Can’t decide whether you prefer the utility of a crossover or the performance and looks of a luxury sports sedan? With the 2014 Infiniti QX70 —formerly known as the FX — you just might be able to have the best of both worlds.
In accordance with the new nomenclature happening at Nissan’s luxury division, the second generation CUV follows the QX naming system for their larger vehicles with the Qs being reserved for sedans, coupes and convertibles. What hasn’t changed is the crossover’s aggressive design resembling a cheetah sitting on its haunches ready to pounce. Contributing to this is the low roofline, slanted headlight housings and bulging fenders. There is also a pair of distinctive metallic air vents behind the front wheels that help reduce front-end lift.
There isn’t much in the interior that screams wild animal, save for the leather on the seats that feature quilted centres and contrast stitching for that extra bit of high class feel. The driver’s seat is 10-way adjustable and has an available auto driving positioning system that will accordingly guide your mirrors and steering wheel for you any time you move your seat. Additionally when you turn the car off, the seat slowly and automatically slides back, presumably to allow for easier exit out of the vehicle. Something that is more annoying than convenient, in my own experience. The QX has a full suite of optional safety equipment such as a 360-degree backup camera, Intelligent Brake Assist, Forward Collision Warning and Distance Control Assist that helps maintain distance to the vehicle ahead including pulsing the accelerator pedal as a warning that braking may be necessary.
Two engine configurations are available: the 5.0-litre with 390 horsepower and AWD and the 3.7-litre, 325-hp engine that can be had with all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. Our press car came with the latter motor option that let out a jungle-cat-worthy growl under any amount of acceleration, even if it wasn’t excessively speedy with a relatively low 267 lb-ft of torque coming on at 5,200 rpm. The standard-seven speed transmission has a manual shift mode but no paddle shifters for the smaller displacement engine, and the computer learns the driver’s shifting habits and will alter shift timing accordingly. Downshifts are also rev matched, but can still feel clunky at times.
The best thing about having a crossover sports sedan merger is the way the vehicle behaves when you drive it. It’s just the right size so you never feel like it’s any bigger than a regular car, while you’re on the road or parallel parking. The independent suspension and use of aluminum for some of its body parts also help it handle more like a big hatchback than a small SUV.
Highlights (as tested):
MSRP: $45,750 (base)
Motor: 3.7-litre V6
Horsepower: 325 @ 7,000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 267 @ 5,200 rpm
Gearbox: seven-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control
Layout: front engine, rear-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 13.8 L/100 km city/9.8 highway (manufacturer estimate)