The 2009 Infiniti EX35 may be the definitive compact luxury SUV. This vehicle has every amenity one might find in a luxury sport sedan and the utility of an AWD wagon. However, Infiniti definitely emphasizes the “SPORT” in the unique vehicle. Infinity calls the EX a “coupe-inspired luxury crossover.”
The 2009 Infiniti EX35 may be difficult to classify, but it’s easy to appreciate. With its nimble dimensions, upscale interior, high driving position and athletic handling, the EX35 is just the vehicle out-skirmishing traffic and winning the commuting war. The Washington Post “gets” the EX35. Their conclusion, “Infiniti has a clear winner here: an exceptionally well-sculpted crossover utility/wagon with a very attractive interior, excellent safety engineering, reasonably good mileage and exceptional road performance.”
The compact, five-passenger 2009 Infiniti EX35 comes in base EX and Journey trims. The base EX features 17-inch alloys, automatic climate control, a power sunroof, keyless ingition and a CD audio system with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The Journey adds leather upholstery and power-folding seats and more. Black lacquer and aluminum trim pieces are standard in the EX35, and maple wood trim is available. Pricing for the EX35 begins at $35,450 (MSRP).
The most popular options are bundled. The Premium Package includes a Bose CD audio system with iPod integration, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and a dual-zone climate control system. Infiniti's Luxe Elite Package adds 18-inch wheels, premium leather upholstery and bi-xenon headlights. An advanced Technology Package includes a lane departure warning system, a 360-degree Around View Monitor and an available hard drive-based navigation system.
The EX35 is based on the Infinity G35 sport sedan and despite a two-inch stretch in the wheelbase, looks like a G35 wagon if such a model existed. Compared to the midsize FX series SUV, the EX is seven inches shorter and almost six inches narrower. The lines are sleek and the look is fast. You know the EX35 is a sport with a single glance. The exterior finish is gorgeous and intended to stay that way. As Forbes magazine pointed out, "The EX35's paint finish is a marvel of micro-engineering that basically heals itself of small scratches. Nissan, Infiniti's parent company, has developed a special highly elastic resin that, when combined with a conventional clear coat, can automatically fill in minor scratches and make them disappear after a few days."
The Infiniti EX35's standard 3.5-liter V6 engine generates 297 hp and 253 lb/ft of torque through a five-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is an option. Gobs of power and a sport oriented autobox combine for speed. Reviewers consistently timed the EX35 in the low six second range for the zero-to-60 mph run. Edmunds.com says, “The transmission's ability to match revs on downshifts heightens the impression of speed and makes the EX quite entertaining on back roads.” Infiniti's estimated fuel economy according to the EPA is 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with rear-wheel drive and 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway with AWD.
Like the Infiniti G35, the EX35 has a double-wishbone setup up front while its rear multilink design is derived from the larger FX. This combination results in “perhaps the best compromise between ride comfort and handling capability of any vehicle in the Infiniti lineup. It's noticeably more compliant than the G, yet it will keep up with most sport sedans on a back road,” stated Edmunds.com. Reviewers at TheFamilyCar.com agree that handling is the EX35’s strong suit. "Acceleration is brisk, the steering is sharp and the brakes are strong. The EX35 remains composed on the rough back roads and hangs on tenaciously around curves, with almost none of the body roll that is common to regular SUVs." Edmunds.com sums up the EX35 handling story nicely. “Even with the 18-inch wheels, the EX35 is perfectly comfortable over crumbling pavement, yet it feels sharp and responsive when hustled around turns. The brakes are strong and easy to modulate.”
Edmunds.com loves the EX35 interior. “The Infiniti EX35's cabin is uncommonly warm and inviting…although you really need to spring for the Luxe Elite option group to enjoy it to the full effect,” said their review. “High points include the flowing yet tailored design of the dash and supportive front seats, and the available two-tone color scheme. The driving position is excellent, thanks to a tilt/telescoping wheel and good sight lines.” A consensus of reviewers’ opinion confirms the solid ergonomics and impressive technologies found in the Infiniti EX35.
The 2009 Infiniti EX35 is a “two-in-one” vehicle that combines the best attributes of a sport sedan and those of a sport wagon and dispenses with the notion that crossover vehicles must make compromises. If the economy dictates a single vehicle and you find a sport sedan just doesn’t cut it as the family car, the 2009 Infiniti EX35 is for you. Call us soon to schedule a test drive.
