2019 Infiniti Q70L Review

The Q70L is the long-wheelbase variant of the Q70 midsize sedan and the largest sedan sold by the luxury Japanese brand. Featuring the same basic line-up of trims and powertrain options, the Q70L is available with either a 3.7-liter V6 or 5.6-liter V8 powertrain configuration, and both are available with either rear- or all-wheel drivetrains. These powerful engines produce 330 horsepower and 420 hp respectively and are built into a 5.9 inch-longer framework than on the standard Q70, which opens up more space in the cabin for comfort. The Q70L is luxurious and comfortable on the inside, and boasts athletic capabilities from under the hood; however, it has little to offer in terms of updated infotainment features and modern technology. The Q70L finds itself competing in the same segment as the Lexus GS and Cadillac XTS, while it's longer wheelbase sees it vying for a share of the sales from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series as well.

What's the Price of the 2019 Infiniti Q70L?

The cheapest model of the Q70L range is the 3.7-liter variant with rear-wheel drive configuration, which has an MSRP of $50,400 and a destination charge of $995. Further additions can be made to this vehicle in terms of custom paint work (at $500) as well as kick plates and spoilers, performance tires, and the ProACTIVE and Premium Select bundles that range in price between $2950 and $5000 extra. The fully loaded model, the 5.6 Luxe trim with rear-wheel drive costs $65,150 without any further additions made. To configure either of the base models to all-wheel drive adds $2,550 to the total price.

Handling and Driving Impressions

With the extended wheelbase, the Q70L is designed to give a limo-like experience to passengers, and while the comfort levels in the cabin provides a lavish experience, the vehicle does translate road bumps to the interior and has less than impressive handling around corners, due in part to its extended length. The standard suspension tends to be quite firm, and sub-standard damping results in a significant amount of bounce over larger bumps This doesn't lend itself well to rear-passenger comfort. Despite this, the steering is precise when it needs to be (when negotiating parking spaces or back roads) and firm on the open road. Braking on the Q70 range is superb, and rates better than most rivals - the vehicle responds immediately, and confidently when the brake pedal is pressed.

Verdict: Is the 2019 Infiniti Q70L A Good car?

The Q70L proves impressive on two fronts: powerful engines that produce satisfying outputs, as well as a spacious, luxurious cabin. Despite these advantages, however, the onboard technology is outdated and fares negatively against rivals such as the Lexus and Cadillac, let alone German opposition. Although numerous features are standard on even the base model, the latest driver assist features must be additionally purchased, and even then pale in comparison to what is available on other vehicles in this segment. Road handling is also less than ideal although the overall ride comfort is sufficient. But other premium sedans offer a better marriage between luxury, power, and driveability. With the majority of complaints centered on aging technology and features, it would ultimately be a better choice to wait for the newly designed model in the hopes that these negatives have been mitigated, or consider the Lexus GS 350 as an alternative.

What Infiniti Q70L Model Should I Buy?

On the base trim, leather upholstery throughout the cabin offers ventilated seating in the front and heated seats in the back, together with rear reading lamps and additional power outlets. An eight-inch touchscreen includes navigation and a premium Bose sound system, all of which is also available on the top-end trim. The only significant difference between the two available trims is the size of the engine. If investing in the Q70L range, the 5.6 Luxe trim is the better option, notably due to the larger V8 engine with more power to cater to the larger size of the Q70L. We recommend equipping the ProACTIVE package so as to make use of the much-needed driver assist features and enhanced safety systems which are not included as standard. Equipping the all-wheel drive configuration does not add anything more to the vehicle's driveability and sense of handling, and can be set aside in favor of an additional bundle for further comfort features such as suede headliners, soft-touch armrests and door inserts and more luxurious interior trim.

2019 Infiniti Q70L Comparisons

2019 Infiniti Q70L vs Lexus GS

Featuring similar engines, both the Lexus and the Q70L have powerhouses beneath the hood. However, the Lexus range includes a hybrid option as well as more powertrain configurations than what is available in the Q70L range. With the Lexus being the cheaper option of the two, the standard features available is quite evenly matched. The Lexus' engine options produce less power on the GS 350 but also prove to be more frugal in terms of fuel economy. Whilst the Q70L is the clear winner in terms of cabin space and comfort, the Lexus provides a much more pleasant and refined ride, with better handling, less road noise, and reduced bump-feedback to the passengers. Both vehicles have outdated infotainment systems, and in general, could do with some upgrades. On the whole, the Lexus is the better option and comes out on top due to better value for money and a sweeter drive at the expense of rear legroom.

2019 Infiniti Q70L vs Cadillac XTS

Between these two vehicles, the Cadillac has a better entry level price as well as many more standard safety features than what is on offer from the Q70L range. The Cadillac also scores far better in safety tests and - although having a smaller cabin volume - boasts a much larger trunk. Engine outputs are relatively similar, with the Q70L still faring better in terms of outright horsepower. On the base entry models for both brands, the Q70L is the clear winner in terms of infotainment features available and premium sound system, however the lagging and outdated technology detracts from this. The Cadillac does provide a smoother drive than the less-than-ideal handling ability of the longer-wheelbase on the Q70L, and for the price range, would prove to be the better option.