variable valve lift on the intake side;
• the 3.0-litre V9X turbo-diesel V6 engine had a compacted graphite iron (CGI) block, aluminium cylinder heads, Bosch common-rail injection (operating at 1800 bar), intercooler, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, exhaust gas recirculation and a compression ratio of 16.01:1; and,
• the 5.0-litre petrol VK50VE V8 engine had an aluminum block and heads, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 10.9:1 and VVEL.

All engines were mated to seven-speed automatic transmissions which had adaptive gearshift behaviour and downshift rev matching.

The QX70 was 4859 mm long, 2029 mm wide, 1651 mm tall and had a 2885 mm wheelbase. Furthermore, the QX70 had double wishbone front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension.

ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system

The QX70 was fitted with Nissan’s ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system which provided constant drive to the rear wheels. Drive to the front wheels, however, was managed by a transfer case with a multi-row chain driving a multi-plate wet clutch pack. When slip was detected at one of the rear wheels (i.e. a rear wheel turn of five per cent or more than the front wheels), the clutch pack would operate to direct up to 50 per cent of the engine’s torque to the front wheels. In contrast to ‘all or nothing’ part-time all-wheel drive systems, the ATTESA E-TS system could apportion different torque ratios to the front axle according to the conditions.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the QX70 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The S Premium editions were also fitted with the following systems:

• Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA): laser sensors calculated the distance to the vehicle ahead and, if approaching too fast, would warn the driver. If the driver did not apply the brakes in time, IBA would automatically brake the vehicle;
• Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): enabled the driver to specify the desired speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. If the vehicle ahead slowed, ICC would automatically brake the vehicle to maintain the distance and resume the desired cruising speed as the vehicle ahead accelerated;
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): a camera mounted near the rear view mirror would detect lane markers and whether the vehicle was drifting into another lane without indicating. A warning tone would initially sound, followed by autonomous braking of the wheels on the opposing side of the vehicle if the vehicle continued to drift; and,
• Low Speed Following (LSF): operating between 5 km/h and 40 km/h, LSF would autonomously accelerate and brake the vehicle when driving in traffic.

The QX70 had 355 mm ventilated front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and 350 mm rear ventilated discs with two-piston calipers.

Euro NCAP testing

IIn Euro NCAP testing, a 2009 FX37 GT received a five star safety rating which included an 86 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 77 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, structures in the dashboard presented a risk of injury to both front occupants. As such, protection for the driver’s chest, legs and feet was rated as adequate, while protection for the driver’s knees and chest was rated as adequate. In the side impact test, maximum points were awarded; in the more severe side impact test, chest protection for the driver was rated as adequate. Under ANCAP’s methodology, this testing resulted in a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 33.48 out of 37.

Features

Standard features for the QX70 GT included 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with 265/20 V-rated tyres, an eleven speaker Bose sound system with a 10 GB hard-drive and USB port, satellite navigation with an eight-inch colour display, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, a ten-way power adjustable driver’s seat, an eight-way power adjustable front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, leather seat trim, bi-xenon headlights with adaptive lighting, front fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, push-button start, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, power folding mirrors with automatic tilt when reversing, power adjustable steering wheel (for tilt and reach), driver memory settings (steering wheel, mirrors and seat position), a sunroof, tinted windows and rear privacy glass, power-operated rear tailgate, 12 volt power outlets, an electrochromatic rear view mirror and immobiliser.

The QX70 S was further equipped with 21-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with 265/45 R21 W-rated tyres, fourteen-way power adjustable driver’s seat and contoured front sports seats. Furthermore, the S and S Premium editions were also fitted with:

• Active Damping Control (ADC) which provided continuously variable damping with selectable automatic and sports modes; and,
• With the exception of the 3.7 variant, Rear Active Steering (RAS) which adjusted the direction of the rear wheels in relation to steering input and vehicle speed.

The range-topping QX70 S Premium was distinguished by its Around View Monitor (AVM) which displayed a virtual bird’s eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings to assist parking.

Brochure

• Brochure: Infiniti S51 QX70 (August 2014)

Related links

• Infiniti Cars Australia: Infiniti QX70
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti S51 QX70

Review: Infiniti Z62.I QX80 (2015-17)

Overview

Released in Australia in July 2015, the Infiniti Z62 Series I (Z62.I) QX80 was an eight-seat, all-wheel drive wagon. Manufactured in Yukuhashi, Japan, the Infiniti QX80 was powered by a 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine that was mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.

VK56VD engine

Shared with the related Nissan Y62 Patrol , the Infiniti QX80 was powered Nissan’s 5552 cc VK56VD V8 engine which had an aluminium block and cylinder head, direct petrol injection, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and Nissan’s ‘Variable Valve Event & Lift’ (or VVEL) which combined hydraulically-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable inlet valve lift. Furthermore, the engine had a compression ratio of 10.8:1 and produced more than 500 Nm from 2500 rpm.

4WD system

The Infiniti QX80 had Nissan’s ‘All-Mode 4WD system’ which consisted of an electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch and a helical limited slip rear differential with locking function. In the normal 4H drive mode, torque was directed to the rear axle to minimise fuel consumption. If traction was lost, however, up to 50 per cent of the engine’s torque could be directed to the front axle.

As part of the All-Mode system, a circular electronic switch cluster located behind the gear selector enabled the driver to:

• Select from sand, rock, snow or on-road drive modes;
• Activate the rear differential lock;
• Turn the electronic stability control on or off; and,
• Engage hill descent control.

Body and dimensions

Compared to the Nissan Y62 Patrol , the Infiniti QX80 was 165 mm longer (at 5305 mm), 52 mm wider (2047 mm) and 5 mm taller (1945 mm), though wheelbase length (3075 mm) was unchanged. Furthermore, the Infiniti QX80 had a kerb weight of 2785 kg.

The Infiniti QX80 had ground clearance of 245 mm, an approach angle of 24.3 degrees, departure angle of 24.5 degrees and ramp angle of 23.6 degrees. Maximum braked towing capacity for the Infiniti QX80 was 3500 kg; unbraked towing capacity was 750 kg.

Suspension

The Infiniti QX80 had independent front and rear suspension with double wishbones and twin-tube shock absorbers. The suspension included Nissan’s ‘Hydraulic Body Motion Control’ (HBMC) system which consisted of hydraulic chambers integrated into each shock absorber – these chambers automatically control suspension travel and were cross-linked to allow for the transfer of hydraulic fluid by nitrogen-charged accumulators from one side of the vehicle to the other. When cornering, the operation of the accumulators increased roll stiffness to reduce the amount of body lean.

Steering

The Infiniti QX80 had hydraulic, speed-sensitive rack and pinion steering.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Infiniti QX80 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

As standard, the Infiniti QX80 was equipped with the following active safety technologies:

• Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Distance Control Assist (DCA): using a combination of laser sensors, throttle and brake actuators, Intelligent Cruise Control could measure the distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically adjust the vehicle’s speed to maintain a pre-set following distance (selected from three distances via the Distance Control Assist button);
• Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Emergency Braking: if the distance to the vehicle ahead was closing too rapidly, the driver would be prompted to release the throttle and the brakes would be applied automatically to slow the vehicle;
• Forward Collision Warning: operating at speeds above 15 km/h, an alarm would sound to warn the driver when a potential collision was anticipated. Unlike Distance Control Assist, however, Forward Collision Warning did not autonomously brake the vehicle;
• Blind Spot Warning (BSW): illuminated an indicator light if another vehicle was detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then activated the turn signal, the indicator light would flash and an audible warning tone would sound;
• Backup Collision Intervention (BCI): could detect oncoming traffic that may cross the vehicle path and stationary objects behind the vehicle when it was reversing. If detected, the brakes would be engaged momentarily to alert the driver;
• Blind Spot Intervention (BSI): provided selective braking of the wheels on one side of the vehicle to counteract the driver’s attempt to steer into an adjacent lane if another vehicle has been detected in the blind spot area; and,
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): used a small camera behind the windscreen to detect lane markers and warn the driver of potential unintended lane departures with visual and audible warnings. If the driver did not return the vehicle toward the centre of the lane and the vehicle is travelling in excess of 70 km/h, the brakes on the opposing side of the drift would be automatically applied to counteract the drift.

Brakes

The Infiniti QX80 had 358 mm by 34 mm ventilated front brake discs with four-piston opposed callipers and 350 mm by 20 mm ventilated rear discs with single piston callipers.

Features: Infiniti QX80

Standard features for the Infiniti QX80 included 8.0J x 22-inch fourteen-spoke forged aluminium alloy wheels with 275/50 R22 all-season tyres, a Bose 5.1 channel surround sound system with fifteen speakers (including two subwoofers), CD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and audio streaming, hard-drive navigation with an eight-inch colour touchscreen and live traffic updates, hard drive for audio storage, three-zone climate control air conditioning, heated and ventilated front seats, heated outboard second row seats, semi-aniline leather-faced seat upholstery, bi-xenon headlights with washers, front fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, dual seven-inch colour monitors integrated in the front headrests and wireless headphones, powered 60/40 split and flat folding second row seats, reclining third row seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking with proximity key (i.e. keyless entry), power adjustable door mirrors with heating and reverse tilt-down functions, auto-dimming door and interior rear view mirrors, power windows, a power adjustable steering column (tilt and telescopic), courtesy lights, push-button start, illuminated vanity mirrors, a 12 volt power outlet, power sliding sunroof, power-operated tailgate, rear privacy glass, floor mats, stainless steel sill plates, roof rails, tyre pressure monitoring, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

The Infiniti QX80 was also fitted with an ‘Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection’ which could display different views of the vehicle – from above (bird’s-eye view), the front, rear and sides – to assist with parking.

Paint colours

The Infiniti QX80 was available in Black Obsidian, Moonlight White, Liquid Platinum and Graphite Shadow paint finishes.

Specifications

• Specifications: Infiniti Z62 QX80 (July 2015)

Related links

• Infiniti Cars Australia: Infiniti QX80
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti QX

Review: Infiniti Z62.II QX80 (2018-19)

Overview

Officially released in Australia in March 2018, the Infiniti Z62 Series II (Z62.II) QX80 introduced updated styling, an upgraded interior, revised suspension and improved soundproofing.

Styling changes

Visually, the Infiniti Z62.II QX80 could be identified by its 20 mm higher leading edge for the bonnet which extended 90 mm further forward, more upright ‘double-arch’ grille, an aluminium strip (beneath the grille to emphasise width) and raised lower section of the front bumper. The Z62.II QX80 also had ‘human eye’ headlamps which used a series of reflective channels to disperse light (Infiniti’s ‘triple light guide technology’). In profile, the Z62.II QX80 had new six-spoke alloy wheels that were finished in dark silver paint and, at the rear, a raised lower bumper section, thinner tail-lamps and straight character lines for the bodywork and light units.

The Infiniti Z62.II QX80 had an improved drag co-efficient of 0.36 Cd. In part, this was achieved through a re-shaped under-body cover which improved air flow, reduced air pressure and directed air away from the rear tyres.

Suspension

According to Infiniti, re-tuned shock absorber pistons for the Z62.II QX80 reduced damping forces at each wheel by 30 per cent to better isolate the cabin from high-frequency vibrations. The vertical angle of the radial steel belt in the tyre walls was also changed to reduce vertical deflection by 5 per cent for better absorption of small vibrations and road impacts when driving over rough or broken surfaces.

Safety equipment

As standard, the Infiniti Z62.II QX80 was fitted with a new ‘Smart Rear View Mirror’ which could display video – in the rear view mirror – from a wide-angle camera mounted in the upper rear windscreen.

Interior

Inside, the Infiniti Z62.II QX80 introduced a re-designed steering wheel, a new leather-wrapped gearshift lever and higher-density padding for leather-trimmed surfaces (such as the doors and armrest).The interior of the Infiniti Z62.II QX80 had larger storage spaces. For example,

• The centre console had a larger smartphone storage area (73 mm wide);
• There was a larger 5.4 litre space beneath the front passenger armrest which could hold tablet devices when stood vertically;
• The front cupholders were re-shaped so that they could hold two 1.3 litre cups with handles; and,
• All doors featured storage areas for bottles and other items.

The Infiniti Z62.II QX80 had a wider soundproofing area behind the dashboard panel to reduce engine noise, denser floor carpets and additional soundproofing materials around the cargo area. According to Infiniti, these measures produced a five per cent improvement in the cabin’s articulation index score.

Features

The Infiniti Z62.II QX80 had an upgraded rear entertainment system which featured eight-inch screens with 960 x 540 pixel resolution (previously seven-inch screens with 800 x 480 pixels) that could display separate content, a new HDMI auxiliary port and support for thirty-19e languages (previously three). Whereas the Z62.I QX80 provided wireless headphone support, the Z62.II QX80 added 3.5 mm auxiliary jacks for two rear passengers. The Z62.II QX80 also introduced an updated ‘InTouch’ infotainment system which had revised dashboard buttons and customisation of apps and icons on the touchscreen.

The Infiniti Z62.II QX80 was also available with ‘Remote Engine Start’ and ‘Remote Horn and Lights’ functions which enabled the driver to control these functions remotely using a smartphone.

Related links

• Infiniti Cars Australia: Infiniti QX80
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti QX

Overview

Commencing production in August 2016 and officially released in Australia in November 2016, the Infiniti V37 Q60 was a two-door coupe. Manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, the rear-wheel drive Infiniti Q60 Coupe was initially offered with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and in GT editions.

In March 2017, the Infiniti Q60 Coupe range expanded with Sport Premium and Red Sport editions, the latter powered by 3.0-litre biturbo V6 petrol engines. In August 2018, however, the Q60 Coupe range was reduced and the ‘GT’ edition was renamed ‘Pure’.

Infiniti Q60: M274 and VR30DDTT engines

For the Infiniti Q60 2.0t, the 2.0-litre Mercedes-Benz M274 petrol engine had an aluminium alloy block and cylinder head, a hollow crankshaft, a single-scroll IHI (ICSI) turbocharger, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), variable camshaft timing (hydraulically controlled), four valves per cylinder, direct fuel injection via piezo-electric injectors and a compression ratio 9.8:1. Furthermore, the M274 engine had a 6300 rpm redline. To reduce fuel consumption, the M274 engine had a start-stop function which enabled it to shut down when the Infiniti Q60 was stationary in traffic; over the combined ADR 81/02 test cycle, fuel consumption for the Infiniti Q60 2.0t is 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres.

For the Infiniti Q60 3.0t, the 3.0-litre VR30DDTT biturbo V6 petrol engine had an aluminium alloy block with an arc sprayed mirror coating for the bores, an aluminium alloy cylinder head with integrated exhaust manifold, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve timing (electronically and hydraulically controlled, respectively), direct fuel injection, water-to-air intercoolers and electronic wastegate actuators. For the 298 kW VR30DDT engine, the turbochargers had turbine speed sensors and peak boost pressure was limited to 14.7 psi.

Both engines were mated to seven-speed automatic transmissions which featured Infiniti’s ‘Adaptive Shift Control’ (ASC). In addition to adaptive to driver behaviour, ASC included a lateral acceleration sensor to detect topographical changes in the road – such as hills or corners – and enhanced gear-select patterns according to the conditions.

Body and dimensions

Like the Infiniti V37 Q50 , the Q60 Coupe was underpinned by Nissan’s FM platform. Compared to the Q50 sedan, the Q60 Coupe was 98 mm shorter (at 4685 mm), 26 mm wider (1850 mm) and 48 mm lower (1395 mm), though wheelbase length was unchanged at 2850 mm. Furthermore, the Q60 Coupe had luggage capacity of 342 litres.

The Infiniti V37 Q60 2.0t had a drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd, though models with V6 engines had an Active Grille Shutter that was normally closed to reduce aerodynamic drag but opened when additional cooling is required. As a result, it is understood that the Infiniti Q60 3.0t had a drag coefficient of 0.28 Cd.

Unusually, the bootlid for the Infiniti Q60 was a hybrid combination of a resin skin on a steel frame. According to Infiniti, this provided greater freedom to develop shapes from a single part.

Suspension

The Infiniti Q60 had single pivot, double-wishbone front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension with coil springs. The Infiniti Q60 3.0t Red Sport, however, had ‘Dynamic Digital Suspension’ which consisted of electronically-controlled shock absorbers and enabled the driver to select from various drive modes. Furthermore, the Infiniti Q60 3.0t had a 10 mm lower ride height than the Infiniti Q60 2.0t.

Steering: Rack EPS and Direct Adaptive Steering

As standard, the Infiniti Q60 had rack-and-pinion steering with electric power assistance (Infiniti’s ‘Rack EPS’). Beyond this, the Infiniti Q60 3.0t Red Sport had Infiniti’s ‘Direct Adaptive Steering’ (DAS), an electronic steer-by-wire system. With DAS, the driver’s steering wheel inputs were electronically transferred to the front wheels by a high-response actuator which drove the steering rack. By eliminating mechanical losses that could slow the responses (as occurred in conventional systems), steering response was faster and steering wheel vibrations were eliminated. Furthermore, the driver had the ability to adjust both steering weight and directness (i.e. the steering gear ratio) via a touch screen as part of the ‘Infiniti Drive Mode Selector’. DAS also included a triple-mode back-up (three separate electronic control units) and a mechanical steering linkage as a failsafe.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Infiniti Q60 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

As standard, the Infiniti Q60 Coupe was equipped with Infiniti’s Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) and Forward Emergency Braking systems which used a radar sensor located behind the front bumper to alert the driver if there was a potential risk of a forward collision. When this occurred, a warning tone would sound and the ‘Vehicle Ahead Detection’ indicator light would illuminate. If active, the Forward Emergency Braking system applied upward pressure on the accelerator pedal to alert the driver and provide partial braking. If the driver did not respond, additional audible and visual warnings were issued and greater braking force would be applied.

As standard, the Infiniti Q60 Coupe also had a pop-up bonnet which, in the event of a pedestrian collision, uses a pyrotechnic charge to raise the trailing edge of the bonnet for a larger buffer between the bonnet and the top of the engine.

Compared to the Q60 GT, the Q60 2.0t Sport Premium and 3.0t Red Sport were equipped with the following items –

• A pre-crash function for front seatbelts which used a motor to tighten the seatbelts to restrain the occupants in the event of emergency braking, sudden steering manoeuvres, activation of the Intelligent Brake Assist system or when a rollover was anticipated;
• Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): enabled the driver to specify the desired speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. If the vehicle ahead slowed, ICC would automatically brake the vehicle to maintain the distance and resume the desired cruising speed when the vehicle ahead accelerated;
• Back-up Collision Intervention (BCI): could detect stationary objects and crossing traffic behind the vehicle and warn the driver via an audible tone and flashing light. If the driver failed to respond, the system would apply upward pressure on the accelerator pedal and momentarily apply the brakes to alert the driver;
• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Blind Spot Intervention (BSI): provided visual and audible warnings if another vehicle was detected in the blind-spot area (BSW). If the driver ignored the warning and attempted to steer into the other vehicle’s path, the brakes would be automatically applied on the opposing side of the vehicle to return the vehicle to its lane (BSI); and,
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): a camera mounted near the rear view mirror would detect lane markers and whether the vehicle was drifting into another lane without indicating. A warning tone would initially sound, followed by autonomous braking of the wheels on the opposing side of the vehicle if the vehicle continued to drift.

Brakes

The Infiniti Q60 2.0t had 320 mm by 28 mm ventilated front disc brakes with twin-piston callipers and 308 mm by 16 mm ventilated rear discs with single-piston callipers. The Infiniti Q60 3.0t Red Sport, however, had an Akebono performance braking package which consisted of 355 mm by 32 mm ventilated front brake discs with four-piston callipers and 350 mm by 20 mm ventilated rear discs with two-piston callipers.

Features: Infiniti Q60 2.0t GT

As standard, the Infiniti Q60 GT was equipped with Infiniti’s ‘InTouch’ infotainment system which included dual display screens (an eight-inch upper and seven-inch lower display) and satellite navigation with SUNA live traffic updates. Furthermore, Infiniti’s ‘Drive Mode Selector’ (DMS), enabled the driver to select from four drive modes – Standard, Snow, Sport and Personal – via the eight-inch touchscreen. Of these,

• ‘Standard’ provided normal engine output and transmission settings, greater steering assistance and, at higher speeds and over rough road surfaces, a slower steering gear ratio;
• ‘Sport’ reduced steering assistance, provided a faster steering ratio, greater accelerator pedal response and more aggressive transmission mapping;
• ‘Personal’ enabled the driver to customise steering settings (from Standard and Sport) and accelerator pedal response (Default and Dynamic); and,
• ‘Snow’ reduced engine outputs and engages higher gears to reduce wheel spin on slippery roads.

Other standard features for the Infiniti Q60 2.0t GT included 9.0J x 19-inch alloy wheels with 255/40 R19 runflat tyres, a six speaker sound system with CD player (MP3-compatible), USB connection ports, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and audio streaming, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter, high-bolster seats with semi-aniline leather faces, eight-way power adjustable and heated front seats, LED headlights with adaptive lighting and high beam assist, LED front fog lights, daytime running lights, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a rear view monitor, flat folding rear seat backs, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking with proximity key, power adjustable and folding door mirrors with heating and automatic tilting on reverse, power windows, a power adjustable steering wheel (tilt and telescopic adjustment) with memory settings, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, ambient lighting, tyre pressure monitoring, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

Features: Infiniti Q60 2.0t GT with Enhancement Pack

For the Infiniti Q60 2.0t GT, the optional Enhancement Pack added a ‘Bose Performance Series’ audio system which had thirteen speakers, including multiple 10-inch speakers, 6- by 9-inch woofers and a lightweight silk dome tweeter. The Bose audio system also included an ‘Active Noise Control’ function which microphones to detect low frequency noises and emit reverse phase audio signals through the door-mounted speakers to counteract them.

Features: Infiniti Q60 2.0t Sport Premium and 3.0t Red Sport

Compared to the Q60 2.0t GT, the Q60 2.0t Sport Premium and 3.0t Red Sport were distinguished by their 19-inch dark chrome alloy wheels with R19 94W run-flat tyres, the Bose Performance Series audio system (described above), steering wheel gearshift paddles, power sliding glass sunroof with sliding sunshade and carbon fibre interior trim.

Furthermore, the Infiniti Q60 2.0t Sport Premium and 3.0t Red Sport both had:

• Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD): AVM was a parking aid which provided a virtual video image of the vehicle with surrounding objects, including moving objects; and,
• Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) with High Beam Assist: included self-leveling headlights and, when travelling at speeds of 35 km/h and above, automatically turned off the high beams in the presence of oncoming traffic.

From August 2018, the Infiniti Q60 3.0t Red Sport was equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels.

Brochure

• Brochure: Infiniti V37 Q60 Coupe (November 2016)
• Brochure: Infiniti V37 Q60 Coupe (April 2017)
• Brochure: Infiniti V37 Q60 Coupe (August 2018)

Review: Infiniti Y51 Q70 (2014-15)

Overview

Released in January 2014, the Infiniti Y51 Series I (Y51.I) Q70 was an executive sedan. Manufactured in Tochigi Japan, the rear-wheel drive Q70 was available with three drivetrains: a 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine, a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine or a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and an electric motor. The Q70 was initially released in Australia as the M sedan , but was renamed for 2014.

Powertrains

For the conventional powertrains,

• the 3.7-litre VQ37VHR V6 petrol engine had an aluminium block and heads, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 11.0:1 and Nissan’s VVEL (‘Variable Valve Event and Lift’) system which combined hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically-controlled variable valve lift on the intake side; and,
• the 3.0-litre V9X turbo-diesel V6 engine had a compacted graphite iron (CGI) block, aluminium cylinder heads, Bosch common-rail injection (operating at 1800 bar), intercooler, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, exhaust gas recirculation and a compression ratio of 16.01:1.

The Q70 Hybrid combined Nissan’s VQ35HR engine – operating on an Atkinson cycle – with a 50 kW electric motor which was installed in parallel between the engine and transmission. Electrical energy was stored in a 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack which was installed upright behind the rear seats; the battery pack was expected to have a service life of ten years. The Q70 Hybrid was fitted with an ‘Electric Driven Intelligent Brake’ system which used the electric drive motor to operate the brake cylinders; braking force was also maintained while the hydraulic pressure of the friction brake was also controlled to maximise energy regeneration.

Other innovations for the Q70 Hybrid included an electro-hydraulic steering system with ‘on-demand’ assistance, which sought to provide the feel of a hydraulic system with the fuel efficiency of an electric system, and twin clutches which enabled the V6 engine to be decoupled when the car was in electric drive and power regeneration mode. The Q70 Hybrid could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

All Q70 models had a seven-speed automatic transmission with adaptive gearshift behaviour and downshift rev matching.

Dimensions and body

Based on Nissan’s FM-L platform, the Infiniti Q70 sedan was 4945 mm long, 1845 mm wide, 1509 mm tall and had a 2900 mm wheelbase. Furthermore, the Q70 had double-wishbone front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Infiniti Q70 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Both the Q70 S Premium and GT Premium editions were also fitted with:

• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Blind Spot Intervention (BSI): provided visual and audible warnings if another vehicle was detected in the blind-spot area (BSW). If the driver ignored the warning and attempted to steer into the other vehicle’s path, the brakes would be automatically applied on the opposing side of the vehicle to returns the vehicle to its original lane (BSI);
• Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): enabled the driver to specify the desired speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. If the vehicle ahead slowed, ICC would automatically brake the vehicle to maintain the distance and resume the desired cruising speed as the vehicle ahead accelerated;
• Distance Control Assist (DCA): detected if the vehicle ahead was braking and provided feedback through the accelerator pedal to instruct the driver to remove their foot from the pedal;
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA): laser sensors calculated the distance to the vehicle ahead and, if approaching too fast, would warn the driver. If the driver did not apply the brakes in time, IBA would automatically brake the vehicle;
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): a camera mounted near the rear view mirror would detect lane markers and whether the vehicle was drifting into another lane without indicating. A warning tone would initially sound, followed by autonomous braking of the wheels on the opposing side of the vehicle if the vehicle continued to drift.

Q70 S Premium editions were also fitted with a Low Speed Following (LSF) system which operated between 5 km/h and 40 km/h by autonomously accelerating and braking the vehicle in traffic. Unique within the range, the M35h was fitted with Infiniti’s Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system which used an in-car sound synthesizer with a speaker built into the front bumper. VSP would emit a range of high-low sounds at different volume levels according to vehicle speed to warn pedestrians of its approach.

Brakes

The Infiniti Q70 GT editions were fitted with 320 mm diameter front and 308 mm rear ventilated disc brakes. The Q70 S Premium, however, was fitted with 355 mm ventilated front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and 350 mm rear ventilated discs with two-piston calipers.

Features: Q70 GT and GT Premium

Standard features for the Infiniti Q70 GT editions included 18-inch alloy wheels with 245/50 R18 W-rated tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD/DVD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, 10GB hard-drive, auxiliary input (3.5 mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth audio streaming, satellite navigation with an eight-inch touch screen, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, ten-way power adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, semi-aniline leather seat upholstery, bi-xenon headlights with washers and adaptive lighting, front and rear fog lights, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, push-button start, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, power folding mirrors with automatic tilt when reversing, a power adjustable steering wheel (tilt and reach), driver memory settings (steering wheel, mirrors, seat position and climate control), sunroof, an electrochromatic rear view mirror, two 12 volt power outlets, tyre pressure monitoring, an alarm and immobiliser. All M sedans were fitted with a space-saving spare alloy wheel.

Compared to Q70 GT, the Q70 GT Premium added a sixteen speaker Bose Surround Sound system and a powered rear sunshade.

Features: Q70 S Premium

The Infiniti Q70 S Premium was further equipped with 20-inch light alloy wheels with 245/40 W-rated tyres, sport-tuned suspension, contoured front sports seats and a sports steering wheel and gearshift knob. The S Premium was also fitted with:

• Four-wheel active steering (4WAS) which would actively turn all four wheels while cornering and adjust the steering angle and ratio according to the vehicle’s speed; and,
• Dynamic Cornering Enhancement (DCE) which would adjust the torque distribution between the rear wheels and apply the brakes to individual wheels to reduce understeer.

The Q70 S Premium editions could be identified by their unique front bumpers, dark chrome grilles and blackened headlight surrounds and reflectors. Inside, there were aluminium pedals, black lacquer trim and a graphite roof liner.

Brochure

• Brochure: Infiniti Y51 Q70 (August 2014)

Review: Infiniti Y51.II Q70 (2015-19)

Overview

Commencing production in November 2015, the Infiniti Y51 Series II (Y51.II) Q70 introduced a revised range as the 3.0d variants were discontinued. Visually, the Y51.II Q70 could be identified by its new LED headlights, double arch grille with waved mesh finish and chrome surround, front bumper with integrated fog lights, LED combination lights, flattened boot lid and chrome rear finisher. The Q70 S Premium was further distinguished by its unique front bumper for a wider stance and a high-gloss black finish for the lower part of the rear bumper.

According to Infiniti, the revised styling of the Y51.II Q70 improved aerodynamic efficiency, with drag coefficients of 0.26 Cd, 0.27 Cd and 0.28 Cd for the hybrid, GT and S Premium editions, respectively.

Safety equipment

Compared to their Y51.I predecessors, the Q70 GT Premium and S Premium were further equipped with ‘Backup Collision Intervention’ (BCI) which could autonomously apply the brakes if an object was detected behind the vehicle and there was a risk that the driver may reverse into it.

Features

Compared to the Infiniti Y51.I GT, the Y51.II GT edition was further equipped with a Bose sound system with ten speakers, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED fog lights. While adaptive lighting was standard for the Y51.I Q70, however, it was reserved for the GT Premium and S Premium editions in the Y51.II Q70 range.

The Q70 GT Premium and S Premium both gained an ‘Around View Monitor’ (AVM) which used cameras located on all sides of the vehicle to generate a bird’s eye view of the vehicle which could be projected on the in-dash screen. The system also included corner parking sensors, moving object detection and parking guidance.

Specifications

• Specifications: Infiniti Y51 Q70 (February 2016)

Related links

• Infiniti Cars Australia: Infiniti Q70
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti Y51 Q70

Overview

Released in January 2014, the Infiniti V36 Q60 Convertible was a four-seat convertible with a retractable hardtop roof. Manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, the rear-wheel drive Q60 Convertible was powered by a 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine which was mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Q60 Convertible was initially launched in Australia as the G37 Convertible , but was renamed for 2014.

The 3.7-litre VQ37VHR V6 petrol engine had an aluminium block and heads, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 11.0:1 and Nissan’s VVEL (‘Variable Valve Event and Lift’) system which combined hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically-controlled variable valve lift on the intake side. Furthermore, the seven-speed automatic transmission featured a Drive Sport (DS) Mode and Downshift Rev Matching.

The V36 Q60 Convertible was underpinned by Nissan’s FM platform which was shared with the Infiniti V36 Q60 Coupe. For the Q60 Convertible, however, the design was modified beyond the A-pillars and included extensive structural reinforcements, a wider rear track and modified rear suspension. Compared to the Q60 Coupe, the Q60 Convertible was 5 mm longer (at 4660 mm), 30 mm wider (1850 mm) and 13 mm taller (1400 mm), though wheelbase length (2850 mm) is unchanged. The three-piece, retractable hard top roof can be opened or closed in 25 seconds.

The Q60 Convertible had double wishbone front suspension and subframe-mounted multi-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Q60 Convertible included dual front airbags, front thorax/pelvis airbags, front head-protecting side airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The Q60 Convertible also had pop-up bar for rollover protection and a pop-up bonnet which, in the event of a pedestrian collision, used a pyrotechnic charge to raise the trailing edge of the bonnet for a larger buffer between the bonnet and the top of the engine.

Brakes

The Q60 Convertible had 355 mm ventilated front brake discs with four-piston aluminium calipers and 350 mm ventilated rear brake disc with two-piston aluminium calipers.

Features

Standard features for the Q60 S Premium included 19-inch five-triple-spoke alloy wheels with 225/45 R19 front and 245/40 R19 rear tyres, a thirteen speaker Bose sound system with a CD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, a 10GB hard-drive, Bluetooth audio streaming and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), a satellite navigation system with a seven-inch colour touch screen, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a ten-way power adjustable driver’s seat, an eight-way power adjustable front passenger seat, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, cruise control, front fog lights, bi-xenon headlights with washers and adaptive front lighting, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, a power adjustable steering wheel (tilt and telescopic), driver memory settings (seat, steering wheel and mirrors), two 12 volt power outlets, a wind deflector, tyre pressure monitoring and an immobiliser.

Brochure

• Brochure: Infiniti V36 Q60 Convertible (August 2014)

Related links

• Infiniti Cars Australia: Infiniti Q60 Convertible
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti V36 G

Overview

Released in January 2014, the Infiniti V36 G Coupe was a luxury coupe. Manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, the rear-wheel drive Q60 Coupe was powered by a 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Q60 Coupe was initially launched in Australia as the G37 Coupe , but was renamed for 2014.

The 3.7-litre VQ37VHR V6 petrol engine had an aluminium block and heads, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 11.0:1 and Nissan’s VVEL (‘Variable Valve Event and Lift’) system which combined hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically-controlled variable valve lift on the intake side. Furthermore, the seven-speed automatic transmission featured a Drive Sport (DS) Mode and Downshift Rev Matching.

The V36 Q60 Coupe was underpinned by Nissan’s FM platform which was shared with the Infiniti V36 Q60 Convertible, Nissan V36 Skyline and Z34 370Z . As such, the Q60 Coupe was 4655 mm long, 1820 mm wide, 1387 mm tall and had a 2850 mm long wheelbase.

The Q60 Coupe had double wishbone front suspension and subframe-mounted multi-link rear suspension; the S Premium variants were also fitted with four-wheel active steering (Infiniti’s ‘4WAS’).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Q60 Coupe included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The Q60 Coupe was also fitted with a pop-up bonnet which, in the event of a pedestrian collision, used a pyrotechnic charge to raise the trailing edge of the bonnet to create a larger buffer between the bonnet and the top of the engine.

Brakes

The Q60 GT Premium had 320 mm ventilated front brake discs and 308 mm ventilated rear brake discs. The S Premium, however, had 355 mm ventilated front brake discs with four-piston aluminium calipers and 350 mm ventilated rear discs with two-piston aluminium calipers.

Features

Standard features for the Q60 GT Premium included 18-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels with 225/50 R18 front and 245/45 R18 rear tyres, an eleven speaker Bose sound system with a CD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, a 10GB hard-drive, Bluetooth audio streaming and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), a satellite navigation system with a seven-inch colour touch screen, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a ten-way power adjustable driver’s seat, an eight-way power adjustable front passenger seat, leather seat trim, heated front seats, cruise control, front fog lights, bi-xenon headlights with washers and adaptive front lighting, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, flat folding rear seats, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, a power adjustable steering wheel (tilt and telescopic), driver memory settings (seat, steering wheel and mirrors), two 12 volt power outlets, a glass sunroof with a sliding shade and an immobiliser.

The Q60 S Premium variants was further equipped with 19-inch five triple-spoke alloy wheels with 225/45 R19 front and 245/40 R19 rear tyres, sports suspension, front sports seats with thigh extensions, a fourteen-way power adjustable driver’s seat and tyre pressure monitoring; the S Premium variants were also fitted with a viscous limited slip rear differential and a rear spoiler.

Brochure

• Brochure: Infiniti V36 Q60 Coupe (August 2014)

Related links

• Infiniti Cars Australia: Infiniti Q60 Coupe
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti V36 G

Review: Infiniti H15.I Q30 (2016-18)

Overview

Released in Australia in August 2016, the Infiniti H15 Q30 was a five-door hatchback with a raised ride height. Manufactured at Nissan’s plant in Sunderland, England, the front-wheel drive Infiniti Q30 range consisted of 1.6t, 2.0t and 2.2d variants that were offered in GT, Sport and Sport Premium editions (see table below).

While the 1.6t and 2.0t variants were powered by Mercedes-Benz’s 1.6- and 2.0-litre M270 turbocharged petrol engines , the 2.2d was powered by Mercedes-Benz’s 2.1-litre OM651 turbo-diesel engine . All engines, however, were mated to seven-speed dual clutch transmissions and had an ‘ECO stop/start’ system which enabled them to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic to reduce fuel consumption.

Dimensions

Based on the same platform as the Mercedes-Benz W176 A-Class , the Infiniti Q30 was 4425 mm long, 1805 mm wide (excluding door mirrors), 1475 mm tall and had a 2700 mm long wheelbase; boot capacity was 368 litres (VDA method).

Suspension and steering

The Infiniti Q30 had MacPherson strut front suspension and four-link rear suspension. While the Q30 GT editions had ‘comfort-tuned’ suspension, the Sport and Sport Premium editions had ‘sport-tuned’ suspension.

The Infiniti Q30 had rack-and-pinion steering with electric, speed-sensitive power assistance; its turning circle was 11.4 metres.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Infiniti Q30 included dual front airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

As standard, the Q30 was equipped with Infiniti’s ‘Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Forward Emergency Braking (FEB)’ which used a radar sensor located behind the front bumper to alert the driver when there was a potential risk of a forward collision. When this occurred, a warning tone would sound and the ‘Vehicle Ahead Detection’ indicator light would illuminate. If active, the Forward Emergency Braking system would apply upward pressure on the accelerator pedal to alert the driver and provide partial braking. If the driver did not respond, additional audible and visual warnings were given and increased braking force applied.

Beyond this, the Q30 Sport and Sport Premium editions were both equipped with::

• Lane Departure Warning: used a camera mounted near the rear view mirror to detect lane markers and if the vehicle was drifting into another lane without indicating. If this occurred, a warning tone would sound; and,
• Traffic Sign Recognition: could interpret road signs and relay this information to the driver via the navigation system.

Finally, the Q30 Sport Premium was further equipped with:

• Blind Spot Warning (BSW): illuminated an indicator light if another vehicle was detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then activated the turn signal, the indicator light would flash and an audible warning tone would sound; and,
• Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): enabled the driver to specify the desired speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. If the vehicle ahead slowed, ICC would automatically brake the vehicle to maintain the distance and resume the desired cruising speed when the vehicle ahead accelerated.

Brakes

The Infiniti Q30 GT had 295 mm by 28 mm ventilated front brake discs and 295 mm by 10 mm solid rear discs. The Infiniti Q30 Sport and Sport Premium, however, had 320 mm by 30 mm cross-drilled and ventilated front brake discs and 295 mm by 22 mm solid rear discs. For the front and rear brakes, the Infiniti Q30 had floating, single-piston Brembo callipers.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , a left-hand drive Infiniti Q30 that was powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine received a five star safety rating which included an 84 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 86 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the frontal offset test, protection for the front occupants was rated as good for all body areas except the driver’s lower left leg which was rated as adequate (i.e. a slight risk of serious injury). While maximum points were awarded in the side impact test, chest protection for the driver was rated as marginal in the more severe pole test.

Features: Infiniti Q30 GT

Standard features for the Infiniti Q30 GT included 18 x 7.0J five-twin-spoke alloy wheels with 235/50 R18 tyres, a six speaker sound system with MP3/WMA/AAC compatibility and dual USB inputs, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and audio streaming, Infiniti’s ‘InTouch’ infotainment system with seven-inch LCD, navigation and voice recognition, cloth upholstery, four-way powered lumbar adjustment for the driver’s seat, single-zone climate control conditioning, cruise control, halogen headlights with dusk-sensing function, LED daytime running and fog lights, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, a Nappa leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles, remote central locking, power adjustable and heated door mirrors with power folding function, power windows, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, three 12 volt power sockets, illuminated vanity mirrors, tyre pressure monitoring, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

Visually, the Infiniti Q30 GT could be identified by its satin chrome front bumper lip, black gloss fog light finishers, body-coloured door mirror housings, black glass side sill extensions and dual exhaust pipes in satin chrome. Unique within the range, the Infiniti Q30 GT was fitted with a tyre repair kit.

Features: Infiniti Q30 Sport

Compared to the Infiniti Q30 GT, the Q30 Sport was distinguished by its 19 x 8.0J five-twin-spoke alloy wheels with a gunmetal grey finish and 235/45 R19 runflat tyres, front sports seats with fixed head restraints and heating function, combination Alcantara and leatherete upholstery with white leatherette inserts, Alcantara interior finishes (for the dashboard, door armrests and centre armrest), LED headlights with integrated LED indicators, a D-shaped sports steering wheel, graphite-coloured ‘Dinamica’ headliner and aluminium-alloy pedals with rubber studs.

The Q30 Sport and Sport Premium were both equipped with Infiniti’s ‘Active Front-lighting System (AFS) with High Beam Assist’ which included a self-leveling function for the headlights and, when travelling at speeds of 35 km/h and above, automatically turned off the high beams when oncoming traffic was detected.

Visual cues for the Infiniti Q30 Sport and Sport Premium included their sport grilles, sport bumpers (front and rear), black gloss mirror housings, body-coloured side sill extensions and dark chrome dual exhaust pipes.

Features: Infiniti Q30 Sport Premium

The range-topping Infiniti Q30 Sport Premium was distinguished by its ten speaker Bose premium audio system with subwoofer, dual-zone climate control, eight-way power adjustable front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment, Nappa leather upholstery with white leatherette inserts, Nappa leather interior finishes (for the dashboard, door armrest and centre armrest), front and rear parking sensors, heated headlight washers, memory settings for the front seats and door mirrors, a fixed glass roof with power-operated sunshade, a fold-down rear armrest with cupholders, front aluminium kick plates and ambient lighting.

The Infiniti Q30 Sport Premium was equipped with an ‘Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD)’ which provided a virtual video image of the vehicle with surrounding objects, including moving objects. Furthermore, the Intelligent Park Assist function could detect parallel, perpendicular and 45 degree parking spaces and steering the vehicle into these spaces while the driver controlled vehicle speed.

As standard, the Infiniti Q30 Sport Premium featured ‘Active Sound Control’ (also called Active Sound Enhancement) which monitored the throttle pedal position, engine speed and vehicles speed to ‘smooth out any variations in engine tone [and] project a pleasing sound under acceleration.’

For the Q30 2.2d Sport Premium, an Active Noise Control (also called Active Noise Cancellation) system used microphones within the cabin to monitor engine noise and would emit reverse phase sound waves through the door speakers to counteract low frequency booming noises from the engine.

Active Noise Cancellation emits sound waves throughout the four door speakers in order to counteract noises that may distract and fatigue driver, such as low frequency booming from the engine.

Paint finishes

As standard, the Infiniti Q30 was offered with a Black Obsidian paint finish; extra-cost metallic paint finishes included Moonlight White, Blade Silver, Graphite Shadow, Magnetic Red, Ink Blue, Liquid Copper and Malbec Black.

Related links

• Specifications and equipment: Infiniti Q30 (August 2016)
• Infiniti Q30 News: Press Pack

Review: Infiniti H15.II Q30 (2018-19)

Overview

Released in Australia in December 2018, the Infiniti H15 Series II (H15.II) Q30 introduced a revised range that consisted solely of 2.0t variants in Pure and Sport editions (effectively replacing the Sport and Sport Premium, respectively).

Features: Infiniti Q30 Pure and Sport

For the Infiniti H15.II Q30, standard features were extended to include a digital radio tuner (DAB) and rear view camera. Other than these changes, standard features for the H15.II Q30 Pure and Sport were largely unchanged from the H15.I Q30 Sport and Sport Premium which they replaced.

For a complete list of features, please refer to the brochure below.

Related links

• Brochure: Infiniti H15.II Q30 (December 2018)
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti Q30

Review: Infiniti V37.I Q50 (2014-17)

Overview

Released in February 2014, the Infiniti V37 Series I (V37.I) Q50 was a mid-size sedan. Manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, the V37 Q50 was initially available with either a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine or a hybrid powertrain which consisted of a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and a 50 kW electric motor. Subsequently, however,

• 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines were introduced in September 2014; and,
• 3.0-litre biturbo V6 petrol engines were introduced in September 2016.

Drivetrains

Of the engines,

• For the Q50 2.2d, the 2.1-litre Mercedes-Benz OM651 turbo-diesel engine had a cast iron block, an aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, common-rail direct injection, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 16.2:1. The engine also had ‘start-stop’ technology which enabled it to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic and quickly restart when the driver’s foot was lifted from the brake pedal;
• Shared with the M35h sedan , the hybrid powetrain for the Q50 Hybrid combined Nissan’s 3.5-litre VQ35HR V6 petrol engine – operating on an Atkinson cycle – with a 50 kW electric motor that drew power from a lithium-ion battery pack that was located behind the rear seats. The hybrid system also had twin clutch motor control which enabled the V6 engine to be decoupled from the drivetrain when the car was in its electric drive and power regeneration modes;
• For the Q50 2.0t, the 2.0-litre Mercedes-Benz M274 petrol engine had a cast iron block, an aluminium cylinder head, a single IHI (ICSI) turbocharger, direct fuel injection, a hollow crankshaft, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), variable camshaft timing, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio 9.8:1. Like the OM651 engine, the M274 engine also had a start-stop function; and,
• For the Q50 3.0tt, the 3.0-litre VR30DDTT biturbo V6 petrol engine had an aluminium alloy block with an arc sprayed mirror coating for the bores, an aluminium alloy cylinder head with integrated exhaust manifold, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve timing (electronically and hydraulically controlled, respectively), direct fuel injection, water-to-air intercoolers and electronic wastegate actuators. For the 224 kW VR30DDT engine, peak boot pressure was 9.5 psi; for the 298 kW VR30DDT engine, a turbine speed sensor was fitted and peak boost pressure was 14.7 psi.

All engines were mated to seven-speed automatic transmissions which had sequential gearshift functions.

Dimensions

The Infiniti Q50 was 4783 mm long, 1824 mm wide, 1443 mm tall and had a 2850 mm long wheelbase; its drag coefficient was 0.26 Cd. While standard Infiniti Q50 models had a boot capacity of 500 litres, this was reduced to 400 litres for the Infiniti Q50 Hybrid.

Suspension

The Infiniti Q50 had single pivot, double-wishbone front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension with coil springs. While the standard Infiniti Q50 models had ‘Dual Flow Path’ shock absorbers,

• The Infiniti Q50 Hybrid had double piston shock absorbers; and,
• The Infiniti Q50 3.0tt variants had ‘Dynamic Digital Suspension’ which consisted of electronically-controlled shock absorbers with three drive modes: Standard, Sport and Sport+.

According to Infiniti, revised suspension settings were introduced in September 2016 to ‘provide an improved balance between confident handling and a comfortable ride’.

Direct Adaptive Steering

As standard, the Infiniti Q50 has rack-and-pinion steering with electric power assistance. Beyond this, the Q50 S and S Premium editions were fitted with Infiniti’s ‘Direct Adaptive Steering’ (DAS), an electronic steer-by-wire system. With DAS, the driver’s steering wheel inputs were electronically transferred to the front wheels by a high-response actuator which drives the steering rack. By eliminating mechanical losses that can slow the responses in conventional systems, steering response was faster and steering wheel vibrations were eliminated. Furthermore, the driver had the ability to adjust both steering weight and response (gearing) via a touch screen as part of the ‘Infiniti Drive Mode Selector’. DAS included a triple-mode back-up (three separate electronic control units) and a mechanical steering linkage as a failsafe.

From September 2016, the Infiniti Q50 was equipped with the second generation Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system which had revised control logic to provide greater steering feel and feedback. The upgraded system also provided additional options to adjust response and feel.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Infiniti Q50 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

The Q50 S editions were also equipped with Active Lane Control (ALC). Using a camera in front of the rearview mirror, this system detects lane markers and applies small steering force and angle adjustments to help the driver maintain a straight path.

Beyond this, Q50 S Premium editions were further equipped with:

• Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): enabled the driver to specify the desired speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. If the vehicle ahead slowed, ICC would automatically brake the vehicle to maintain the distance and resume the desired cruising speed when the vehicle ahead accelerated;
• Distance Control Assist (DCA): detected if the vehicle ahead was braking and provided feedback through the accelerator pedal to instruct the driver to remove their foot from the pedal;
• Predictive Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Forward Emergency Braking systems: used a radar sensor located behind the front bumper to alert the driver when there was a potential risk of a forward collision. When this occurred, a warning tone would sound and the ‘Vehicle Ahead Detection’ indicator light would illuminate. If active, the Forward Emergency Braking system would apply upward pressure on the accelerator pedal to alert the driver and provide partial braking. If the driver did not respond, additional audible and visual warnings were given and increased braking force applied;
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): a camera mounted near the rear view mirror would detect lane markers and whether the vehicle was drifting into another lane without indicating. A warning tone would initially sound, followed by autonomous braking of the wheels on the opposing side of the vehicle if the vehicle continued to drift;
• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Blind Spot Intervention (BSI): provided visual and audible warnings if another vehicle was detected in the blind-spot area (BSW). If the driver ignored the warning and attempted to steer into the other vehicle’s path, the brakes would be automatically applied on the opposing side of the vehicle to return the vehicle to its lane (BSI);
• Back-up Collision Intervention (BCI): could detect stationary objects and crossing traffic behind the vehicle and warn the driver via an audible tone and flashing light. If the driver failed to respond, the system would apply upward pressure on the accelerator pedal and momentarily apply the brakes to alert the driver;
• Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD): AVM was a parking aid which provided a virtual video image of the vehicle with surrounding objects, including moving objects; and,
• Active Front-lighting System (AFS) with High Beam Assist: included self-leveling headlights and, when travelling at speeds of 35 km/h and above, automatically turned off the high beams in the presence of oncoming traffic.

From September 2016, the Infiniti Q50 GT was equipped with:

• Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD);
• Active Front-lighting System (AFS) with High Beam Assist: and,
• Lane Departure Prevention (LDP).

Brakes

The standard braking package for the Infiniti Q50 consisted of 320 mm ventilated front brake discs with two-piston calipers and 308 mm ventilated rear discs with single piston calipers.

The Infiniti Q50 Hybrid and Q50 3.0tt, however, had 355 mm ventilated front brake discs with four-piston calipers and 350 mm ventilated rear disc brakes with two-piston calipers.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the Infiniti Q50 2.2d received a five star safety rating which included an 86 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 85 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, occupant protection was generally assessed as good, although chest protection for both the driver and front passenger was rated as adequate. In the side impact test, protection of the driver’s chest and pelvis was only rated as adequate and, in the more severe pole test, chest protection was assessed as marginal.

Based on the Euro NCAP testing, rear-wheel drive Infiniti Q50 models received a five star adult occupant protection rating from ANCAP with a score of 35.76 out of 37.

Features: Infiniti Q50 GT

Standard features for the Infiniti Q50 GT included 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R17 97W run-flat tyres, digital radio (DAB+), Infiniti InTouch dual touch-screen displays, satellite navigation system with Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC), climate control air conditioning, leather upholstery, power adjustable front seats, cruise control, LED headlights, daytime running lights, Bluetooth 3.0 audio streaming and mobile phone connectivity, remote central locking with proximity key, power windows and mirrors, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, driver memory settings, tyre pressure monitoring and an immobiliser.

As standard, the Infiniti Q50 also featured an ‘Active Noise Control’ function as standard which used four door-mounted speakers to cancel intrusive low frequency and an ‘i-Key’ system which could recognise different drivers and select from up to four separate profiles for driving position, heating and cooling, audio, navigation and telematics settings.

Features: Infiniti Q50 S and S Premium

The Q50 S was further equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/50 95W tyres, a fourteen speaker ‘Studio on Wheels’ Bose sound system, magnesium-modified gearshift paddles, a power sunroof with sliding sunshade and sports front bumper. The Q50 Hybrid S editions, however, were fitted 19-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension and a regenerative braking system.

For the Q50 S Premium, 19-inch alloy wheels and 245/40 R19 94W tyres were fitted as standard.

Features: Infiniti Q50 Red Sport

Compared to the Infiniti Q50 S Premium, the Q50 Red Sport could be identified by its black boot spoiler.

Brochure

• Brochure: Infiniti V37 Q50 (August 2014)
• Brochure: Infiniti V37 Q50 (August 2016)

Related links

• Specifications: Infiniti V37 Q50 (February 2014)
• Specifications: Infiniti V37 Q50 (September 2016)

Review: Infiniti V37.II Q50 (2017-19)

Overview

The Infiniti V37 Series II (V37.II) Q50 was released in Australia in October 2017. The V37.II Q50 range was simplified as the 2.2d variants and S editions were discontinued, while the ‘S Premium’ editions were renamed ‘Sport Premium’.

In August 2018, however, the Infiniti V37.II Q50 range was revised and the edition names were changed as follows –

• Pure (previously GT);
• Sport (previously Sports Premium);
• Blue Sport (previously the hybrid Sports Premium); and,
• Red Sport (unchanged).

Retail prices were also reduced at this time.

Styling

Visually, the Infiniti V37.II Q50 could be identified by its double-arch grille which had deeper detailing of the waved mesh-pattern surface and chrome surround, revised LED headlamps which enhanced ‘Infiniti’s trademark ‘human-eye’ aspect’ and slimmer LED rear combination lamps that were derived from the Q60 Coupe.

The V37.II Q50 Sport Premium and Red Sport editions were further differentiated by their more angular front bumpers, wider and lower front air intakes and more prominent aerofoil at the base of the front bumper. Unique within the range, the V37.II Q50 Red Sport had thin-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels, high-gloss black paint finishes for its door mirrors, a two-tone paint finish for its rear diffuser and dark metallic trim at the base of its rear bumper.

Interior

Inside, the Infiniti V37.II Q50 featured two touch-capacitive colour screens – an eight-inch upper screen and a seven-inch lower screen – for Infiniti’s ‘InTouch Services’ in-car connectivity system. Other changes included a digital speedometer for all editions, Infiniti’s ‘spinal support’ seats, leather-like materials with double stitching for the instrument panel surrounds, new wood trims for the dashboard, a new steering wheel with moulded positions for the driver’s thumbs and a new ‘performance-oriented’ leather gearshift knob that had an inlaid Infiniti logo and was surrounded by chrome trim.

For the V37.II Q50 Red Sport, unique features included red interior stitching, quilted side inserts for the seats, matte chrome finishes for the dashboard dials, aluminium dashboard trim with a patterned surfaces, matte dark chrome trim on the doors and a black headlining.

Suspension

For the Infiniti V37.II Q50, revised front and rear stabiliser bars were introduced to better resist lateral suspension movement. For the Dynamic Digital Suspension (standard for the 3.0tt variants), new adaptive dampers were introduced.

Safety equipment

For the Infiniti V37.II Q50, standard safety equipment was extended to include Active Lane Control.

Features: Infiniti V37.II Q50

Within the Infiniti V37.II Q50 range, standard features for the GT and Sport Premium editions were largely unchanged relative to their V37.I counterparts. For the Q50 Red Sport, standard features were extended to include semi-aniline leather seat trim with contrasting stitching.

For a complete list of features, please refer to the specifications document, below.

Specifications and brochure

• Specifications: Infiniti V37.II Q50 (October 2017)
• Brochure: Infiniti V37.II Q50 (August 2018)

Related links

• Infiniti Cars Australia: Infiniti Q50
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti Q50

Overview

Released in December 2012, the Infiniti V36 G Coupe was a luxury coupe. Manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, the rear-wheel drive G Coupe range consisted of the G37 model which was powered by a 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine. The VQ37VHR V6 engine had an aluminium block and heads, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 11.0:1 and Nissan’s VVEL (‘Variable Valve Event and Lift’) system which combined hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically-controlled variable valve lift on the intake side. Furthermore, the engine was mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission with a ‘Drive Sport’ (DS) Mode and Downshift Rev Matching.

The V36 G Coupe was based on Nissan’s FM platform which was shared with the Infiniti V36 G Convertible , Nissan V36 Skyline and Z34 370Z . As such, the G37 Coupe was 4655 mm long, 1820 mm wide, 1387 mm tall and had a 2850 mm long wheelbase.

The G37 Coupe had double wishbone front suspension and subframe-mounted multi-link rear suspension; S Premium variants were also fitted with four-wheel active steering (Infiniti’s ‘4WAS’).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the G37 Coupe included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. The G37 Coupe was also fitted with a pop-up bonnet which, in the event of a pedestrian collision, used a pyrotechnic charge to raise the trailing edge of the bonnet to create a larger buffer between the bonnet and the top of the engine.

Brakes

The G37 GT Premium had 320 mm ventilated front brake discs and 308 mm ventilated rear brake discs. The S Premium, however, had 355 mm ventilated front brake discs with four-piston aluminium calipers and 350 mm ventilated rear discs with two-piston aluminium calipers.

Features

Standard features for GT Premium variants included 18-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels with 225/50 R18 front and 245/45 R18 rear tyres, an eleven speaker Bose sound system with a CD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, a 10GB hard-drive, Bluetooth audio streaming and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), a satellite navigation system with a seven-inch colour touch screen, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a ten-way power adjustable driver’s seat, an eight-way power adjustable front passenger seat, leather seat trim, heated front seats, cruise control, front fog lights, bi-xenon headlights with washers and adaptive front lighting, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, flat folding rear seats, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, a power adjustable steering wheel (tilt and telescopic), driver memory settings (seat, steering wheel and mirrors), two 12 volt power outlets, a glass sunroof with a sliding shade and an immobiliser.

The S Premium variants were further equipped with 19-inch five triple-spoke alloy wheels with 225/45 R19 front and 245/40 R19 rear tyres, sports suspension, front sports seats with thigh extensions, a fourteen-way power adjustable driver’s seat and tyre pressure monitoring; the S Premium variants were also fitted with a viscous limited slip rear differential and a rear spoiler.

Related links

• Specifications: Infiniti V36 G37 Coupe (December 2012)
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti V36 G

Overview

Released in August 2012, the Infiniti Y51 M was an executive sedan. Manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, the rear-wheel drive M was available with three drivetrains: a 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine (the M37 variant), a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine (M30d) or a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and an electric motor (M35h). All models, however, were fitted with a seven-speed automatic transmission with adaptive gearshifting and downshift rev matching. Beyond the variants, the M sedan was available in GT, S Premium and GT Premium editions (the latter reserved for the M35h).

Based on Nissan’s FM-L platform, the M sedan was fitted with double-wishbone front suspension and independent, multi-link rear suspension. The M sedan was 4945 mm long, 1845 mm wide, 1509 mm tall and had a 2900 mm long wheelbase.

M35h

The M35h combined Nissan’s VQ35HR engine – operating on an Atkinson cycle – with a 50 kW electric motor which was installed in parallel between the engine and transmission. Electrical energy was stored in a 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack – expected to have a service life of ten years – which was fitted behind the rear seats. The M35h was fitted with an ‘Electric Driven Intelligent Brake’ system which used the electric drive motor to operate the brake cylinders; as such, braking force was maintained while the hydraulic pressure of the friction brake was controlled to maximise energy regeneration. Other innovations for the M35h include an electro-hydraulic steering system with ‘on-demand’ assistance – which sought to provide the feel of a hydraulic system with the fuel efficiency of an electric system – and twin clutches which enabled the V6 engine to be decoupled when the car was in its electric drive and power regeneration modes. The M35h could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Both S Premium and GT Premium editions were also fitted with:

• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Blind Spot Intervention (BSI): provided visual and audible warnings if another vehicle was detected in the blind-spot area (BSW). If the driver ignored the warning and attempted to steer into the other vehicle’s path, the brakes would be automatically applied on the opposing side of the vehicle to returns the vehicle to its original lane (BSI);
• Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): enabled the driver to specify the desired speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. If the vehicle ahead slows, ICC would automatically brake the vehicle to maintain the distance and resume the desired cruising speed as the vehicle ahead accelerated;
• Distance Control Assist (DCA): detected if the vehicle ahead was braking and provided feedback through the accelerator pedal to instruct the driver to remove their foot from the pedal;
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA): laser sensors calculated the distance to the vehicle ahead and, if approaching too fast, would warn the driver. If the driver did not apply the brakes in time, IBA would automatically brake the vehicle;
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): a camera mounted near the rear view mirror would detect lane markers and whether the vehicle was drifting into another lane without indicating. A warning tone would initially sound, followed by autonomous braking of the wheels on the opposing side of the vehicle if the vehicle continued to drift.

Furthermore, S Premium editions were fitted with a Low Speed Following (LSF) system which operated between 5 km/h and 40 km/h by autonomously accelerating and braking the vehicle in traffic. Unique within the range, the M35h was fitted with Infiniti’s Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system which used an in-car sound synthesizer with a speaker built into the front bumper. VSP would emit a range of high-low sounds at different volume levels according to vehicle speed to warn pedestrians of its approach.

Brakes

The GT editions were fitted with 320 mm diameter front and 308 mm rear ventilated disc brakes. The S Premium, however, was fitted with 355 mm ventilated front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and 350 mm rear ventilated discs with two-piston calipers.

Features

Standard features for the GT editions included 18-inch alloy wheels with 245/50 R18 W-rated tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD/DVD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, 10GB hard-drive, auxiliary input (3.5 mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth audio streaming, satellite navigation with an eight-inch touch screen, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, a ten-way power adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, semi-aniline leather seat upholstery, bi-xenon headlights with washers and adaptive lighting, front and rear fog lights, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, push-button start, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, power folding mirrors with automatic tilt when reversing, a power adjustable steering wheel (tilt and reach), driver memory settings (steering wheel, mirrors, seat position and climate control), sunroof, an electrochromatic rear view mirror, two 12 volt power outlets, tyre pressure monitoring, an alarm and immobiliser. All M sedans were fitted with a space-saving spare alloy wheel.

Compared to GT, the GT Premium added a sixteen speaker Bose Surround Sound system and a powered rear sunshade. The S Premium was further equipped with 20-inch light alloy wheels with 245/40 W-rated tyres, sport-tuned suspension, contoured front sports seats and a sports steering wheel and gearshift knob. The S Premium was also fitted with:

• Four-wheel active steering (4WAS) which would actively turn all four wheels while cornering and adjust the steering angle and ratio according to the vehicle’s speed; and,
• Dynamic Cornering Enhancement (DCE) which would adjust the torque distribution between the rear wheels and apply the brakes to individual wheels to reduce understeer.

Visually, the S Premium editions could be identified by their unique front bumpers, dark chrome grilles and blackened headlight surrounds and reflectors. Inside, there were aluminium pedals, black lacquer trim and a graphite roof liner.

Related links

• Specifications: Infiniti Y51 M Sedan (August 2012)
• Wikipedia.org: Infiniti Y51 M