Infiniti Q30's distinct style sets it apart from the compact luxury competition (pictures)

Infiniti will launch the Q30 in the US early next summer to take on the compact luxury segment.

Like all Infiniti models, the Q30 features a double-arch front grille.

Flowing character lines run the length of the Infinti Q30's sheetmetal.

Sport versions of the Infiniti Q30 receive a gloss-black version of the double-arch grille.

Sport models of the Infiniti Q30 also get custom body-colored side sills.

A special rear bumper design is also a feature that sets the Sport model apart from regular Q30 models.

Sport versions of the Infiniti Q30 also feature a slightly lower ride height with the more performance-oriented suspension.

Dual rectangular exhaust outlets dress up the rear of the Infiniti Q30 Sport.

The 2017 Infiniti Q30 Sport rides on 19-inch aluminum wheels.

Infiniti doesn't calls the Q30 a hatcbhack. Instead it's an active compact.

The Infiniti Q30's rear hatch does provide a more flexible cargo area.

Infiniti says the rear cargo area provides 13 cubic feet of cargo space.

Sleek accent lights on the front of the Infiniti Q30.

The only engine available for US-bound models of the Q30 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 208 horsepower.

The Q30 Sport is the most athletic version with tighter suspension tuning.

Infiniti hopes the Q30 will provide customers an enticing gateway model into the Japanese luxury brand.

Goodyear run-flat tires come equipped on the Sport version of the Infiniti Q30.

Turn signals are integrated into the exterior mirrors of the Infiniti Q30.

Infiniti's signature C-pillar arcs on the Q30.

Dark chrome rectangular exhaust tips are special to the Infiniti Q30 Sport.

While we tested an all-wheel drive model of the Q30 in Portugal, US-bound Q30s will only be offered with front-wheel drive.

The turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides 208 horsepower in the Infiniti Q30.

The interior of the Infiniti Q30 has some Mercedes-Benz bits sprinkled in throughout.

A leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering wheel is an interior upgrade on the Sport versions of the Q30.

Familiar Mercedes steering wheel buttons and gauges inside of the Infiniti Q30.

Some gauge graphics on the screen between the gauges are lifted directly from Mercedes.

The Infiniti Q30's center stack features plenty of traditional hard buttons that are easy to work through.

The shift lever for the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in the Infiniti Q30.

A suede-like materials covers portions of the door, dash and center armrest inside of the Infiniti Q30 Sport.

Comfortable and supportive seats in the Infiniti Q30 Sport with integrated headrests.

Serviceable rear seat space in the Infiniti Q30.