Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium Sport, a vehicle that attempts to blend the lines between a hatchback, a crossover, and a luxury car. Let's get into what makes this car tick, its strengths, and maybe a few areas where it could have been better. Buckle up!

Exterior Styling: A Head-Turner?

When it comes to the exterior styling of the 2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium Sport, opinions tend to be sharply divided. Some people absolutely love the distinctive, sculpted lines, while others find it a bit too busy. Personally, I think it's a bold design that stands out in a crowd, which is a plus in a market saturated with similar-looking crossovers. The QX30 boasts a low-slung profile, giving it a sporty stance, enhanced by the Premium Sport trim's unique design cues. These include sportier front and rear fascias, gloss black exterior trim, and unique 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The double-arch grille, a signature Infiniti design element, is prominently featured, and the sharply angled headlights add to its aggressive look. The body lines flow dramatically from front to rear, creating a sense of motion even when the car is standing still. However, the sloping roofline, while stylish, does compromise rear headroom somewhat. So, while the exterior is undoubtedly eye-catching and different, it might not be to everyone's taste. But if you're looking for a crossover that makes a statement, the QX30 definitely delivers. I mean, you've gotta appreciate a car that tries to be different, right? The QX30's design definitely makes it memorable. The overall aesthetic leans towards a more coupe-like crossover, sacrificing some practicality for style. This is a choice that Infiniti made deliberately, targeting buyers who prioritize looks and driving experience over outright utility. And in that regard, the QX30 succeeds admirably. It’s a car that you'll likely find yourself glancing back at after you park, admiring its unique form. So, whether you love it or hate it, you can't deny that the QX30 has a distinct personality that sets it apart from its competitors. It’s a bold move by Infiniti, and one that helps the QX30 carve out its own niche in the crowded crossover market. The Premium Sport trim amplifies this distinctiveness, adding sporty touches that enhance its visual appeal and make it even more of a head-turner. Ultimately, the exterior design is a subjective matter, but the QX30's bold and distinctive styling is undoubtedly one of its defining characteristics.

Interior Comfort and Features

Let's hop inside and talk about the interior comfort and features of the 2017 QX30 Premium Sport. The first thing you'll notice is that the interior design is a step up from the mainstream. Infiniti has used high-quality materials throughout the cabin, giving it a premium feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, especially the sport seats in the Premium Sport trim, which offer enhanced bolstering. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with a user-friendly infotainment system integrated into the center console. Speaking of the infotainment system, it features a 7-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and Infiniti's InTouch services. It's not the most advanced system on the market, but it's easy to use and provides all the essential features you'd expect. The Premium Sport trim also includes features like a Bose premium audio system, which sounds fantastic, and a panoramic sunroof, which lets in plenty of natural light. Now, let's talk about space. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, even for taller drivers. However, the rear seats are a bit cramped, especially for adults. The sloping roofline cuts into headroom, and legroom is limited. So, if you frequently carry passengers in the back, you might want to consider a different vehicle. Cargo space is also on the smaller side, with only 19.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This is enough for a few suitcases or grocery bags, but it's not as much as you'd find in some other crossovers. Overall, the interior of the 2017 QX30 Premium Sport is a nice place to be. The materials are high-quality, the seats are comfortable, and the features are plentiful. However, the limited rear seat space and cargo capacity might be a deal-breaker for some buyers. But if you prioritize style and luxury over practicality, the QX30's interior is sure to impress. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, from the contrast stitching on the seats to the soft-touch materials on the dashboard. It's a well-appointed and inviting space that makes you feel like you're driving something special. And that's what luxury is all about, right? Feeling like you're getting something more than just basic transportation. The QX30's interior definitely delivers on that promise, creating a refined and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers.

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

Alright, let’s get to the fun part: performance and handling. The 2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium Sport is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This combination provides brisk acceleration, making the QX30 feel quick and responsive. The engine is smooth and refined, and the transmission shifts quickly and seamlessly. The Premium Sport trim features a sport-tuned suspension, which gives the QX30 sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. The ride is firm but not harsh, striking a good balance between comfort and sportiness. In corners, the QX30 feels planted and confident, with minimal body roll. It's a fun car to drive on twisty roads, and it's also comfortable enough for long highway trips. However, the QX30 is not a true sports car. It's more of a sporty crossover that prioritizes comfort and refinement over outright performance. The engine, while powerful enough, lacks the thrilling sound and responsiveness of a more performance-oriented engine. And the transmission, while smooth, can sometimes hesitate to downshift when you need quick acceleration. But overall, the QX30's performance is more than adequate for most drivers. It's quick, responsive, and fun to drive, making it a great choice for those who want a sporty crossover that's also comfortable and practical. The sport-tuned suspension in the Premium Sport trim adds an extra layer of engagement, making it feel more connected to the road. The QX30 is a car that you'll enjoy driving every day, whether you're commuting to work or taking a weekend road trip. It's a versatile and capable vehicle that offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and style. And that's what makes it such an appealing choice in the crowded crossover market. The QX30's driving dynamics are definitely a highlight, making it stand out from its competitors. It's a car that's designed to be enjoyed, and it delivers on that promise with its responsive engine, sharp handling, and comfortable ride.

Technology and Safety Features

Now, let's discuss the technology and safety features included in the 2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium Sport. Infiniti packed this car with a decent array of tech to keep you connected and safe on the road. Standard tech features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Premium Sport trim adds goodies like a Bose premium audio system, which, as I mentioned before, sounds awesome, and a panoramic sunroof to let in lots of light. On the safety front, the QX30 comes standard with antilock brakes, stability control, and a full suite of airbags. Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. These features can help to prevent accidents and make driving safer and more relaxing. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, although it's not the most modern or advanced system on the market. The touchscreen is responsive, and the menus are logically laid out. However, the graphics look a bit dated, and the system lacks some of the features you'd find in newer cars, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Bose audio system is a standout feature, providing clear and powerful sound. It's a great addition for music lovers and makes long drives more enjoyable. The panoramic sunroof is another nice touch, creating a more open and airy feel in the cabin. Overall, the 2017 QX30 Premium Sport offers a good selection of technology and safety features. While the infotainment system could use an update, the car has all the essentials, plus some nice extras like the Bose audio system and panoramic sunroof. And the available safety features provide an extra layer of protection for you and your passengers. In today's world, technology is a crucial aspect of any car, and the QX30 delivers a satisfactory experience in this regard. It may not be cutting-edge, but it offers a solid and reliable set of features that enhance the driving experience and keep you connected on the go. The safety features are particularly important, providing peace of mind and helping to prevent accidents. So, while it may not be the most technologically advanced car on the market, the QX30 offers a well-rounded package of technology and safety features that make it a compelling choice in its class.

Potential Drawbacks

No car is perfect, so let's talk about the potential drawbacks of the 2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium Sport. One of the biggest complaints is the limited rear seat space and cargo capacity. As I mentioned earlier, the sloping roofline cuts into headroom in the back, and legroom is also limited. This can make the rear seats uncomfortable for adults, especially on long trips. Cargo space is also on the small side, with only 19.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This is less than you'd find in many other crossovers. Another potential drawback is the infotainment system. While it's easy to use, it's not the most modern or advanced system on the market. The graphics look dated, and it lacks some of the features you'd find in newer cars, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some drivers have also complained about the visibility. The thick rear pillars and small rear window can make it difficult to see out of the back. This can make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces challenging. Finally, the QX30's price can be a bit high compared to some of its competitors. While it offers a lot of features and a premium feel, it's not the most affordable option in the crossover market. Overall, the 2017 QX30 Premium Sport has some potential drawbacks that buyers should be aware of. The limited rear seat space and cargo capacity, the outdated infotainment system, the poor visibility, and the high price can be deal-breakers for some. However, if you're willing to overlook these flaws, the QX30 offers a lot to like, including its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. It's a car that's designed to be enjoyed, and it delivers on that promise with its unique blend of luxury and sportiness. The QX30 is not for everyone, but it's a great choice for those who prioritize style and driving experience over practicality and affordability. It's a car that stands out from the crowd and offers a different kind of crossover experience. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. It's important to consider your needs and priorities when choosing a car, and the QX30 may or may not be the right fit for you. But if you're looking for a stylish and sporty crossover that's also comfortable and luxurious, it's definitely worth a look.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium Sport? It's a stylish and sporty crossover that offers a unique blend of luxury and performance. It's not perfect, but it has a lot to offer, including a comfortable interior, an engaging driving experience, and a distinctive design. If you're looking for a crossover that stands out from the crowd and offers a different kind of driving experience, the QX30 is definitely worth considering. However, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. The limited rear seat space and cargo capacity, the outdated infotainment system, the poor visibility, and the high price can be deal-breakers for some. But if you're willing to overlook these flaws, the QX30 offers a lot to like. It's a car that's designed to be enjoyed, and it delivers on that promise with its unique blend of luxury and sportiness. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2017 Infiniti QX30 Premium Sport comes down to personal preference. If you value style, performance, and luxury over practicality and affordability, it's a great choice. But if you need a crossover with plenty of space and the latest technology, you might want to consider a different vehicle. I hope this review has been helpful in your car-buying journey. Good luck, and happy driving! Remember, the most important thing is to find a car that you love and that meets your needs. So take your time, do your research, and choose wisely. And don't forget to have fun! Driving should be an enjoyable experience, and the QX30 is certainly capable of delivering that. So go out there and test drive a few cars, see what you like, and make the best decision for you. You got this!