2016 Infiniti QX70 3.0L Diesel · SF16 PCG

The 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine in the QX70 returns a combined fuel economy of roughly 30-35 mpg in real-world driving, though towing or motorway work will reduce this. Annual fuel costs for a typical 8,000-mile year would be around £1,800-£2,100 at current diesel prices. Road tax sits in a higher band due to the engine size and CO2 output, so expect around £300-£330 per year for VED, plus any supplement if previously listed above the £40,000 threshold.

Insurance for the QX70 places it in a relatively high group (around group 45), reflecting its performance, value, and limited parts availability. A typical 40-year-old buyer with a clean licence might pay £700-£1,000 annually, though this varies significantly by postcode and driving history. Servicing is best handled by a specialist familiar with Infiniti or Nissan platforms (the QX70 shares underpinnings with the FX), and an annual service including oil, filters, and checks typically costs £250-£400. With the recent brake pipe work required and corrosion advisories, allow an immediate budget of £500-£1,000 for remedial work post-purchase.

Begin with a careful visual inspection of all four brake pipes, particularly along their length where they run beneath the vehicle and near the wheel arches. The April 2026 failure listed both nearside and offside front brake pipes as excessively corroded, and a follow-up pass on 6 May means remedial work was done — confirm the receipt and verify the quality of repair, as inferior pipework can fail again quickly. Also test the parking brake on an incline to confirm it holds firmly, given the 'only just met' advisory.

Inspect the rear suspension arms on both sides for visible corrosion, as these were flagged on the most recent test. A vehicle with a MOT history showing corrosion advisories on structural-related components should be placed on a ramp so that all underbody seams, jacking points, and the exhaust mounting area can be examined. Pay particular attention to the exhaust system itself, which was noted as corroded in 2023 and may now need replacement. The engine MIL light being inoperative during the 2023 failure is also worth investigating, as recurring emissions or sensor faults can be costly to diagnose.

Finally, check the tyres carefully for age-related cracking, as three tyres were flagged for perishing on the most recent MOT. Tyres older than five years should be replaced regardless of tread depth. Also verify the operation of all electrical systems, including the infotainment screen, reversing camera, and satellite navigation, as these are complex units that can be expensive to repair on low-volume models. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with Infiniti or Nissan premium models is highly recommended given the age, mileage, and MOT findings.