Beirut - MENA Herald: At an exclusive event in Beirut, (Lebanon) Infiniti Middle East took the covers of the hotly anticipated all-new Infiniti Q30. The Infiniti Q30 active compact is a new type of premium vehicle for a new type of consumer. Representing Infiniti’s first entry into the fast-growing premium compact segment, the Q30 will play an important role in continuing to drive the growth of the brand here in the region.
Juergen Schmitz, Managing Director, Infiniti Middle East said: “When we first debuted the Infiniti Q30 to the region at the Dubai International Motor Show last year – it was met with widespread critical acclaim. We are extremely proud to be here today when we can officially launch the car to all markets in the Middle East. The Infiniti Q30 is a completely new segment and direction for the Infiniti brand and we are confident that this vehicle will continue to deliver Infiniti’s premium experience to a new segment of customer.”
The Q30 takes Infiniti’s signature design cues and evolves them into new dynamic shapes. The double-arch grille with 3D mesh, for example, has grown from the Q50, with a more fluid movement into the headlamps. The dramatic curves and turbulent lines flow up the bonnet, over the fenders and across the body line into the strong shoulder of the car.
The signature C-pillar arcs forward in a dynamic crescent shape that emphasises motion, even when stationary. The contrast of the long, low-slung roof-line, conjuring an image of a rakish shooting brake in silhouette, and elevated stance add to the visual impact. This also adds to a sleek look that gives the impression of the car being in motion even when standing still. The balance of sculptural shapes moving past one another creates a harmonious design that can be appreciated at a glance.
An important, differentiating characteristic of the Q30’s design is its combination of elevated stance with an overall height that is comparable with models in the traditional compact segment. The Q30’s height (1,495mm) allows for a higher hip point (531mm), which aids ingress and egress. The A-pillar design is intentionally slim, contributing to enhanced visibility for a confident driving experience.
The Q30 Sport stands a little lower (1,475mm), accentuating the already distinctive, coupe-like silhouette, which is emphasised by a shallow side glass area, while also providing for agile ride and handling. Driving performance will also be differentiated, thanks to individual suspensions settings and distinctive ride and handling characteristics – offering premium compact buyers a choice that is specific to their personal needs and preferences.
The Q30 Premium includes LED front fog lamps, body-coloured and heated door mirrors, as well as chrome dual rectangular exhaust finishers. 18-inch alloy wheels add to the Premium grade’s striking appearance.
On the technology front, the Q30 delivers in spades as the best equipped with the highest level of assistive technology in the segment. This includes’ Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Intelligent Parking Assist, Forward Collision Warning with Forward Emergency Braking and Blind Sport Warning.
A first for Infiniti and this category, the Intelligent Parking Assist is designed to work in the three most common parking situations, tight parallel parking, 90 degree backing-in and heading –in parking. Using 12 sensors in the front and rear, the system automatically steers the vehicle into place with the additional help or audio and visual warnings whilst the driver controls the brake and accelerator.
Ranking among the best in the premium compact segment, front passenger seat width is 1,393mm; rear passenger seat width measures 1,349mm; head room (without sunroof) is 108mm in the front and 43mm in the rear of the car. There is 626mm of leg room in the front and 538mm in the back, and 1,324mm and 1,244mm of hip room front and rear, respectively.
Cargo capacity is highly competitive, notably the boot capacity of 430 litres. Aided by a wide, square aperture, and practical, squared-off dimensions, the boot will easily hold two large suitcases, with 60:40 split-fold rear passenger seats liberating additional space for larger cargo.
At launch, the Infiniti Q30 will be available with 1.6L or 2.0L Turbo variants in a 2WD configuration. The 2.0L Turbo will also be offered with an optional AWD drivetrain. The 2.0L Turbo engine delivers 208hp and 350Nm torque. When equipped with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the highest-performing engine in the range is capable of powering the Infiniti Q30 from 0-to-100kph in 7.3 seconds.