Infiniti Q30 2016 Review
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2017 Infiniti Q30 Review: Stylish Hatchback with Unique Features
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The Infiniti Q30 is the Japanese brand’s first attempt at a hatchback, and it stands out impressively. Targeted at young, trendy individuals who wish to differentiate themselves and challenge the status quo, the newest addition to the Infiniti lineup competes alongside established segment leaders such as the Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series.
Key Features
| Key Features: | |
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged / 4-cyl |
| Transmission | 7-speed Dual-Clutch |
| Power | 208hp / 350NM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/h |
| Price | AED 153,000 |
Exterior
Built on the third-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class platform, the Infiniti Q30 shares much with its German counterpart, though not in styling. With dimensions of 4,425mm in length, 2,083mm in width, and 1,475mm in height, it embodies a crossover’s size, a hatchback’s styling, and a coupe’s sloping roofline.
Distinctively Infiniti, the Q30 showcases crisp creases and flared panels throughout its bodywork, giving it a fluidic appearance. Its intricate styling details play a crucial role in the Infiniti Q30's pursuit of success.
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Interior
The interior of the Q30, while familiar, offers its own unique charm. The connection to the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is evident throughout the cabin. Wrapped in leather and Alcantara, the interior exudes sportiness with a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and well-bolstered sports seats.
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Safety & Features
The Q30 comes equipped with numerous safety features, including front and rear parking sensors, a lane departure warning alert, 4-wheel ABS, and 7 airbags. Its impressive 5-star Euro NCAP crash rating is no surprise. Additionally, its speed limit reminders help keep notorious drivers in check.
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However, the Q30 features a 7-speaker Bose sound system and an inbuilt Sat-Nav that are underwhelming. The speakers lack the expected clarity and punch, while the Sat-Nav comes with a dated interface that fails to impress.
Drive
The performance-oriented hatchback, donning a Sport badge, is the heaviest in the Q30 lineup at 1,584 kg. With a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 208 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, though the engine note is somewhat uninspiring.
The rigid suspension setup minimizes body roll around tight corners, but it lacks adjustable dampers, making it feel overly stiff for everyday city driving. While the dual pinion electronically assisted steering is well-weighted, it lacks feedback.
As you shift through the gears, the sportier ratios provide quick acceleration at minimal throttle input. However, in stop-and-go traffic, the driving experience can become frustrating, resulting in a jerky ride in this sporty hatchback.
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Verdict
The Infiniti Q30 targets a unique market segment: the trendy millennials. While it aims to cater to diverse tastes, it may seem like a jack of all trades and master of none. Nevertheless, as Infiniti's first foray into the hatchback arena, it is undoubtedly an impressive attempt.
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Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique design helps the Q30 stand out on the streets of the UAE.
- Engine packs the right amount of punch.
Cons:
- Jerky ride as the transmission always feels it should be in the next available gear.
- Dull, uninteresting engine note.
Rivals
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