When we spot interesting spy videos shot near Stuttgart, either Mercedes or Porsche are involved. However, this next clip from WalkoART shows the Infiniti QX30, a compact crossover similar to the Volvo V40 Cross Country. How is that possible when Infiniti is a Japanese company? Have they moved their development center to Germany?
No. In fact, the QX30 is actually being developed by Mercedes-Benz engineers with Infiniti only providing certain parameters that have to be met. The model is going to be based on the MFA front-wheel drive platform, which would make this a sister car to the GLA-Class.
The QX30 prototype in this video is interesting for a number of reasons. First, we can see how it compares to the concept they have shown in Geneva this week. Some design features have been changed. For example, the exhaust tips are a normal square shape and the tailgate is relatively simple.
And in case you like to geek out over taillight designs, you can clearly see those of the QX30 in this clip. They have three large dots for the brakes and a sweeping C-curve for the indicators. The screenshot we made also clearly shows the independent rear suspension under the car.
Speaking of mechanical bits, we expect the QX30 to offer 4-cylinder turbo engines from the GLA, specifically the 2-liter petrol with 211 hp and the large diesel with 177 hp. Daimler and Nissan have an agreement to share these technologies and will even jointly own a North American factory that will produce the QX30 and all the MFA-based Mercs sold in the US, some time in 2016.
Until then, the only factory making the QX30 will be Sunderland, Nissan's home base responsible for the Juke and Leaf.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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