But I’ll tell you where the QX70S excels, and it’s the same quality that enabled the earlier FX models to shine so brightly. Heavy as it is (1,915 kg, and this with aluminum hood and doors), the QX70S has really fine driving dynamics. Put it on a twisty road and its handling will surprise you. It’s much nimbler and more responsive than you may expect, delivering a secure and stable ride as it carves its way around tight corners and accelerates sharply when the road straightens out. The vehicle feels solid, the chassis stiff, the ride firm but smooth.

Its second area of excellence – with a couple of caveats – is its exterior design. I think it has great lines. Its sleek, purposeful looks continue to appeal and make it a good choice for the buyer who wants something different. The caveats are that the formidable front end can delay forward visibility when cresting a hill, and that the QX70 in its current form is nearing replacement (see below).

Long and low, you do have to perform a little human origami to fold yourself into the front seat, but after thunking your head a few times, you smarten up. And once inside and on the road you have a fine interior to enjoy and reasonably decent fuel economy at the “official” rating of 14.6/10.7 L/100km city/highway. I generally did better, seeing 13.1 city and about 11.0 highway. Premium fuel is required, though.

Finally, the interior fit and finish is well crafted and designed, and the seats offer excellent comfort and support. I’d be happy to take this vehicle on a long road trip any day.

Warranty:
4 years/100,000 km; 6 years/110,000 km powertrain; 7 years/unlimited distance corrosion perforation; 4 years/100,000 km roadside assistance

Competitors:
Audi Q5
BMW X5
BMW X6
Lexus RX
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Porsche Cayenne

My feeling about the Infiniti QX70S is that it’s really for two people who carry passengers occasionally and largely use the cargo area for groceries and smaller items. It’s not an off-roader, a big rig hauler, or a furniture mover. It’s about style, performance, craftsmanship and value. Compare this to a similarly equipped German equivalent and you’ll be saving a lot. And if you load up the QX70 (without the “S”) with technology and premium packages, you’ll be below $60,000.

Expect The QX70 models to be significantly updated (replaced, even) over the next year or two. Infiniti is in the process of revising its entire lineup, having begun with the Q50 sedan and introducing shortly a Q30 hatchback and QX30 crossover. Future vehicles will follow these styling cues.

Pricing: 2016 Infiniti QX70S
Base Price: $60,150
Options: $3,500 (Technology Package)
Freight/PDI: $2,030
A/C Tax: $100
Price as Tested: $65,780

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