Why we're driving it:

Infiniti has added a high-riding companion to its Q30 small car. Based on the Mercedes-Benz GLA compact crossover, Infiniti promises "a balance of coupe sportiness, crossover utility and 5-door versatility" in this new QX30.

What we like:

This is something different. Infiniti isn't Audi, BMW, Lexus or Mercedes, it's something else entirely, representing the luxury arm of the Renault Nissan Alliance.

It has its own swoopy flavour of styling and a different approach to interior detailing, including excellent "zero gravity" seats intended to offer more support than conventional chairs.

It drives decently, with plenty of punch (and traction) on offer from its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive layout. The QX30's elevated ride height and all-wheel-drive system offer a decent level of practicality, and its suspension tune is a little more forgiving than the original Mercedes-Benz GLA. 

Speaking of which, it might be good that this isn't really an Infiniti as we haven't been overly impressed by the brand's range to date. All the important parts of the QX30 are made by Mercedes-Benz, which is exactly what owners will be telling friends for some time to come.

What we dislike:

​This isn't really an Infiniti. The cabin looks and feels like a Mercedes, and you'll find plenty of three-pointed stars under the bonnet that betray its roots. If you're going to drive a 'Benz, you might as well buy a 'Benz.

Because part of the appeal of a luxury car surrounds branding and exclusivity - everyone can recognise a Mercedes on the road, whereas Infiniti is an unknown in Australia. It also looks like a Mazda3 to my eyes, with Infiniti's curvy styling translating somewhat awkwardly to this high-riding hatch.

But the biggest problem here is a lack of equipment.

There's precious little to justify paying almost $50,000 for a hatchback – no electric seat adjustment, no climate control, no leather trim and not even a reversing camera.

Would you buy one?

No. While the Infiniti is ok to look at, interesting to drive and decently executed, it lacks the authenticity I look for in a prestige product. And in 2017, I could never pay $48,900 for a luxury hatch that doesn't even have a reversing camera.

Infiniti QX30 GT pricing and specifications:

Price: $48,900 plus on-road costs

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol

Power: 155kW at 5500rpm

Torque: 350Nm at 1200-4400rpm

Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch auto, all-wheel-drive

Fuel use: 6.9L/100km

• For all the latest info, visit our Infiniti showroom