Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
The 2014 QX70’s DNA continues to comprise cheetah genes, the new model a bit larger and heavier than the first-generation FX, yet the larger 3.7-litre engine capable of a lot more energy. The original 3.5-litre V6 put out 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque compared to the new model’s 325 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Yes, there’s a little bit less thrust, but that’s more than made up for
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
That just shows how far we’ve come in 11 years. The QX70’s story of more size, power and weight yet better performance and fuel economy is one of many such similar scenarios, its main rivals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche touting their
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
A diesel may not suit Infiniti’s performance-first image, mind you. Other than the family-focused JX35, now dubbed QX60, Infiniti has long been the truest of performance brands, and the QX70 not only fits the mould, it could arguably be seen as the torchbearer. Like I said in the beginning of this review, it began life by spraying dirt on the X5 and Cayenne, and since then the newer more radically penned second-generation FX (that moves into 2014 with nothing more than the QX70 name change) carries this message loud and clear. Lexus has nothing that directly competes, its RX 350 competent in its own right, albeit nowhere near as sporty
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
With all this emphasis on performance you might think the QX70 is somehow lacking in luxury, but nothing could be farther from the truth. The woods are plentiful and finished in the richest gloss the industry has to offer, while chromes and brushed metals highlight details. All other surfaces that aren’t covered in soft quilted leathers are made from high-quality pliable plastic, delightful to the touch and ideal for sound absorption. The seats are supremely comfortable, but not in a grandma’s sofa sort of way. They balance firm support with just enough cushioning to not rub any bony parts the wrong way, and their 10-way driver and eight-way front passenger power adjustment means you shouldn’t have any trouble
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
My tester’s front seats were not only heated, but climate controlled, meaning they were ventilated for a cooling effect when hot weather might otherwise scorch the black leather-lined cabin. Climate controlled seats are just the beginning of the $5,650 Navigation and Deluxe Touring Package, which also includes maple interior accents, aluminum foot pedals, a rear cargo cover and 20-inch alloy wheels. Infiniti also offers a $9,150 Technology Package that adds Intelligent Cruise Control with full-speed range and Distance Control Assist (DCA), rain-sensing wipers, Lane Departure Warning (LDW) with Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), and front pre-crash seatbelts, but oddly it can’t be had with the above mentioned Navigation
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
That entry-level QX70 already comes with all the expected safety gear such as ABS-enhanced four-wheel disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, traction and stability control, a full assortment of airbags, active front headrests, front seatbelt pretensioners, tire pressure monitoring, and the list goes on.
I should
Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press |
Fully functional and about as sporty as SUVs get, the 2014 QX70 carries on where the already impressive FX left off. Truly, for your money you’ll be hard pressed to find a better sport utility.
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