The Best Years For Infiniti Q70h And Some To Avoid

The Infiniti Q70h, the hybrid variant of the Q70 sedan, offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency. Choosing the right model year can significantly impact your ownership experience. This guide will delve into the best and worst years for the Q70h, providing a detailed analysis to help you make an informed decision.

The Q70h presents a unique proposition in the luxury hybrid market. Understanding the nuances of each model year, potential problem areas, and overall reliability is crucial for prospective buyers. This article aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to select a Q70h that meets your needs and avoids potential pitfalls.

Detailed Explanations

2014: Initial Release, Hybrid Powertrain

The 2014 Infiniti Q70h marked the introduction of the hybrid powertrain to the Q70 lineup. It combined a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, offering a combined output of 360 horsepower. While the hybrid system provided impressive fuel economy for its class, early models sometimes suffered from minor "teething" problems common in first-year productions. The infotainment system was also noted for its lag and less-than-intuitive interface.

2015: Minor Interior Updates

The 2015 Q70h received subtle interior updates, primarily focused on improving the overall fit and finish. However, the fundamental mechanics and technology remained largely unchanged. The infotainment system's sluggish performance persisted, and concerns regarding the long-term reliability of the hybrid battery began to surface, particularly in the earliest production models.

2016: Improved Suspension Tuning

Infiniti addressed some handling concerns in the 2016 Q70h by implementing improved suspension tuning. This resulted in a slightly more refined driving experience. However, the core issues from previous years, such as the infotainment system's responsiveness and long-term battery reliability, were not significantly addressed. The overall reliability data remained relatively consistent with the 2014 and 2015 models.

2017: Enhanced Safety Features

The 2017 Q70h saw the introduction of enhanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, making it a safer option compared to earlier model years. While these safety upgrades were welcomed, the underlying concerns regarding infotainment performance and hybrid battery longevity remained relevant. Consumer Reports data indicated a slight improvement in reliability, but it wasn't a drastic change.

2018: No Major Changes

The 2018 Q70h received no significant changes from the previous year. This means the driving experience, technology, and overall reliability were largely the same as the 2017 model. The continued use of an aging hybrid system raised concerns about potential maintenance costs and the availability of replacement parts in the future. Reliability data remained largely consistent with previous years.

2019: Final Production Year, Limited Availability

The 2019 Q70h marked the end of the model's production run. While there were no significant updates, it's important to consider that 2019 models will likely have higher mileage and potential wear compared to earlier model years. Furthermore, as the final production year, parts availability could become a concern in the long term.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Which Q70h year is the most reliable? Based on available data, the 2017 and 2018 model years show a slight improvement in reliability compared to the earlier models, but the differences are not substantial. Consider a thorough inspection and maintenance history regardless of the year.

• Are there common issues with the Q70h hybrid battery? Yes, premature battery degradation is a potential concern, especially in earlier model years (2014-2016). A pre-purchase inspection should include a battery health check.

• Is the infotainment system in the Q70h outdated? Yes, the infotainment system is generally considered outdated, particularly in the earlier model years. It can be slow and less intuitive than modern systems.

• How is the fuel economy in the Q70h? The Q70h offers good fuel economy for its class, typically around 29 MPG combined. This is one of the primary benefits of choosing the hybrid model.

• Is it expensive to maintain a Q70h? Maintenance costs can be higher than non-hybrid vehicles due to the complexity of the hybrid system. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help mitigate these costs.

• Are Q70h parts readily available? While parts are currently available, availability may become more of a concern in the future, especially for the 2019 model year as it was the last year of production.

• What should I look for when buying a used Q70h? Thoroughly inspect the vehicle's maintenance history, have the hybrid battery checked by a qualified technician, and test all electronic systems. Pay close attention to any warning lights or unusual noises.

• Is the Q70h comfortable to drive? Yes, the Q70h is known for its comfortable ride and luxurious interior. The improved suspension tuning in later models further enhances the driving experience.

• Does the Q70h hold its value well? Like most luxury sedans, the Q70h depreciates over time. However, well-maintained models can hold their value relatively well, especially in areas with strong demand for fuel-efficient vehicles.

• Is the Q70h a good car for long road trips? Yes, the Q70h is a comfortable and capable car for long road trips, offering a smooth ride, ample space, and decent fuel economy.

Conclusion

Choosing the best year for an Infiniti Q70h requires careful consideration of potential issues and individual needs. While the 2017 and 2018 models offer slight improvements in reliability and enhanced safety features, a thorough inspection and maintenance history are crucial regardless of the model year. Weigh the pros and cons of each year, prioritize your needs, and consider a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you select a Q70h that will provide a reliable and enjoyable ownership experience.