Infiniti Unveils The All-New Q30

Infiniti Q30 (Credit: Infiniti )

The Q30 is an incredibly important new model for Infiniti, which is why it’s a big deal that the luxury automaker has finally given everyone a clear view of it. Soon enough, the luxury hatchback should be populating streets around the globe.

It’s key that the Q30 makes a great first impression, because the vehicle is going up against some stiff competition. For the moment, it’s the only compact car that will be offered to consumers. Small luxury vehicles have been red hot lately, including the Audi A3 and Mercedes CLA.

Right off the bat, many have noted that the production version of the Q30 has actually incorporated the big design elements from the concept, which was originally shown off in 2013. The nose wears the curvy rectangular grille and the thin chrome treatment at the front edge of the hood. With the slanted and angular headlights, the production model carries over that aggressive look that some seemed to love so much.

Sweeping creases down the side of the car help add an athletic feel, but the fenders don’t bulge like on some competing vehicles. The wheels are nice-looking but pretty nondescript, so hopefully Infiniti offers some optional designs for those who want a little more spark. The C-pillar has the signature forward-facing point like on other modern Infinitis, which is a design element that has sparked some controversy.

For now, Infiniti isn’t showing off the rear of the Q30. If the rest of the car is any indication, it shouldn’t be too far off from the concept, making for a reasonably attractive all-around package. Of course, there will always be critics, with some people already accusing Infiniti of appropriating Mazda’s Kodo Soul of Motion design language. While there are definitely some similarities, there are also enough differences to make the Q30 look definitively like an Infiniti.

Production will fire up in England before 2015 runs out. Car shoppers can expect to see the first Q30s hit showroom floors before the end of December. The new model will be at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, where everyone will get a better look and learn more details.