Infiniti Q30 review - Japanese premium compact takes on German rivals - Infiniti Q30 prices, specs and rivals

The Q30 range currently starts at £20,550. That figure gets you a basic SE model with the 1.6-litre petrol engine, a six-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive. Stepping up to Premium trim will cost you an additional £1050, while the 1.6t with DCT begins at £23,600.

Diesels kick off at £21,500 with the SE 1.5d. The cheapest 2.2d is £24,700, while Sport-badged 2-litre petrols begin at a lofty £30,380. Should you desire a Sport petrol with all-wheel drive, you’ll pay £31,935.

All models come well-equipped – SE includes stop-start, forward collision warning, LED DRLs, 18-inch alloy wheels, auto headlights, a 7-inch infotainment screen, and USB ports and iPod connectivity. For cruise control you’ll need a minimum of Premium trim though, likewise rain-sensing wipers, LED fog lamps and several other features.

Infiniti does bring a certain degree of unique appeal to the premium compact car sector, but it’s up against some tough competition. Importantly, it’s a more complete car than the best Lexus can offer – the CT 200h – but next to the A-class, BMW’s 1-series and the Audi A3 it will struggle harder.

The 1-series in particular is much more entertaining to drive and the A3 has a level of solidity that even the Infiniti can’t match. The A-class is the interesting comparison though, given how similar each car is under the skin: it neither rides nor shuts out engine noise quite as well, but it’s marginally the better of the two to drive and of course, offers some proper performance versions in the shape of the AMG models.