Infiniti introduces a more efficient 129g/km entry-level Q70
2015-02-11 18:13:25
The updated Infiniti Q70 will emit just 129g/km of CO2 and cost from £32,650 when it joins the Infiniti network in January thanks to the introduction of a new 168bhp 2.2-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine developed as part of Infiniti’s co-operation with Daimler.
The 2.2-litre diesel unit produces 295lb ft of torque and is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. This brings spirited performance, accomplishing the 0-62mph sprint in 8.9 seconds before going on to reach 137mph. Not at all too shabby considering that the new engine produces 70bhp less power than the engine it replaces. It should also be able to return 57.6mpg.
The entry-level Infiniti Q70 Premium comes well equipped too, featuring as standard full LED headlights, chrome accents on the front grille, a rear-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, 18-inch alloy wheels, full leather trim with heating and ventilation, and Connectiviti+ satellite navigation system. The cheapest BMW 5-series is the £33,665 518d Luxury, but in addition to a higher price, comes with a manual gearbox.
The Q70 2.2d Sport gets a more aggressive styling pack, uprated brakes and 20-inch wheels, and costs from £35,850.
Premium and Sport models can also be purchased with an optional Tech pack, which adds intelligent cruise control, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring. In addition, it also features a 16-speaker Bose stereo, Infiniti’s Around View Monitor and an upgraded air-conditioning system.
In addition to the 2.2-litre diesel engine, the Q70 is also available with a 3.7-litre V6 petrol unit. However, due to relatively high running costs, sales of this model in the UK are expected to be very low.
The pinnacle of the range remains the award-winning Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid power train that now introduces enhancements first seen on the Q50S Hybrid. These changes have ensured that both performance and efficiency have improved too, with the 0-62mph sprint being possible in just 5.3 seconds with CO2 emissions being reduced to 145g/km.
The improved efficiency of the new model, coupled to the significant reduction in price should help ensure that the revised Q70 will become more attractive to business and fleet buyers. It will need to be, since the Q70 competes in a sector that is dominated by the German brands with the Audi A6, BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-class.
This article was prepared by First4Auto our car news team.
Reported By
Andrew Merritt-Morling
Chief Editor
