In 2014, when Nissan’s luxury division adopted a new model-name pattern, the previous M35 and M56 sedans morphed into two versions of the Q70. One gets a V6 engine; the other, a V8. For 2015, INFINITI added an extended-length Q70L sedan, adding 5.9 inches to the standard sedan's wheelbase. As a result, back-seat occupants enjoyed an additional 5.6 inches of leg space. While some Q70L sedans doubtless go to buyers who are chauffeur-driven, those extra inches might tempt anyone who appreciates an expansive rear compartment.
What's New for 2017
Last year, INFINITI added a Premium Select Edition for the regular-length Q70. For 2017, that option group also is available on the extended-wheelbase Q70L.
Choosing Your INFINITI Q70L
Choosing the most suitable Q70L is a snap, starting with a choice between drivetrains. The base 3.7 trim includes a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 330 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. The alternative, dubbed 5.6, substitutes a 5.6-liter V8 that delivers 416 hp and 414 lb-ft. Both engines are available with optional all-wheel drive as an alternative to standard rear-drive, and each comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
As estimated by the EPA, fuel economy is identical to the regular-length Q70. Expect 18 miles per gallon city, 25 highway, and 21 combined for the V6. All-wheel drive drops the estimate by one mpg on the highway and combined ratings, respectively. The EPA estimates the V8 at 16 city, 24 highway, and 19 mpg with rear-drive, while adding all-wheel drive again sacrifices one mpg on the highway and combined ratings.
Five option packages are available for the Q70L 3.7 or Q70L 3.7 AWD, but only four cost extra:
The least expensive option group is actually free of charge (complimentary, according to INFINITI). That's the Premium package, which includes such upgrades as navigation, voice recognition, traffic and weather alerts, INFINITI Connection telematics, an Around View monitor, and a 10-speaker Bose sound system. Also included are climate-controlled front seats, leather-appointed seating, parking sensors, and a heated steering wheel.
Next is the $1,150 Performance Tire and Wheel package, which includes 20-inch alloy wheels and sport brakes.
Then comes the $3,300 Technology package, adding adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning with prevention, blind-spot monitoring and intervention, forward-collision warning with emergency braking, backup collision intervention, adaptive front lighting, and more.
New for 2017, the $3,300 Premium Select package includes dark chrome exterior trim, unique 20-inch alloy wheels, a suede-like headliner, aluminum interior trim, illuminated kick plates, and sport brakes. The two versions of this package – Graphite and Stone – determine the upholstery shade. Graphite features black leather, while Stone is gray.
The $3,900 Deluxe Touring package adds premium items like Bose Studio Surround Sound, semi-aniline leather seating with a quilted pattern, a suede-like headliner, power rear sunshade, and more.
Just about every feature that’s standard on the Q70L 5.6 is offered as an option on the 3.7 trim level. This makes it possible to purchase the more fuel-efficient, V6-powered Q70L 3.7, and still pack it full of premium features by making careful choices among the available option groups.