Mar 30, 2015

At the 2015 Geneva International Motor Show, Infiniti didn’t waste any time letting the world know what they have up their sleeve. Infiniti introduced the QX30 crossover concept car, the next generation of the Q30, which you might remember was a concept introduced in 2013. But the QX30 is certainly different than its predecessor. The QX30 is what Infiniti calls a “premium compact crossover.” It combines elements of a coupe, hatchback and crossover to create a compact, aggressively designed small SUV. Plus, it has a higher stance than the Q30, it’s wider and more rugged, and it features a few updated design elements.

The QX30 was all the chatter at the show, and at Lake Norman Infiniti, we couldn’t be more excited about the design. It’s certainly a bold step forward, and the QX30 will be well-aligned to compete with compact crossovers from Volvo and Audi. Plus, the QX30 will complement Infiniti’s existing crossovers, like the QX50 and QX60. Unfortunately, a production date hasn’t been set, but Infiniti said that the QX30 will likely be introduced in the 2016 model year. By all counts, this new crossover might be less than a year away.

Under the Hood: Performance Specs

Although Infiniti didn’t release all the details, we do know quite a bit about the QX30’s drivetrain. First, it will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That will provide plenty of power, and considering the Q30 concept was inspired by vehicles from Infiniti’s racing division, it makes sense Infiniti chose a more-aggressive engine.

Infiniti didn’t provide much in terms of output details. But industry insiders agree that the new QX30 will likely provide in the range of 220-250 horsepower. Plus, the vehicle is expected to be offered with Infiniti’s Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive, as well as a seven-step automatic transmission. This type of turbocharged power will help the QX30 stand out in the class, and the QX30 certainly manages to walk the line between a sporty coupe and a roomy crossover.

Plus, the Infiniti QX30 concept has a bold, flowing exterior. Included in the design are sleek 21-inch alloys, a massive front air intake and updated fascia, dual exhaust, and sculpted headlamps. Overall, the design is aggressive; the QX30 looks ready-to-pounce.

Style and Technology: A Fully Loaded Compact Crossover

From its roomy interior to a wide-array of technology, Infiniti says they’re determined to make the interior of the QX30 extremely competitive. That will include touches like Infiniti’s signature InTouch app suite, as well as other Infiniti technology like around-view cameras, safety technology and an array of infotainment features.

Infiniti didn’t release details about exactly what features would be available, but they did say the QX30 would combine style, spaciousness and technology to create a state-of-the-art cabin. Other interior style features included two-tone leather seating surfaces, a streamlined dash, and a spacious rear seat. Both inside and out, the QX30 concept takes cues from Infiniti’s already successful crossover vehicles, including the QX50 and QX60. So it’s likely the interior of the QX30 will be similar, with the same innovative technology and an elegant design.

Infiniti QX30 Crossover Concept Car

Infiniti’s Move Into a Growing Segment, Coming in 2016

The premium compact crossover segment continues to grow, attracting more and more Generation X and Generation Y buyers, Infiniti said in a press release. That’s one of the main reasons for the introductions of the compact Q30 and QX30; they’re designed for these buyers who are interested in stylish, yet practical vehicles.

Now, we’ll just have to wait and see when the QX30 goes into production. Infiniti said the car would be built in England, along with a sports coupe that’s designed around the Q60 Concept, starting next year. Yet, they didn’t offer any details or a determined timeline, but officials did say the launch was “earmarked” and will come next year in 2016. So expect to see the QX30 in showrooms sometime next year!

Curious about other recent Infiniti concept cars? Check out our article on the release of the Q60 concept coupe, or read about the Synaptiq, a futuristic flying car concept that was a fan favorite in the L.A. design challenge.

In the meantime, if you’re looking for an Infiniti that’s already in production as your next vehicle, visit Lake Norman Infiniti in Cornelius, NC or call us at 855-336-7160.