Detroit show: Infiniti takes on 4 Series

The automaker also bundles its newest version of the Infiniti InTuition infotainment system with a faster processor and more functions – the 2017 Infiniti Q60 Coupe will reach dealerships later on this year. Like the Q50, the entry-level Q60 will come with the automaker’s 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 208 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of peak twist at just 1,500 revs.

Four-hundred horsepower is a significant number, and that’s the top end of the Q60’s power from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine.

The current Q60 is priced at bang-on $70K, but even if the powered-up new-generation coupe stretches beyond $80K as is expected, then it will still likely have rivals covered for performance.

You could describe the Q60 as the coupe version of the Q50 sedan.

Performance is amped up over the outgoing Q60, which makes 330 hp from its VQ V-6, a 15-time Wards 10 Best Engines victor.

These outputs have been achieved while delivering efficiency: 23 mpg (U.S.) and 154 g/km Carbon dioxide (estimated) for the 300 horsepower version, and 22 mpg (U.S.) and 206 g/km Carbon dioxide (estimated) for the 400 horsepower model – with the latter offering one of the best power-to-efficiency ratios in the premium sports coupe class.

Dynamic Digital Suspension is available as an option (standard on the Q60 Sport) and brings electronically adjustable dampers, and 19-inch alloys are standard.

Returning to the venue where it first appeared as a striking concept in 2015, the new Q60 is revealed today in its final production form ahead of an Australian debut set to occur later this year.

The model has been previewed a year ago during the Geneva Motor Show and now the premium coupe has arrived sporting a dynamic yet stylish design with the double-arch front grille and the unique C pillars shaped like a crescent.

The auto has a drag coefficient of 0.28 thanks to its sleek body and the Active Grille Shutter, available on all Q60 models, which remains closed most of the time and opens when a “greater performance is required”. As well, all engines share a seven-speed automatic transmission; no manual is on offer. The all-wheel drive system is an on-demand type that typically sends 100 per cent of grunt to the back unless slip is detected.

The Hong Kong-based carmaker said it has direct adaptive steering, which is created to enhance steering feel and feedback, and a drive mode selector allows drivers to personalize the steering responses to suit preferences. Where 4-cylinder Q60s rely on speed-sensitive electro-hydraulic power steering all V6 models feature Rack Electronic Power Steering that automatically varies effort levels to compensate for changes in yaw angles when cornering.

To aid the handling, adaptive suspension and steering systems are available.

Also shared with the Q50 is the suspension system in the new Q60.

Active and passive safety technologies include Lane Departure Prevention, Backup Collision Intervention, Blind Spot Intervention, Intelligent Cruise Control with Distance Control Assist, Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection and Around View Monitor.

The Infiniti Q60 will go on sale in the summer of 2016.