TheCarConnection.com's resident enthusiasts studied the latest reviews on the new 2008 Infiniti EX35 to write this comprehensive review. Editors at TheCarConnection.com also drove the EX35 to offer you a definitive opinion on this small, elegant, and not-inexpensive crossover. This review also compares the 2008 Infiniti EX35 with other vehicles in its class to give you the best advice even when other reviews present conflicting opinions.
Likes:
- Coupe-like silhouette (for an SUV)
- Dynamic chassis with available all-wheel drive
- Comfortable cockpit
- High-quality feel
- Self-healing paint
Dislikes
- Small back seat
- Lots of potentially annoying gadgets
- No manual gearbox offered
- Not as sporting as G35 or G37 Coupe
Nissan launched its Infiniti division back in 1989. Back then, some of its models were nothing more than tarted-up Datsuns (what Nissans were called before they were Nissans). But there is nothing even remotely tarted up about the 2008 Infiniti EX35. As a matter of fact, the only Nissan that shares parts with the EX35 is the respected 350Z, a solid performer in everybody's book. In addition to tracing its genealogy to the Z, the EX35
shares even more with Infiniti's current G35 sport sedan and G37 sport coupe. These are good genes to have.
The genesis for the EX35 comes from a notion that traditional SUVs and crossovers are still too big for some buyers, so Infiniti kept the size of the EX on the tidy side. As a matter of fact, its wheelbase and key interior dimensions are smaller than those of the G35 sedan, which means there's not an excess of room in the backseat--though front-seat passengers will feel coddled. The look is handsome and sophisticated, with a techno-modern feel that's absent from similar vehicles from Lexus, for example.
Power comes from the G35's smooth-revving 297-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 and a five-speed automatic. The little crossover's suspension is buttoned down, making you feel as if you're piloting a sporty sedan instead of an SUV. Adding to this performance-oriented base, Infiniti offers a host of safety-related options that may warrant more of your attention: Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, and Around View Monitoring. There's also an extensive set of airbags, along with stability and traction control and anti-lock brakes.
The Bottom Line:
Because of the Infiniti EX35, 2008 could be year of the right-sized crossover. Many people are looking for SUV style without SUV size, and they should be particularly attracted to this offering.
Other Choices:
If you're interested in the 2008 Infiniti EX35, also consider:
- BMW X3
- Mercedes-Benz GLK (2009)
- Acura RDX
- Audi Q5 (2009)
- Lexus RX350
Reason why
It seems that Infiniti is on to something with its way-small crossover. While the Lexus RX 350, Acura RDX, and BMW X3 have all been around for years, each is larger and more "traditional" in their SUV-ness. The EX35 is much more compact and streamlined than any other available SUV or crossover. Following the EX into the market in 2009 will be two new entries, one each from Mercedes-Benz and Audi: the GLK and the Q5. Existing or yet to come, each of these competitors is (or will be) attractive on some plane, but the EX35 will remain the most sedanlike premium crossover out there.
Buying Tip:
The 2008 Infiniti EX35 comes well equipped in its standard form. Less than $2,000 separates the rear-wheel-drive model from the all-wheel-drive version. However, checking many option boxes on the order sheet easily adds $8,000 to this $35,000 vehicle. Your accountant would probably agree with TheCarConnection.com that too many "checks" isn't a good idea.
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Review was originally published at TheCarConnection.com
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