2018 Infiniti Q70 Review

This familiar luxury sedan has been around for almost a decade (albeit under another name to start), and despite offering a spacious interior, comfortable drive and various options to choose from in terms of engine configuration, this five-seater is up against some rather stiff competition. Compared to the likes of German enigmas like the BMW 5 Series and the suave Jaguar XF, the Q70 is due for a serious update on almost all levels. An aging infotainment system is not the only disadvantage on the 2018 range, although most of the areas where rivals fare better could be remedied by a full, modernized redesign since much of the vehicle has remained the same over the course of the last seven years. An enthusiastic V8 engine is one positive for the 2018 year, and the option of either a more fuel-efficient hybrid model or longer-wheelbase variant for a more luxurious feel exists within the current range.

What's the Price of the 2018 Infiniti Q70?

Priced between $50,300 and $67,600 the range offers many choices in terms of drivetrain and engine options. At the entry point is the 3.7 Luxe RWD which has an MSRP of $50,300, excluding a destination charge of $995, whilst the V8 engine trim, 5.6 Luxe is priced at $63,350, with the same destination fee needing to be added. Both gas-engine options can be configured with all-wheel-drive for an additional $2,550.

2018 Q70 Exterior

Dimensions

2018 Q70 Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

Marketed as a luxury sedan, the Q70 offers in-drive comfort from a soft suspension and composed sense of handling, paired with an engine that should be serving up a sporty drive. This marriage isn't well-matched in all respects though, and the vehicle can seem shaky on rough surfaces, particularly when riding on the available 20-inch wheels. In terms of handling, however, the Q70 does actually impress: nimble and athletic around corners and bends despite its heft, this vehicle handles like a smaller sports sedan. Some bounce does feedback to the cabin, but this can be remedied through the purchasing of the Sport package for upgraded suspension and sport-tuned springs.

The steering on this sedan is really light and accurate, making for effortless maneuvering in smaller spaces, and a nice, weighty feel on the open road. Together with reassuring and well-calibrated brakes, this is really where the Q70 excels. Although some of the more performance oriented competitors in this segment may offer better handling, the Q70 compares really well and is a relaxed, competent and eager vehicle to drive.

2018 Q70 Interior

2018 Q70 Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Verdict: Is the 2018 Infiniti Q70 A Good car?

The Q70 is a good car when it comes to safety and value-for-money as a comfortable luxury sedan. It is well-equipped as a base model and offers a spacious and well-designed cabin for passengers. Both engine options feed sufficient power through to the wheels, although the V8 engine undoubtedly proves to be the stronger and more sonorous choice. Ride and handling are impressive too, striking a balance between sportiness and luxury and feeling nimbler than many a heavyweight in this segment, while good braking performance inspires driver confidence.

Below-average cargo space isn't as big a problem in this segment, but the lack of split folding rear seats is a concern for the odd occasion the large trunk isn't big enough. The biggest issues arise from the outdated and awkward infotainment system that brings the Q70 down, as well as the sub-par gas mileage estimates from the large displacement, non-turbocharged engine offerings. Whilst not being a bad vehicle, buyers may benefit from waiting for an updated model next year, if one arrives, or shopping around for a better-equipped rival such as the Audi A6.

What Infiniti Q70 Model Should I Buy?

This vehicle almost begs for the buyer to choose the 5.6 Luxe with the powerful V8 engine. To make the most of what is on offer, the top-of-the-range model is the best choice from this range as it is relatively well equipped in terms of comfort and luxury. Unless the buyer has a specific need for all-wheel drive, the rear-wheel drive is more than sufficient, offering a good, comfortable ride with adequate handling. The one package that is a necessity is the PRoACTIVE package, for the variety of driver aids and advanced safety features it adds to the vehicle. Buyers can forego the expensive Sport package, but the Sensory Package is a worthwhile addition.

2018 Infiniti Q70 Comparisons

2018 Infiniti Q70 vs BMW 5 Series Sedan

A comparison with the powerhouse German sedan is almost inevitable as it can be seen as the quintessential sport and luxury sedan. Although priced much higher than Q70, the full house of safety features and onboard conveniences justify the price, especially when a smooth, supple and athletic drive is also on the table. The BMW is an all-rounder and scores higher in almost every regard. The BMW has a heavier body, a smaller engine and despite this has very similar gas mileage to the Q70. The Infiniti only has the upper hand in terms of a more spacious cabin and a more palatable total cost. We would still shell out more money for the performance-oriented BMW, however.

2018 Infiniti Q70 vs Jaguar XF Sedan

At the outset, the Jaguar boasts a much more appealing, contemporary design and offers an ultra-premium cabin. In contrast to the Q70, the Jaguar has the option to fold down the rear seats and expand the trunk volume, and with similar interior dimensions to the Q70, is equally as pleasant to be in. The Jaguar offers a far more composed drive, although the XF range is only available in four-cylinder and six-cylinder engine configurations that are overwhelmed by the V8 powertrain available in the Q70. Suffering from the same problematic infotainment system, the Jaguar is also lacking proper smartphone integration, and as both are in the same price range, it makes for a difficult choice between the two. Based on better build quality and improved driveability, the Jaguar comes out the winner, although the Q70 is close behind.