The Infiniti Q30 2.2 CDI (170 Hp) DCT, produced between December 2015 and 2018, represents a unique offering within the compact luxury crossover segment. Based on the Mercedes-Benz W176 A-Class platform – a collaboration between Daimler and Renault-Nissan – the Q30 aimed to bring a more expressive and sporty design to the traditionally conservative entry-level luxury market, particularly in Europe and Asia. This specific variant, powered by a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), occupied a mid-range position in the Q30 lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with respectable performance. It was positioned below the higher-output petrol variants and above the base-level engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | Q30 |
| Generation | Q30 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CDI (170 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | December, 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1-5.3 l/100 km (46.1 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8-4.0 l/100 km (61.9 – 58.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 109-116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 241.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3400-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1400-3400 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.930 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1447-1485 kg (3190.09 – 3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535-573 kg (1179.47 – 1263.25 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4425 mm (174.21 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1573 mm (61.93 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30-0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17; 235/50 R18; 235/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Q30 2.2 CDI is the OM651.930, a 2.143-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine developed by Mercedes-Benz. This engine is a member of the OM651 family, known for its robust construction and efficiency. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) provides quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. This DCT, sourced from Getrag, offers both automatic and manual shifting modes, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Q30 2.2 CDI DCT delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 170 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque provide adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The DCT contributes to brisk gear changes, and the engine offers a broad torque band, making it easy to maintain speed on highways. Compared to the higher-output petrol versions, the diesel variant prioritizes fuel efficiency and low-end torque over outright speed. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears to reduce engine RPM at cruising speeds. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although some drivers have noted occasional hesitation at lower speeds. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Q30, the DCT offers convenience and ease of use, but may slightly diminish driver engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Q30 2.2 CDI DCT typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or leatherette, with higher trim levels offering genuine leather options. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The specific trim level (e.g., Premium, Sport) dictated the availability of these optional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Q30’s chassis is based on the Mercedes-Benz W176 A-Class platform, featuring an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The Q30’s suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti Q30 2.2 CDI DCT received mixed reviews from automotive critics. It was generally praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some critics found the driving experience to be somewhat bland and the engine to be a bit noisy compared to its competitors. Compared to other diesel-powered compact crossovers, such as the Audi Q3 TDI or BMW X1 xDrive20d, the Q30 offered a more affordable price point but lacked the same level of refinement and performance. Its fuel economy was competitive, but not class-leading.
Legacy
The OM651 diesel engine, used in the Q30 2.2 CDI, is known for its durability and reliability, provided it receives regular maintenance. The 7-speed DCT transmission is also generally considered to be reliable, although some owners have reported issues with software glitches. On the used car market, the Q30 2.2 CDI DCT represents a relatively affordable entry point into the compact luxury crossover segment. Its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride make it a practical choice for daily commuting, while its distinctive styling sets it apart from more conventional competitors. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily used for short trips.
