LOOKING for an executive motor that is a bit different? Something not German, good as they are, but with sleek styling, packed with standard equipment and an economical, engine?

Nissan, through its luxury brand Infiniti, believes its Q70 is now a serious option for those looking for something a little left field - especially now with a frugal 2.2-litre 168bhp diesel added to the engine line-up.

With near 60mpg and CO2 emissions of just 129g/km putting it in the 21 per cent Benefit in Kind tax bracket, it will prick the curiosity of many potential business users. To take on the German market leaders, that's where it will need some success.

For the purists and like many at this end of the market, it is rear-wheel drive.

It is also competitive in price terms, especially when you take into account the the standard kit, which includes powered windows and door mirrors, rear parking camera, climate control front and rear parking sensors, sat and heated, ventilated and powered leather seats.

It also attracted plenty of attention and that's good because many were still baffled by the name and there are also very few dealers in the UK.

That might be about to change with the addition of the 2.2-litre diesel engine, a power unit that proved remarkably economical for such a big car - even if a bit noisy.

It's styling is striking, all curves and bulges. It looks powerful and predatory with chrome a dominant feature around a distinctive deep, almost mouth-shaped grille, door handles and mirrors.

Also striking are the cat's eye-shaped headlamp clusters with daytime LEDs. The rear end also features neat light clusters and the imposing 20-inch alloy wheels give it a not-to-be-ignored presence.

The luxurious feel is continued on the inside with swish leather upholstery, a smart, curved dash which which almost mirrors the curves on the outside and logically placed dials, controls and switchgear.

The multi-function steering wheel is a nice size and features a satin/chrome trim, as does much of the dash, gear selector and door trims.

It is dominated by a large touchscreen which controls many of the major functions and analogue clock is a touch of class.

The Q70 is a big car, with room for five adults, but only four in real comfort. Headroom at the front is decent, if not quite so good at the rear.

On the road, the diesel engine, mated to a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox, delivers excellent performance in terms of economy. Performance is not too shabby either with the car hitting 60mph from a standing start in just under 9 seconds.

For those who prefer shifting gears themselves, the paddles behind the steering wheel give that option.

It is an admittedly large fuel tank, but hundreds of miles were covered with plenty of fuel to spare and this included high-speed motorway driving as well as tortuous winding country roads with plenty of gearchanges.

It feels comfortable in urban surroundings, but comes into its own on the motorway, where any diesel noise disappears and the excellent soundproofing keeps occupants is a quiet and calm environment. It eats up the miles with ease and the claimed, whopping, near-60 mpg, seemed not far from the mark. Boot space is excellent while a large central console and glovebox add extra stowage capacity.

Road manners are good with a softish ride making it comfortable for the occupants. There are four drive settings available on a rotary button, which change the dynamics of the drive, including a snow selection, which would be interesting with the rear wheel drive.

For those who want the full bling, the tech model tested here has radar, top sound system, lane departure and blind spot warning. Everthing you would want on a car approaching £40,000, but still missing on some of the market leaders at a similar price.