For those of you confused by the model’s name, Infiniti recently switched to a new naming convention wherein all of its cars start with the letter “Q” while its SUVs and crossovers start with “QX”. Thus, the Q70 3.7 is the sedan formerly known as the Infiniti M37.

As the 3.7 in the nomenclature suggests, power for the 2014 Infiniti Q70 3.7 AWD Sport comes from a 330 horsepower 3.7-litre V6 engine capable of generating 270 ft-lbs of torque. A seven-speed automatic transmission directs the engine’s output to the wheels. Fuel economy is rated at 12 L/100km in the city and 18 on the highway.

Other Q70 drive options include a gasoline/electric hybrid system consisting of a 3.5-litre V6 with a 50kW electric motor for a combined output of 360 horsepower. Infiniti also offers the Q70 with a 420 horsepower 5.6-litre V8 delivering 417 ft-lbs of torque.

As delectable as the output figures for the V8 sound, we found the V6 to be more than adequate for motivating the sedan. If you enjoy the feel of a responsive car, you’ll love the way the Q70 3.7 AWD Sport goes. Nicely balanced, with exceptional throttle response, accurate steering, and very proficient braking, the Q70 is a treat for the enthusiast driver. The all-wheel drive system is biased toward the rear in steady state driving to preserve the feel of a rear drive car, and when called upon for additional traction the system can transfer up to 50 percent of available power to the front wheels.

If you’ve ever relished the sound of Nissan’s 370Z or Infiniti’s Q60 (the model formerly known as the Infiniti G37 Coupe), then you’ll love the Q70 3.7’s voice too. It’s that same guttural growl, though toned down a bit for luxury sport sedan duty. What’s more, the V6 pulls strongly throughout its rev range-although it does exhibit a bit of thrash up around redline. Still, the thrust the engine generates is more than enough compensation for that minor irritation.

Fitted with Infiniti’s Drive Mode Selector, the Q70 allows you to dial up the personality trait you’d like it to exhibit. In the “Eco” mode it retards throttle response in an effort to maximize fuel economy, in the “Normal” mode it operates-well-normally, and in the “Sport” mode the Infiniti practically leaps forward whenever you prod the throttle. Meanwhile, the “Snow” mode helps keep things in line when the coefficient of friction between the tires and the drive surface is low.

The Q70 is Infiniti’s flagship, so of course the interior is outfitted in a palatial fashion. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are almost mesmerizing. Supple leather upholstery and tastefully distributed chrome touches provide nice counterpoints to the highly polished wood console gracing the centre stack. Looking like fine cabinetry, it also places all of the controls within easy reach of the driver-while simultaneously pleasing the eye.

Standard equipment includes a power-actuated soft-closing trunk lid, keyless entry and start, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, leather for the steering wheel, shift knob, and door panels, a pair of heated 10-way power adjustable front seats with driver memory, and a power-adjustable tilt and telescoping steering wheel. You’ll also find a rearview video monitoring system as part of the seven-inch colour display enhanced infotainment system that also includes navigation, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system supporting a CD player, auxiliary audio, and USB/iPod input ports. Satellite radio is included as well. The upgraded 16-speaker Bose audio system in the Sport even fits speakers in the front seats for added stereo imaging. Other Sport-specific features include blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and prevention, as well as brake assist with collision warning.

That “Sport” suffix also means it also comes equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires. A set of magnesium paddle shifters is included for the automatic transmission along with a sport-tuned suspension system, a more robust braking system, a thick-rimmed sport steering wheel, deeply bolstered sport seats, and Infiniti’s sport grille and front fascia treatment.

A quick word about the sport suspension system: being die-hard cornering fiends we loved the way it kept the sedan flat in turns and did its “level” best to keep the Infiniti’s tires firmly planted upon the pavement in every maneuver. However, we did note a certain firmness of ride, one some might find uncharacteristic for a luxury car. We know what it does and why it does it, so we love it for being what it is. However, if you’re on the sensitive side about things of this nature you might want to try it before you buy it. There is a more comfort-oriented version of the Q70 3.7 Sport called the Q70 3.7 Premium. This version of the car is offered with a slightly softer suspension setup for those who value ride over handling.

Either way, if you’re looking for a sumptuously equipped luxury car with outstanding performance potential and a stealthy appearance, the Infiniti Q70 3.7 AWD Sport might well be the car you’ve been looking for. If you love to drive, you’ll absolutely love this Infiniti. Q70 3.7 AWD Premium pricing starts at $60,100, while our Q70 3.7 AWD Sport test car starts at $67,100.
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