Geneva show: Infiniti QX30 SUV teased

INFINITI'S Mercedes-Benz-based QX30 compact SUV concept has been teased ahead of its international debut on March 3 at the Geneva motor show and it could eventually make its way to Australia.

The shadowy image only reveals a partially lit rear end, but styling of Infiniti's newest model is expected to be similar to the coupe-like Q30 hatchback revealed during the 2013 Frankfurt motor show.

According to Infiniti, the QX30 will combine the “sleek lines of a coupe with the rugged looks and commanding seating position of a crossover.” Speaking with GoAuto, Infiniti cars Australia general manger of corporate communications Peter Fadeyev confirmed the similarities between the two concept models and expressed interest in bringing the car to Australia.

“We don't have full details as yet, but it [QX30] would be closely related to the Q30 concept that was shown at the last Frankfurt motor show,” he said.

“If it were confirmed for production and made available to Australia, we would like to include it in our model line-up.”Infiniti is hoping to catch the attention of a new generation of buyer, with the Nissan-owned brand saying in a statement that the QX30 concept will suit buyers with a need for both inner-city and cross-country driving.

Both the QX30 SUV and Q30 hatchback are based on the Mercedes-Benz MFA platform, which also underpins the A-Class small car, CLA-Class sedan and GLA-Class small SUV.

Similar in size to Mercedes' GLA, the QX30 could potentially share some components as well as powertrains with its donor car. Engines in Benz's small-car range include a 100kW/300Nm 2.2-litre turbo-diesel, a 155kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit and it tops out with AMG's 265kW/450Nm 2.0-litre unit.

Expect the Infiniti QX30 to push the boundaries with the styling of the concept, with the car-maker promising a “distinctive approach to design that looks beyond the practicality and conformity expected of the segment.”