2015 Infiniti Q70 and Q70L Premiere in New York

The Infiniti Q70 (née Infiniti M) may have gotten a new name last year, but this midsize luxury sport sedan hadn’t actually received any major changes since its debut in 2011. For 2015, the Infiniti Q70 gets a facelift and also gains a new long-wheelbase model called the Q70L.

The Q70’s facelift looks to bring this sedan in line with the new Infiniti styling direction introduced on the 2014 Infiniti Q50. As such, the updated Q70 features many of the same styling elements as the Q50, such as the LED accent piping on the swept-back head- and taillights, and the pinched-in front grille that makes for a more cohesive, modern look. The Q70L hides its extra length well, with a profile that maintains the balanced proportions of the standard car despite its longer rear doors.

The impetus behind this new extended model is most likely Infiniti’s entry into the Chinese market, where long-wheelbase cars are in high demand for those who prefer to be driven. The Q70L features a 5.9-inch longer wheelbase than the standard car, making for a significantly more spacious rear seat. Otherwise, the Q70L is identical to the standard car, with powertrain choices consisting of the same 3.7-liter V-6 and 5.6-liter V-8 offered on the normal-length model.

These engines are essentially carryover from last year’s Q70, as is the car’s 3.5-liter V-6-based hybrid system which is only available on the standard-wheelbase Q70. The 3.7L models produce 330 hp, the 5.6L models make 420 hp (414 hp in the Q70L), and the Q70 Hybrid sits between the two with its 360 hp net system power rating. All-wheel drive is an option for both 3.7L and 5.6L models for both the Q70 and the Q70L, and a seven-speed automatic is the standard transmission for all models.

The 2015 Infiniti Q70 and Q70L also receive a few new technology features that recently debuted on the smaller Infiniti Q50 sedan. The first of these is predictive forward collision warning, which can detect the speed and distance of not only the car directly ahead, but also the vehicle ahead of that. The 360-degree AroundView Monitor is also newly available, as is backup collision intervention and forward emergency braking.

The inside receives fewer changes, with a few minor trim updates and upgraded materials. Long-wheelbase Q70L models do receive features meant to enhance the rear-seat experience though, including auto door closing, heated seats, reading lights, and a power outlet. Infiniti also claims that the new interior is quieter than before thanks to increased use noise insulation materials.

Infiniti has not yet released pricing details on the 2015 Infiniti Q70 and Q70L, but expect the long-wheelbase model to command a price premium of a few thousand dollars over the standard Q70.