BUYERS looking for a posh yet quirky hatchback may be enticed by this fresh-looking machine.

The nicely-sculpted Q30 is a new car from Infiniti, the upmarket sub-brand of Nissan.

It offers brisk if unspectacular performance, but the emphasis is placed more keenly on refinement and comfort.

Make no mistake - this is a good-looking car which is distinctive from anything else in the market at the moment.

The vehicle is defined by its rugged and muscular lines. From some angles, it shares some visual traits with the Mercedes GLA - the vehicle on which it is based.

While would-be car owners seeking a widely-recognised premium brand may feel more comfortable opting for one of the German car-makers, there is no doubt that the Q30 has great rarity value.

Indeed, while out on Yorkshire's roads last week, the car received numerous puzzled looks from people keen to take a closer look at the badge on the back in an attempt to identify the make. In essence, it's an unusual but strong choice in the premium hatchback category.

In terms of space and practicality, the Q30 is a reasonably-sized car, with a roomy boot that offers 368 litres of space.

The cabin also feels spacious and there is plenty of room for both the driver and front seat passenger. Back seat passengers don't get quite so much room, but are hardly likely to feel cramped or uncomfortable.

The car's interior has a pleasant feel to it, thanks to a tasteful mixture of leathers and soft plastics, including a leather steering wheel and shift lever.

The Q30 comes in four main flavours, with the largest diesel variety tested here.

The 2.2 litre diesel version provides strong performance, and is capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds and a potential top speed of more than 130mph.

It feels perfectly quick enough for most situations and had more than enough grunt to make light work of the Bradford district's steeper hills.

This all-wheel drive car also provided tremendous grip and roadholding ability through the corners, instilling great confidence in its handling capabilities.

Its stability, especially when accelerating out of corners, was worthy of note.

On the motorway, it's a relaxing and quiet experience, helped by innovative sound insulation and active noise reduction.

The sportiest model, the 2.0-litre petrol ‘Sport’, produces 209bhp, while this diesel version achieves 190bhp.

That means the vehicle is in the region of 'warm hatch' territory, with an impressive turn of speed.

The Q30 is likely to appeal to motorists who desire comfort and style, but don't feel the need for the badge recognition of the big German brands.

THE LOWDOWN

Infiniti Q30 2.2d,

Price: From £31,180

Engine: 2.1-litre producing 190bhp and 350lb/ft

Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox driving all four wheels

Performance: Top speed 134mph, 0-62mph in 8.5sec

Fuel Economy: 57.6mpg and emissions of127g/km

Will's ratings

PERFORMANCE: 4

ECONOMY: 4

RIDE/HANDLING: 4

SPACE: 4

EQUIPMENT: 5

SECURITY: 4

VALUE: 4

OVERALL: 4