Yes, it's classy. Smooth, too, and it provides effortless acceleration with low noise levels and decent economy.

But will Infiniti's Q70 manage to tempt customers away from the Jaguar XF, BMW 5 Series or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Infiniti's first task is to get the brand known, and then offer a driving experience that can match that of its established rivals. The Q70 plays a big part in the strategy.

On the road tit is ultra smooth and refined, making it great choice for covering long distances effortlessly.

And both S and S Premium models come with the 4-Wheel Active Steer system and sports suspension, which results in sharp and composed handling.

The Q70’s three-litre diesel engine pulls smoothly and strongly, although it can’t match the fuel economy or CO2 emissions of its key rivals

The engine is responsive, quiet when you want, but vocal and meaty if you rev it more or fancy a play with the gearshift paddles. For the most part, there's just a reassuring hum as it gobbles up the miles.

Inside the cabin, you find only top-notch materials and plenty of techno comforts.

The front seats and steering wheel are electrically adjustable in all versions, so it’s easy to get comfortable.

Niggles about lighting

There’s plenty of room for four adults but, like most rivals, it has a wide transmission tunnel that makes life uncomfortable for a central rear passenger.

Even the entry-level GT models come with keyless entry, a reversing camera, dual-zone climate control and front seats that are heated and ventilated, while S spec adds sporty touches such as the gearshift paddles, four-wheel steering and sports suspension. You can also specify Premium versions of both with satellite-navigation, a BOSE stereo and adaptive cruise control.

There's a three-way diesel, petrol or hybrid engine choice, all utilising a high-performance V6 engine, but it is the 3.0-litre diesel that should find most new homes.

Athletic looks - in particular the bulging wings - and the seductive cabin make for a bold and confident statement from a company keen to offer that little bit more and something slightly different. The Q70 will be measured in every department against the opposition.

New features joining familiar Infiniti innovations, such as Connectiviti and Scratch Shield paint, include Active Noise Control and a state-of-the-art climate control system called Forest Air. The world’s first side collision avoidance system, Blind Spot Intervention is the latest technology to be incorporated into Infiniti’s Dynamic Safety Shield, standard on all Premium models.

The S models not only introduce the 4-Wheel Active Steering hat is at the heart of all of Infiniti’s most dynamic cars but also sports suspension, 20-inch double-spoke alloy wheels, opposed-calliper brakes and gearshift paddles crafted out of solid magnesium. There are leather-faced sports seats (also heated and ventilated), aluminium pedals and black lacquer trim.

Visually, S models are identified by their Sport design front bumper and black housings for the standard AFS cornering headlights.

At a glance

Infiniti Q70 3.0d V6 S

Price: £42,860

Engine: 3.0-litre V6 diesel developing 238PS

Transmission: Seven-speed automatic

Performance: 0 to 62mph in 6.9 seconds; top speed 155mph

Economy: 37.7mpg combined

CO2 emissions: 199g/km