(April 19, 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.

Its evocative design, class-leading rear space, invigorating performance, innovative technology and superior craftsmanship combine to make the new Q70 — previously known as the M — a strong offering in this category.

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, Infiniti Motor Company Limited. "The Q70 delivers on all accounts - attention to detail, highly crafted materials, class-leading rear roominess, comfortable ride, and superior levels of interior quietness."

Staying true to its roots of sporty precision, the new Q70 is the result of methodical calibration by Infiniti engineers who have utilized smart technologies to achieve the exact balance of ride comfort and handling, performance and fuel economy.

A range of powerful and highly efficient powertrains is available, starting with the 3.7-liter V6 and 5.6-liter V8 gas 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 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb/ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm, while the powerful 5.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) aluminum-alloy DOHC 32-valve V8 is rated at 420 horsepower and 417 lb/ft of torque for the standard model and 416 horsepower and 414 lb/ft of torque for the long wheelbase version.

Also available is an award-winning 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 horsepower.

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 an advanced 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.

Seductive lines, dynamic curves

The refined elegance of the Q70 takes on a new dramatic design which gives the premium sedan an even more upscale image. Its flowing, emotional lines evoke a premium sleekness.

At first glance, the new headlights impress immediately. Infiniti's signature LED headlights imply inner intelligence and human insight, leaving an unforgettable impression. The distinctive headlights accentuate the new double arch grille, which now takes on a more three-dimensional look due to the elaborate detail of the high-quality waved mesh finish and chrome surround. The same solid feel is echoed in the new front bumper with integrated fog lights, giving the Q70 a dignified presence on road.

From the front, a strong body line rises from the grille, flowing through the bodyside like a wave and blending into the shape of the new rear LED combination lights, forming a compelling profile that highlights the Q70's sporty stance.

At the rear, the new design of the tail lights creates a horizontal flow in motion while the high-quality lighting signature evokes a fresh and classy image. The top line of the trunk lid has been flattened while the rear bumper has been slimmed down to create a longer and lower visual impression, further emphasizing the premium sedan's sporty and powerful styling. The chrome rear finisher adds a touch of class to the entire rear view.

The Sport version features a specially designed front bumper that gives an even lower and wider stance, and 20-inch wheels and tires, while the lower part of the rear bumper is finished in high-gloss black paint to make it look even more athletic.

The design of the new Q70 continues to offer enhanced airflow over the body, resulting in zero front and rear lift as well as a low coefficient of drag of just 0.26 for the hybrid, 0.27 for the standard version and 0.28 for the Sport model.

Premium quality, detailed craftsmanship

Reflecting the sensuous lines of the exterior, the new Infiniti Q70 continues to serve up a well-appointed and inviting interior with high-quality materials such as handcrafted wood accents and custom leather appointments, meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, as well as user-centered technologies.

Infiniti has always paid special attention to the driver and, in the new Q70, the interior is designed to "fit like a glove", so that the carefully tailored and crafted cockpit becomes an extension of the driver. Important controls and switches are so intuitively located that the driver does not have to change driving posture to access them.

The instrument panel consists of Fine Vision gauges and a 7-inch full color vehicle information display, while the driver and front passenger's seats are leather, heated, and feature 10-way power adjustment, including 2-way lumbar support.

While the Q70 is known to have a roomy interior, the additional 5.9 inches in the long wheelbase version takes the extended sedan's rear roominess beyond what competitors offer. Rear knee room is at a best-in-class 32.4 inches, so rear seat passengers can comfortably cross their legs. The rear ingress and egress are also top in segment, which makes traveling in the back of a premium sedan a more enjoyable experience for taller passengers.