2017 Infiniti QX30: First Look

Competes with: Lincoln MKC, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, Lexus NX 200t

Looks like: Someone has a serious aversion to straight lines

Drivetrain: Powertrains haven’t been confirmed for the U.S. market, but we expect it to use its Q30 sibling’s 208-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; all-wheel drive; seven-speed dual-clutch transmission

Hits dealerships: Summer 2016

Compact luxury crossovers are becoming more and more common, and Infiniti has been right there in the market with its EX35. Now it’s decided to redesign its entrant and the result is the QX30, a taller, all-wheel-drive version of the new Q30 compact SUV. The QX30 made its debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show.

More Los Angeles Auto Show Coverage

Exterior

Most automakers say their new designs make a “bold statement,” but in this case Infiniti backs it up with curvy styling across the front, sides and back. Infiniti styling cues, including the grille and rear-roof pillar, carry through to the QX30.

The rear glass slants forward, which likely will cut into cargo room, but we’ll have to wait until we get up close with the QX30 to see how much of an effect it will have. Infiniti also says the lower bodywork trim is grained for a rugged look and features satin-finished chrome inserts for a luxurious look.

Interior

If the exterior wasn’t curvy enough, fear not: Infiniti carries the swoops to the inside with a design that it says features “dissymmetry” to create a more pleasant environment. The standard interior is black cloth, and black or beige leather is optional.

The front seats have been designed to reduce driver fatigue by featuring a shape that more closely follows the shape of the human spine. Also, the seats are wider, with a soft seat cushion to further support the driver. 

Finally, Infiniti said it designed the interior with extensive sound-absorbing materials to cut down on wind, road and engine noise in the cabin.

Under the Hood

Infiniti hasn’t yet finalized which engines are coming to the U.S. and other markets, but look for more information closer to when it debuts in the middle of 2016. We expect it to use the same 208-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that the Q30 uses. The QX30 will feature standard all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Safety