It is heavily based on the Q30 hatchback with modifications mainly in its ride height in order for it to be marketed as a crossover.

[7] Based on the Infiniti Q30, the QX30 includes redesigned front and rear bumpers, grained side sills, as well as bodywork finished with satin chrome plated inserts with metallic finish along with an increased ride height.

[11] US and Canada models went on sale in the middle of 2016 as model year 2017 vehicles, with a 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder engine with 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, followed by Mexico and Latin America in the second half of 2016.

Early models included 2.2d AWD with 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

As part of QX30 launch in the United Kingdom, a QX30 with 48,000 copper tacks adhered to half of the QX30's bodywork was unveiled in the 2016 London Art Fair at the Islington Business Center.