The 2015 Infiniti Q70 Sport takes a distinct approach to the executive sedan class by prioritizing raw engine character and driver engagement over predictable luxury styling. Positioned as a sharp refresh of the former M series, this mid-size four-door pairs a bold exterior redesign with mechanical upgrades tailored for handling enthusiasts. You get a choice of a high-revving V6 or a muscular V8, wrapped in a chassis tuned to handle corners with surprising agility.
Beneath its flowing sheet metal, the Sport package adds unique visual aggression and a firmer, performance-oriented suspension setup. If you're shopping the used luxury market for a sedan that stands apart from standard German alternatives, this model deserves a close look. Let's break down how it drives, what it costs to live with, and whether it still holds up.
Powertrain Options and Performance Figures
Performance defines the identity of the Q70 Sport. Buyers had two primary powerplant choices for this model year, each routing power through a responsive seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift modes and rev-matching downshifts.
- 3.7-Liter V6: The entry point for the sport trim utilizes the VQ37VHR engine, churning out 330 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm. It loves high revs and provides smooth, linear acceleration.
- 5.6-Liter V8: For maximum thrust, the VK56VD V8 steps up output to 420 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque. This engine turns the heavy sedan into a rapid cruiser with a deep, authoritative exhaust note.
Rear-wheel drive comes standard, which remains the preferred layout for purists wanting optimal weight distribution. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was also available for drivers facing harsh winter climates, though it adds weight and slightly blunts the razor-edge steering feel.
Handling Dynamics and Sport Package Upgrades
Standard Q70 models lean toward a plush, floating highway ride. The Sport package changes the character entirely by tightening body control and upgrading critical hardware.
Up front, the package equips unique 20-inch split five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped in sticky 245/40R20 performance tires. It also swaps standard stoppers for upgraded sport brakes featuring larger ventilated discs and four-piston front calipers. The sport-tuned suspension uses firmer springs and specialized dampers that reduce body roll significantly during hard cornering. Steering weight is heavy and communicative, letting you place the car precisely on twisting two-lane roads.
Interior Craftsmanship and Cabin Layout
Infiniti built the cabin with warm materials, aiming for a distinct aesthetic rather than stark minimalism. The dashboard features multi-layered wood trim and silver dust accents, accompanied by an analog clock that anchors the center stack.
Front seats are heavily bolstered and heated, offering multi-way adjustments to lock you in during aggressive driving. Rear legroom is generous, particularly if you find a rare long-wheelbase Q70L variant, though standard models already provide ample space for adult passengers.
Technology features center around a 7-inch vehicle information display and an available Bose Studio Surround sound system. While infotainment software from 2015 feels dated compared to modern smartphone integration, physical buttons remain logically grouped and easy to use on the move.
Fuel Economy and Real-World Ownership
Running a performance sedan from this era requires budgeting for fuel and maintenance. According to the US EPA fuel economy guidelines, efficiency varies heavily by engine choice:
- V6 RWD: Rated at 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
- V8 RWD: Rated at 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
Real-world testing typically yields slightly lower figures if you exploit the upper rev ranges frequently. Reliability for the mechanical components is generally solid, as both the VQ V6 and VK V8 architectures have long histories in Nissan and Infiniti lineups. Routine maintenance items like brake replacements for the larger sport rotors will cost more than standard sedan parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What differentiates the 2015 Q70 Sport from standard models?
The sport trim includes a unique front fascia with a dark mesh grille, larger 20-inch wheels, upgraded sport brakes, a firmer suspension tuning, and sport-bolstered seating.
Is all-wheel drive available on the Sport trim?
Yes, Infiniti offered an AWD Sport variant for drivers needing all-weather traction, though rear-wheel drive remains the choice for traditional handling dynamics.
How reliable is the 2015 Infiniti Q70?
The vehicle earns strong marks for mechanical durability. Its engines and transmissions are robust, though you should check service records for regular oil changes and suspension component wear.
Does the Q70 have good safety ratings?
The vehicle received top marks in multiple crash evaluations and offers advanced safety tech like Blind Spot Warning and Lane Departure Prevention. You can review safety testing details directly via the NHTSA vehicle database.
