?2014 Infiniti QX70 3.7 AWD?
New Nomenclature Blends Aggressive Styling and Performance
Infiniti, Nissan?s luxury division for reasons of its own decided to change the alphanumeric nomenclature of their entire model lineup. Initially, it?s a bit confusing ? a case in point, with the Infiniti G37 models, the ?37? used to indicate the engine size (3.7-liters). Now that model has become the Q60 rather than G37. So, the former Infiniti G37 Coupe is now the 2014 Infiniti Q60 Coupe, which will come in a variety of trims or models: Q60 Coupe Journey, Q60 Coupe AWD and Q60S Coupe 6MT, along with two Infiniti Performance Line? (IPL) models, the Q60 IPL Coupe and Q60 IPL Coupe 6MT. The same holds true for what used to be the FX stable of SUVs, but is now dubbed QX70 and will star the QX70 5.0 AWD model as its flagship. The Infiniti QX70 5.0 AWD model features a standard 390-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 with Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) and Infiniti Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
Also offered as part of the Infiniti QX70 lineup will be the QX70 3.7 AWD and QX70 3.7 RWD. Both will be powered by a 325-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 with VVEL. Note that the power does not come from a 7.0-liter engine, but is still provided by a 3.7-liter V6 or a 5.0-liter V8. What does this new nomenclature mean? We?re not sure, but in time it will undoubtedly become familiar.
All three QX70 models will come standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission that features a wide ratio of coverage and wide lock-up area, as well as a manual shift mode, Downshift Rev Matching and standard Adaptive Shift Control. Solid magnesium paddle shifters are available with the QX70 5.0 AWD Sport Technology Package, while Infiniti’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control system with Traction Control System is standard on all models.
For QX70 AWD models, Infiniti’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically redistributes torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions.
Ever since that first 2003 Infiniti FX bowed, throwing down the gauntlet for crossover styling, the aggressive design has continuously evolved, without compromising its DNA and recognizability. Styling for the 2014 Infiniti QX70 retains its aggressive image, still serving notice of its performance underpinnings, displaying its long hood, and lengthened wheelbase with short front and rear overhangs. The design’s distinctive side air vents, located behind the front wheels, allow air to flow through the engine compartment and out the side of the vehicle, reducing front-end lift. The front grille is bold, with the fascia design framed by signature High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights and standard fog lights.
In profile, the QX70’s aggressive and athletic silhouette is highlighted by a strong front-to-rear shoulder line, a taut greenhouse, angled-back roofline and integrated rear spoiler, with its large LED taillights extending beyond the body, helping to increase aerodynamic downforce. Large dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers cap the aft end look.
The 2014 Infiniti QX70 is offered in a variety of vibrant exterior colors, and beneath the polished, exterior is an advanced body structure, that provides room for five adults with the capacity to hold four full-size golf bags. QX70 utilizes a rigid FM (for Front Midship) platform architecture, with a balanced front-to-rear weight distribution that aids in sporty handling performance. Weight reduction and body strengthening are achieved through the use of aluminum doors and hood.
Moving to the inside, the Infiniti QX70’s cabin includes a command center-style cockpit designed to enhance the driving experience. Standard leather-appointed front seats offer 10-way driver’s side (including power lumbar)/8-way passenger side power adjustments and are available with a heating and cooling function for maximum comfort in any season. Heated front seats are standard on all models. The available driver’s sport seat adds power-adjustable side bolsters and a manual thigh extension, allowing for a tailored fit for comfort and driving support. The high-tech interior design includes an Infiniti signature double-wave instrument panel and Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges.
An automatic driving position system is also available, which moves the steering wheel and outside mirrors adaptively into the correct position when the seat is adjusted ? allowing the driver to change the seat position and keep the same mirror viewpoint and relationship between the steering column and driver’s shoulder position. Comfort and convenience features range from a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob to dual front and rear cupholders, four 12-volt power outlets, power windows with front one-touch auto-up/down function, power door locks and available tonneau cover and aluminum pedal accents.
Hospitality features include the Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition and Sequential Welcome Lighting Illuminated Entry system that starts with turning on the outside mirror courtesy lights as the driver approaches the vehicle and continues to light key areas as driver and passengers settle into the interior. Three available interior colors are offered: Wheat, Graphite and Java.
Each Infiniti QX70 model comes equipped with an advanced Bose? Premium Audio system, acoustically engineered to optimize sound within the interior, and featuring 11-speakers, an AM/FM/CD player and USB connection port for iPod? Interface and other compatible devices. Also standard are SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), diversity antenna and steering wheel-mounted remote audio controls.
Infiniti?s advanced Hard Drive Navigation System ? standard on QX70 5.0 AWD, available on QX70 3.7 models ? features NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic Information and NavWeather with Real-Time Weather Information (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Zagat Survey? restaurant guide and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth?, along with an Infiniti Voice Recognition system for navigation and audio systems.
QX70 models utilize an independent suspension at all four corners, with a double-wishbone suspension design in front and a multi-link design in the rear, with large-diameter stabilizer bars in both the front and rear. The suspension system also incorporates special Dual Flow Path? shock absorber technology with rebound springs for a responsive yet comfortable ride quality and positive handling.
For drivers seeking a higher level of handling adjustability, a Continuous Damping Control suspension system is available that allows the driver to choose between “Auto” and “Sport” settings.
The QX70 5.0 AWD is also available with an advanced Rear Active Steer system, which can actively turn the rear wheels for sharper turn-in. Braking is provided by 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD).
The QX70 5.0 AWD is also available with an advanced Rear Active Steer system, which can actively turn the rear wheels for sharper turn-in. The system uses precise, electronic motor-driven control to turn the rear wheels up to one degree, helping generate a nimble steering response at low speeds and enhance handling feel at high speeds.
Braking is provided by 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). The QX70 5.0 AWD includes 4-piston front/2-piston rear opposed-piston brake calipers and large brake rotors (14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear).
QX70 3.7 models come standard with 18-inch 10-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels mounted with 265/60R18 all-season tires, while the QX70 5.0 AWD features six-spoke 21-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/45R21 all-season tires. Unique five-spoke 20-inch wheels are offered as part of the Deluxe Touring Package on the QX70 3.7.
Advanced Technology and Safety Systems abound in the 2014 Infiniti QX70 as well as the latest in connectivity and infotainment applications.
There are four option packages available, allowing consumers to tailor comfort and convenience features to suit their needs: A Premium Package; a Deluxe Touring Package; a Technology Package and a Sport Technology Package.
My test 2014 Infiniti QX70 was an AWD model powered by the 3.7-liter V6. The exterior was finished in Midnight Mocha metallic, while the interior was done in Java. The base sticker read $46,400 while adding the Technology, Deluxe Touring and Premium Packages and Destination charges elevated the final total to $57,945.
SUMMARY: The 2014 Infiniti QX70 3.7 AWD with all the options that were incorporated into my test vehicle should prove to be more than enough SUV for the average consumer. Obviously, the 5.0 V8 delivers more to the table in terms of both performance and standard equipment and features.
In terms of its appearance, the QX70 remains extremely curvy and futuristic in its design form. It is highly attractive to most beholders, but certainly not to all. In terms of its performance, the 3.7-liter V6 is certainly more than adequate in virtually all driving scenarios, whereas the 5.0-liter V8 would outshine the V6 in towing duty.
Ride quality is exceptionally stable and planted while remaining comfortably luxurious. Handling characteristics lean to the sporty side of the equation, with a positive on-center steering feel.
Bottom line, regardless of how Infiniti?s new badging nomenclature is interpreted, the Infiniti QX70 has certainly lost none of its FX predecessor?s appeal, and in true fashion, Infiniti continues to positively evolve across the board without compromising the intended purpose of each individual model.
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?[wptabtitle] SPECIFICATIONS: 2014 Infiniti QX70 AWD [/wptabtitle]
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| Base Price: | $46,400. |
| Price as Tested: | $57,945. |
| Engine Type and Size: | 3.7-liter VQ37VHR, DOHC, 24-valve, V6 with sequential Multi-port fuel injection. |
| Horsepower (bhp): | 330 @ 7,000 rpm |
| Torque (ft./ lbs.): | 270 @ 5,200 rpm |
| Transmission: | Electronically controlled seven-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control, and manual shift mode with Downshift Rev Matching. |
| Drive Train: | Longitudinally mounted front engine / RWD or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive . |
| Suspension: |
Front – Independent double wishbone with coil springs and stabilizer bar. Rear – Independent multi-link with coil springs and stabilizer bar. |
| Brakes: | Power-assisted four-wheel vented discs with 4-channel/4-sensor/4-wheel ABS, BA and EBD. |
| Tires: | Bridgestone Dueler H/P 245/40 R20 all-season mounted on 20×9” split 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. |
| Wheelbase: | 114.2 inches |
| Length Overall: | 194.7 inches |
| Width: | 72.6 inches |
| Height: | 59.6 inches |
| Curb Weight: | 4,030 lbs. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 20.0 gallons |
| EPA Mileage Estimates: | 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway |
| Drag Coefficient: | 0.27 |
| 0 – 60 mph: | Not tested. |
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Arv Voss is a Northern California based freelance motoring Journalist and member and past officer of several noted Automotive Journalist organizations who contributes regularly to a number of national and international media outlets. He reviews not only cars, trucks and SUVs, but motorcycles as well.
