INFINITI is the stand-alone luxury brand of Nissan, pitched against premium models from BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Lexus, writes NICK FLETCHER

The latest Infiniti is the Q60, a four-seat two-door coupe with stand-out styling that turns heads and which delivers fast refined performance. It is also generously equipped – the kit list on my test model runs to 82 individual features!

Q60 prices start at £33,990 with flagship versions up to £46,690. My test model was a mid-range Premium Tech version with a 2.0-litre petrol engine and seven-speed auto gearbox, costing £37,690. With 208 hp on tap, the 0-60mph time is just 7.6 seconds and top speed 146mph. It is not as 'green' as some rivals, but otherwise performs brilliantly.

Progress is smooth and responsive, with a suitably sporty but not over-intrusive note from the twin exhausts. The auto box is seamless, the steering precise and intuitive, the ride quality understandably on the firm side but overall still very comfortable. I found the Q60 a beautiful, effortless drive.

It delivers on other fronts too. The visual styling is elegant, with a very distinctive look, and the potent front-end design makes German rivals appear rather muted.

In the cabin the good impression continues with use of quality trim materials including semi-aniline leather seats and soft-touch plastics. The dashboard is well laid out, with twin dials behind the steering wheel and twin screens on the centre console, one for infotainment and sat-nav, the other for driver-information and connectivity features.

Powered adjustable seats and steering wheel make it easy to get a comfortable driving position, and the front seats are very supportive. Access to the rear is tight but once inside, the back seats are surprisingly spacious and with plenty of legroom, though tall passengers will find headroom slightly compromised. The boot is a large boxy shape, offering 352 litres of space and the rear seat folds down to accommodate longer items.

Highlights from the 82-item equipment list include 19-inch alloys with run-flat tyres, BOSE audio system, intelligent cruise control, forward collison warning and emergency braking, blind-spot intervention system and all-round monitor with moving object detection and parking guidance. You also get LED lights, front and rear sensors, dark maple-wood interior trim and memory-linked drivers seat, steering wheel and door mirrors.

The Q60 is more exclusive than most rivals, generously equipped, with great driving dynamics and eye-catching visual cachet. It is a formidable contender in this niche luxury performance sector.

On Spec

Model: Infiniti Q60 Premium Tech

Engine: 2.0-litre petrol

Transmission: Seven-speed auto

Performance: 0-60mph 7.3 seconds, top speed 146mph

Economy: 41.5mpg combined

Emissions: 156g/km

Price: range from £34,300/test model £37,690