(May 12, 2014) With a fresh new exterior and available long wheelbase version, the new 2015 Infiniti Q70 targets a new vehicle class by fusing the emotion-packed character of a performance vehicle with the comfort and exclusiveness of an extended sedan.

Infiniti proclaims that its evocative design, class-leading rear space, invigorating performance, innovative technology and superior craftsmanship combine to make the new Q70 a strong offering in this category. The Q70 was formerly known as the Infiniti M. The 2014 Q70 starts at about $50,000, so expect about the same for the base model of the refreshed 2015 version. Infiniti did not offer 2015 pricing, including the new longer wheelbase model.

Infiniti says, "brimming with personality, the Q70 has always been boldly original, standing out from competitors by providing true-blue sport performance with genuine prestige and user-friendly technologies. It has consistently delighted both the enthusiast driver and connoisseur of fine things with Infiniti's renowned engaging performance that never compromises on ride comfort."

Infiniti is now extending its Q70 family with the introduction of a long wheelbase variant, as well as the regular version, to the U.S. and other markets. The additional 5.9 inches in the wheelbase not only increases the knee and leg space in the back but also greatly augments the athletic presence of the sedan.

With its compelling design and premium interior ambience, the long wheelbase Q70 broadens Infiniti's offerings for those who desire enhanced spaciousness and versatility, appealing to the sporty sedan fan who also requires executive levels of interior room.

"We know our customers desire more choice and prestige. The long wheelbase Q70 is our offer to them," said Vincent Gillet, vice president, Marketing. "The Q70 delivers on all accounts — attention to detail, highly crafted materials, class-leading rear roominess, comfortable ride, and superior levels of interior quietness."

The new Q70 is powered by a range of powerful and highly efficient powertrains is available, starting with the 3.7-liter V6 and 5.6-liter V8 petrol engines, both of which are equipped with Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) that combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side to help improve performance and response.

The refined 3.7-liter aluminum-alloy DOHC 24-valve V6 is rated at 330 hp @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb/ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm, while the 5.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) aluminum-alloy DOHC 32-valve V8 is rated at 420 hp and 417 lb/ft of torque for the standard model and 416 hp and 414 lb/ft of torque for the long wheelbase version.

Also available is a hybrid powertrain featuring the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control.

It combines a 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy V6 and compact laminated lithium-ion battery design with an innovative one-motor/two-clutch motor control. The system's V6 is rated at 302 hp @ 6,800 rpm and 258 lb/ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm, while the advanced 50 kW electric motor is rated at 67 hp and 214 lb/ft of torque.

Infiniti's approach to gas-electric hybrids is to use the electric motor to boost performance and power, much like how a traditional supercharger would function. This gives the Q70 an immediate surge of torque in the low revs before the 3.5-liter V6 kicks in to push the overall power output to 360 hp.

This hybrid powertrain propelled the then Infiniti M Hybrid into the Guinness World of Records as the world's fastest accelerating full-hybrid car in September 2011, and went on to be the only hybrid named to the prestigious "Ward's 10 Best Engines" list in 2012. Billed as a "driver's hybrid", the powertrain delivers speeds that appeal to the sporty driver, and clean power that pleases everyone.

All the engines are matched to a 7-speed automatic transmission, which allows for sportier shifts during spirited driving. Solid magnesium paddle shifters are also available. Customers can choose between rear-wheel drive or Infiniti's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, which uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically redistributes torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions, ensuring sure-footed road holding at all times

In line with the focus on the driver, the new Q70 features technologies that enable individuals to customize the driving feel. The unique Infiniti Drive Mode Selector allows drivers to select from four driving modes — Standard, Eco, Sport or Snow — and the integrated control system will adjust throttle sensitivity and transmission mapping to help optimize performance. To encourage eco-driving behavior, the available Eco Pedal provides feedback directly through the accelerator by giving a slight pushback if driving inefficiently.

The new Q70 utilizes the advanced Front Mid-ship (FM) platform, which positions the engine behind the front axle, resulting in an optimized front-to-rear weight balance. Laser welding is carried out at critical locations to help enhance lateral bending stiffness, torsional stiffness and suspension mounting point stiffness.

Precise handling is provided by an independent double-wishbone design at the front and multi-link independent suspension in the rear, along with front and rear stabilizer bars. The rear suspension geometry has been designed to provide a quiet, comfortable ride. The available double-piston shock absorbers control damping force according to the frequency of input from the road surface for a smoother ride. To increase ride comfort on the new Q70, Infiniti engineers have further tweaked the shock absorbers to respond with greater precision to inconsistencies in the road surface so as to minimize uncomfortable "shaking and bobbing" as well as reduce the vibrations when driving on uneven roads.

The steering system on the new Q70 is an electronically controlled speed-sensitive variable-assist power rack-and-pinion design. Helping the driver to maintain control of the vehicle at all times is Infiniti's advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control System. The available Active Trace Control feature also adjusts engine torque and braking at each wheel to help enhance cornering performance.