INFINITI'S Q70 has had a modest makeover for 2015 with exterior enhancements that give it a sleeker and more purposeful profile.

It's still characterised by those distinctive muscular bulges, which I like but might not be to all tastes, but some of the left field characteristics seem to have been toned down to make it just a little bit more mainstream.

In truth the changes are fairly minimal but they include new LED headlights, a large chrome-trimmed mesh grille, a chrome strip across the bootlid and chrome door handles.

Certainly a chrome theme of sorts emerging.

A few tweaks on the interior make the Q70 seem even more opulent and luxurious than before, though it was never lacking in this regard.

The big change is under the bonnet, with a new Mercedes-sourced 2.2-litre diesel unit replacing the larger 3.0-litre one.

It now sits alongside a 3.7-litre V6 petrol and a 3.5-litre V6 hybrid.

The new engine is clearly an effort to make the Q70 a lot more fleet-friendly.

It's a decent unit, as one might expect having been developed by Mercedes, and although output of 168bhp sounds lacklustre compared to the old diesel's 238bhp it does not disappoint.

Mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox it pulls smoothly and swiftly with a noticeable degree of refinement.

Yes, it's slightly slower than the old 3.0-litre, taking about an extra two seconds to complete the 0-62mph sprint but it manages an extra 20mpg on the combined cycle and emits significantly less CO2 - 70g/km to be precise.

There are two main trim levels - Premium and Sport - while Premium Tech and Sport Tech add extra safety kit and equipment.

Sat in the driver's seat of the Q70 you are confronted by an array of switches and dials that ooze sophistication and given there's so many of them they are exceptionally easy to navigate your way around and use.

All models come well-equipped - an essential feature given they're up against premium brands like Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes.

Considering what you get it's certainly competitively priced.

Quality is also to the fore throughout.

Build quality is solid and sturdy and the roomy cabin has a distinct country club on wheels character.

It also features a nice analogue clock which gives a welcome traditional feel in amongst all the modernity.

The Q70 is also an easy car to drive.

It's hard to imagine it being anything other than an automatic, given the concentration there is on comfort throughout and the seven-speed automatic gearbox is a smooth and slick shifter.

As far as driving dynamics are concerned the Q70 certainly delivers - being a capable, agile and spirited performer that doesn't disappoint.

There are occasions when one is reminded of the fact it is quite a big and heavy saloon, but given its overall bulk and size it does the job well.

It is without doubt an exceptionally comfortable car to travel in - its glide-like ride quality would even give a large Mercedes a run for its money - and is great on a long journey.