S Design joins Infiniti QX70 range

INFINTI has introduced a special “stealthy” S Design option to its QX70 luxury SUV range, bringing a series of dark exterior and cabin styling embellishments from $85,900 driveaway until September 30.

Available as either V6 petrol or V6 diesel, the S Design is based on the high-spec QX70 S Premium and shares all of the donor model's equipment. With diesel power the S Design costs $87,900 driveaway.

The limited-edition prices effectively reduce the price of the equipment-rich variants, which cost the same plus on-road costs when in regular S Premium trim. From October 1, prices of the S Design will jump up to $90,174 and $92,174 driveaway for the petrol and diesel respectively.

At the front end, S Design versions get black and dark chrome grille, airvents, side vents and fog-light housings, while the tail is treated to dark chrome tailgate trims.

Black roof rails, mirror caps complete the look along with a set of 21-inch black alloy wheels that replace the silver versions of the same size.

On the inside, the QX70 S Design upholstery features purple stitching on the leather steering wheel and gear selector and, when the Graphite seat leather option is selected, the contrasting stitching continues throughout the cabin.

Specification in other areas is unchanged over the standard QX70 S Premium.

When fitted with the naturally aspirated 3.7-litre petrol engine the S Design produces 235kW, while 3.0-litre diesel versions kicks out 175kW of power and a hearty 550Nm of torque.

Both engines drive all four wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission with “intelligent torque split” technology for enhanced driving performance on and off road.

Standard equipment includes forward collision warning, brake assistance, around view monitor and lane-departure warning with assistance.

In a statement, Infiniti Cars Australia managing director Jean-Philippe Roux said the new addition would be closely followed by more fresh products for the Japanese luxury brand including a larger QX80 SUV, Q30 compact SUV and Q60 coupe.

“Expanding the Infiniti vehicle range is a key part of our plan for sustainable growth in Australia,” he said. “These next four new models to join our range will see the Infiniti brand cover a much broader range of the local premium market, and we have even more all-new models planned.”