2016 INFINITI Q70

The Q70 lineup is split into V6 and V8 models, both of which are available with all-wheel drive and an extended wheelbase. There's also a hybrid in the mix, which comes only in rear-drive, standard-wheelbase form.

• Your choices start with the rear-drive, V6-powered 3.7 at $49,850. Standard features include navigation, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a Bose sound system, and surround-view cameras.
• The extended-wheelbase 3.7L ($51,350) provides an extra 6 inches of rear legroom, which essentially transforms the Q70 into a full-size luxury sedan. Both the 3.7 and 3.7L can be equipped with all-wheel drive for $2,150 extra.
• The Hybrid lists for $55,900 and carries the same standard features as the 3.7.
• The V8-powered Q70 5.6 starts at $62,850, or $64,550 in L form. The 5.6 carries additional standard equipment, including ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an in-dash DVD player. As with the 3.7, all-wheel drive is optional with either wheelbase.
• All models are eligible for a $3,300 Technology package, which adds accident-avoidance features such as lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and front collision mitigation with automatic braking.
• You also have a choice of two trim packages: The Deluxe Touring package provides upgraded interior furnishings and Bose surround-sound for $3,900. The Sport package ($3,300, n/a on Hybrid) includes a sport-tuned suspension, beefier brakes, and specific trim throughout.

The base 3.7-liter V6 produces 330 horsepower, while the 5.6-liter V8 offers a rambunctious 420 horsepower (or 416 in long-wheelbase models). The Q70 Hybrid carries a 3.5-liter V6 and electric motor that together achieve 350 horsepower. All three engine are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Performance highlights include:

• Steering/Handling: This is without question the Q70's strong suit. Few luxury cars of this size are so nimble and athletic.
• Transmission: The seven-speed automatic has been retuned this year for smoother shifts. Four different modes are available to tailor transmission performance to your driving needs.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Hybrid delivers 29 mpg around town and 34 mpg on the highway. These figures are truly impressive considering the hybrid setup is slightly more powerful than the gasoline V6.

• The Q70's relatively firm suspension can't deliver the isolated, magic-carpet ride of some large luxury sedans.
• The V8 makes its presence known when you hit the gas. The sounds aren't unpleasant, but competing V8s are quieter.

• There are plenty of high-quality materials on display throughout the cabin. The design is friendly and visually pleasing, almost artistic.
• Long-wheelbase models carry larger rear doors and and abundance of knee room for a limo-like experience.

• In standard-wheelbase form, the Q70 can't measure up to full-size rivals inside, even though it weighs just as much as many of them.
• The rear compartment might be a bit too cozy. The high window sills and trunk lid limit visibility, especially for shorter passengers.

In terms of comfort and quality, the Q70 is fully competitive with vaunted European sedans costing thousands more.

While the Q70 is certainly attractive on the outside, it doesn't looks as prestigious (or expensive) as a sedan of its caliber should.

Brimming with character and performance, the Q70 represents a near-equal mix of luxury and sport.