Test driving new crossovers are usually a whole lot more fun than tootling around in a standard family car; the reason being that you get to take the crossover into more remote back road conditions. Electronic wizardry inside high-end crossovers can be remarkably apt for tackling slippery slopes and back roads. What is enjoyable about the way the Infiniti QX70 rides the dirt roads is the way in which the car sits nice and secure on gravel, while the noise levels are well muted in what is a superbly nice cabin to drive away the hours.
The Infiniti QX70 is definitely no vehicle for crossing the Simpson Desert, as ground clearance is more suited to blasting over the tarmac and mild gravel roads. With an advanced AWD system that runs most the time on RWD, the system neatly switches to 50:50 front and rear for AWD traction when, electronically, the vehicle detects slippage at either of the rear wheels. Secure handling on both the smooth roads and the gravel makes me vote the Infiniti QX70 as a superb vehicle for quick weekend ski trips – especially with the “Snow” driving mode at your fingertips – located on the centre console.
Inside the new Infiniti QX70, you’ll find the environment very classy. Sumptuous leather seating with accented Infiniti stitching, wood veneer insets and aluminium pedals add to the sophisticated and special QX70 experience. All the usual luxury items are standard on any of the three models available. On the outside, the curvaceous QX70 is athletic and trim.
The Infiniti QX70 models are loaded with safety equipment. One of the highlights is the state-of-the-art laser scanning system that warns you of a potential collision. The system is capable of avoiding any looming collision, as the brakes are employed to keep you in the clear. Another exceptional bit of new technology that the team from Infiniti have engaged in the QX70 models is the ability for the driver to have a virtual 360° birds-eye view of their surrounding environment while parking.
The new Infiniti QX70 is a great drive. So what are the models on offer? One popular choice will be that of the Infiniti QX70 3.0D, boasting an advanced 175kW, 550 Nm torque, 3.0-litre diesel engine that loves to pull strongly whatever the speed and load. Heated front seats and dual power outside mirrors come as standard, while automatic dual-zone climate control help keep the cabin environment cool and relaxed on a blistering hot day. An eight-inch high resolution touch screen display, a Bluetooth hands-free phone system and a Bose premium sound system that rocks the airwaves with no less than eleven speakers mean you’re in pure luxury. I love my music, so buy an Infiniti QX70 for the concert-like surround-sound system! Also, the QX70 3.0D sits on 20-inch, 5-twin spoke alloy wheels and looks the business.
Two petrol models are also available. The bigger of the two, the QX70 5.0-litre, boasts a top speed of 250 km/h and a 0-100 km/h sprint time of a sports car-like 5.8 seconds! With a 287kW V8 motor, access to the beaut 500 Nm of torque is low down in the engine revs. This is a smooth invigorating powerhouse that always feels plenty powerful for any challenge. It’s not the thriftiest on fuel, but then this is probably not your main concern if you buy into this very premium crossover package. Wide, 21-inch, 6-spoke alloy wheels look gorgeous, while cornering sensors and a navigation system are some of the great features you’ll enjoy.
The smaller Infiniti QX70 3.7 is all style, and even though smaller in cc than its bigger V8 brother, you’ll love the way the very smooth delivery of power is on song in the mid-range. With 235kW and 360 Nm of torque, the 3.7 Litre V6 engine is no slouch and remains rewarding to drive.
All Infiniti QX70 models have the seven-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode option.
Relaxed, composed and elegant, you’re on a win-win with the spacious new Infiniti QX70.
The Infiniti QX70 models include the:
For any more information on the Infiniti QX70, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quotes requests out to our national network of Infiniti dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!