This is the QX70 and is Infiniti's answer to the likes of the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE (previously known as the ML Class).
The
QX70 certainly looks like no other SUV on the road with its
cab-backwards arrangement and long sleek bonnet. Very coupe-ish. A low
swooping roofline and huge 20-inch wheels combine to give it an
aggressive stance on the road and that curvaceous bonnet and chrome
grille with huge Infiniti badge displayed front and centre, clearly
announces itself in rearview mirrors.
The QX70 in reality provides
an alternate choice for those shopping for an SUV Coupe, popularised
more recently by the X6 and forthcoming Merc GLE Coupe. It's interesting
to note, that the QX70 predates the X6 by 6 years, laying claim to the
SUV Coupe way back in 2003. Considering Infiniti has only been available
in South Africa since 2012, it's not hard to see why the X6 has stolen
its thunder.
That sloping roofline does rob the QX70 of rear
interior space, and I only just managed to get my 6-foot frame in the
rear with the driver’s seat set to my own comfortable position. The boot
also suffers somewhat and will only swallow 410-litres of cargo with
the rear seats up, which isn't much more than a regular hatchback. Fold
the rear seats down though and cargo space increases to roughly 1
300-litres.
Inside drivers are well catered for with a superbly
comfortable 10-way power adjustable seat with passengers receiving 8-way
power adjustment. Both are heated and ventilated meaning your bum stays
warm in winter and cool in summer. A nice feature is a power adjustable
steering column which can be adjusted for both height and reach,
meaning finding the optimum driving position is a cinch.
