Talking further on Nissan’s luxury brand Infiniti – more specifically the small premium Q30 hatch and higher-riding QX30 SUV – both sitting on Mercedes-Benz A-Class and GLA-Class platforms powered by 2.0-litre 155kW turbo petrol engines with seven-speed dual-clutch automatics . Both loaded with safety and convenience equipment. But from my perspective it’s the styling and presence of these compact premium Infiniti’s that sets them apart – both have superb lines, are classy and different. Performance strong with good willing torque, nice drivers with well sorted electric steering with good feedback, ride quality at times a little harsh on 19-inch wheels with run-flat 45-series tyres. Not helped by both models relatively short wheelbase. As I said earlier, it’s a shame Nissan does not do more to promote its luxury Infiniti brand. Much to do with numbers and just 11 Q30 and QX30’s were sold in the first two months. Both of these compact premium models are very individual, freshened for 2019 with less variants, more equipment and sharper drive-away pricing – the entry Infiniti Q30 Pure hatch now $44,900, the entry QX30 Sport AWD SUV, $56,900. As I said earlier, the fact they sit on Mercedes-Benz platforms limits their sales as many buyers want the kudos and prestige of the Mercedes-Benz three pointed star. Only on Wednesday Nissan UK announced it was pulling its Infiniti premium brand out of Europe and ending production of the Q30 and QX 30 at its Sunderland Plant from July – this will sadly mean the end of both models in Australia and the rest of the world. I’m David Berthon

Download this podcast here