By Asian Journal Auto Editor

Infiniti Q60 30tsport_The sleek low-slung 2018 Infiniti Q60 Coupe is fitting replacement for the old Infiniti G35. With its aggressive, expensive looks, and squat, muscular stance, it’s the epitome of a fast, luxurious performance-orientated sports coupe. There are three models available; the entry level Q60 2.0t with AWD priced at $45,990; the Q60 3.0t AWD at $52,990 and the top line Q60 Red Sport 400 AWD that is listed at $60,990. The base Q60 arrives with a 208 horsepower, 258 lb. ft. turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with Mercedes-Benz origins, while the higher model 3.0t lose as tested arrives with Nissan’s new VR30 twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 available with 300 horsepower and 295 lb.ft. as we tested. Do note, there is a mighty 400 hp and 350 lb.-ft. available in the Red Sport version.

All 2018 Canadian spec cars are equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmissions, all-wheel drive and 19-inch alloy wheels. The power gets sent to the rear wheels by default, while an all-wheel drive system can split the power 50/50 between the two axles. The interior of the Q60 features a neat, sports orientated cabin features typical Infiniti touches with a pleasing array of textures and cool design cues. The dash features Infiniti’ new InTouch infotainment system that has a pair of touchscreen displays, with the lower 7-inch display offering HVAC information and car and entertainment settings menus while the upper screen presents navigation. Our 3.0t Luxe was based priced at $53,295 and came with a mighty $5200 worth of option comprised of the ProASSIST, and ProACTIVE safety systems and a sublime white pearl paint option. Final tally was $61,290 with options freight and PDE.

Standard equipment on the Q60 is high, and includes LED headlights and daytime running lights, eight-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, 19-inch wheels, passive keyless entry and a backup camera. The 3.0t Luxe model as tested adds electronic power steering and remote start, dark grey wood interior trim, sport brakes, driver’s power lumbar and torso supports, sport-tuned suspension, auto-dimming side mirrors and performance tires. The 3.0t model also offers power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Infiniti InTouch with Navigation and Infiniti InTouch Services, driver’s seat power lumbar, driver’s seat power torso bolsters, heated steering wheel and remote start. The interior is very classy, with a heady mixture of sporty leather, bright metal trim and high-quality plastics, and luxury. It is a roomy, opulently finished cabin with comfortable front and rear seats. Our tester also featured the optional ProAssist package and ProActive package and included blind-spot warning, blind spot intervention, adaptive cruise control, backup collision intervention with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, forward emergency braking, lane departure warning, and Lane Departure Prevention with Active Lane Control.

2018 INFINITI Q60 LUXEOn the road, the Q60 handles different road surfaces with instantly adjusting dampers. The result is as controlled and stable ride. Handling is also enhanced by the new, revised second-generation Infiniti’s Direct Adaptive Steering, which by way of its steer by wire electronic linkage smooths out vibrations with a direct linear feel. Also helping out in the driving dynamics is the Q60’s Active Trace Control, which adjusts brakes and suspension settings as needed. The Q60 arrives with five driving modes, with sport plus being the most entertaining. The new engine is a turbine smooth unit that proves willing and with ample power at the mid and top range of the tach. Fuel consumption estimates are 12.4/8.8 (city highway) for 3.0t Luxe.

Not a lot to complain about, there is no manual transmission sadly, that would probably add more excitement for sporty drivers, but it is understandable that the demand may not be there. In short, a highly desirable sports coupe with an excellent blend of performance, luxury, style and refinement. Test drive highly recommended!

2018 Infiniti Q60 3.0T Luxe AWD priced from $53,295. Price as tested: $61,290 with options, freight and PDE.