Picture Gallery: 2008 Infiniti EX35 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Discuss
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Like most Nissan and Infiniti products, the EX35 is powered by Nissan’s acclaimed 3.5litre VQ V6 engine. In this particular form the engine is capable of 297hp: quite substantial in a vehicle that is not that large. The only transmission available in the EX35 is a 5-speed automatic with a manual mode that rev matches on down shifts.
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The EX35 starts at $40,400 and comes standard with its sharp looks, powerful engine and ATTESA E-TS All-Wheel Drive system. Also included as standard is Infiniti’s Scratch Shield paint that is supposed to prevent swirl marks and small scratches; as well, there is the usual flurry of acronyms such as: EBD, TCS, ABS, BA, TPMS and VDC.
My tester is not fully loaded but very nearly so. Included on my tester is the Journey package ($1,600) which adds: a power moonroof, power folding second row seats, automatic dimming review mirror, front and rear sonar systems and automatic headlights.
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Also included is the premium package ($3,100) which adds a ton of features including: Bose premium 11-speaker stereo system, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, eight-way power passenger seat and two memory driver’s seat, 18-inch wheels and Xenon auto-leveling adaptive headlight system.
But it doesn’t end there. This vehicle has to be the most technically feature rich vehicle I have ever driven, as it also is equipped with the $3,250 navigation package which adds the obvious navigation system, but it also adds: voice recognition for the audio system and HVAC controls, 9.3GB music box and compact flash slot and rear view monitor.
And as if that isn’t enough, my EX35 tester is also equipped with the technology package for another $1700 which adds a bunch of acronyms: AVM (Around View Monitor), LDW (Lane Departure Warning), LDP (Lane Departure Prevention) and ICC (Intelligent Cruise Control). Needless to say, this EX35 is a techno-junkie’s dream!
2008 Infiniti EX35
MSRP as tested (including destination): $51,700
For more information on Infiniti and the EX35 visit Infiniti Canada
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If you like buttons, you will like the interior as well; there seems to be a button for everything. On top of that, there is a touch screen for the navigation system and audio system configuration.
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Some of the technology is just plain cool, like the around view monitor which not only gives you a view of the rear when backing up but a shot of the sides and front as well. You can also switch the view to the right side to see how close you are to the curb — great for impressing onlookers as you come within inches of the curb while parallel parking but manage to not scrape your 18-inch rims.
The interior is warm and inviting and comfortable to boot. The driver’s seat offers all the adjustments you need, including lumbar and power tilt, as well as telescoping steering. The rear seats are fairly comfortable as well with a surprising amount of legroom for the size of the vehicle.
Trunk space is limited slightly by the sloping rear, which is what gives the EX35 its distinctive looks. The loading height is fairly high too, so you do not gain much vertical space at all. I was able to fit five 18kg boxes of cat litter and a bunch of groceries inside, but cargo capacity is no larger than that of a small hatchback car.
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My tester EX35 has the LDW (Lane Departure Warning) and LDP (Lane Departure Prevention) systems. Couple that with ICC (Intelligent Cruise Control) and you can nearly close your eyes on the freeway ( though this is not recommended).
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But what about when you are doing the driving? I’d describe it as very car-like with a higher ride and outward visibility. The ride is smooth-yet-sporty and compliant and handling is very car like as well, with never a worry that you may tip over.
The turning radius is not all that great, though, which is most likely due to the AWD system, so parking in tight spaces can be a little bit of a pain until you get used to it. Visibility is excellent, though, especially with the extra-large side mirrors and the rear glass behind the C-pillar.
As expected on the highway, the EX35 is very quiet and comfortable, and, for that matter it is in the city as well. The EX is easy to maneuver, with a light steering feel at low city speeds. With ample power on tap for passing and acceleration, the EX35 really is a joy to drive in all conditions.
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I averaged 10.7L/100km with an average speed of 73km/h. On the highway, during my trip to Montreal, the fuel consumption computer read as low as 9.1L/100km but rose quite quickly while idling in traffic downtown and circling the block over and over and over again while I was searching for parking.
The EX35 is a good sized CUV; not extremely large but big enough to carry four adults in comfort plus a good amount of cargo. I enjoyed every aspect of the EX35 except the rear tailgate handle that is / was held on with only a bit of sticky tape and constantly fell out when trying to close the hatch. I was surprised by this as it seems out of character with the rest of the vehicle’s build quality. Perhaps there are some broken clips on this model, one can only hope.
*Rating out of 5:
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*Rating based on vehicle’s classification
2008 Infiniti EX35
MSRP as tested (including destination): $51,700
For more information on Infiniti and the EX35 visit Infiniti Canada
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April 01, 2008, 09:36:30 am James: Can you take some measurements of the trunk?
1) From seat back to inside the hatch.
2) Between wheel wells.
3) Between the walls near the back.
Thanks.
April 01, 2008, 12:25:00 pm I haven't had an opportunity to examine one up close yet, but I sure am seeing them all over the place (usually flying past me at high velocity). My first impression is "good looking, but tiny". Doesn't seem like it would offer much if any extra room over a G35 sedan.
Jaeger
April 01, 2008, 01:24:23 pm I personally think this vehicle (CUV, SUV, wagon, hatchback, whatever you want to call it) is a very good deal. A luxurious 300HP awd vehicle for $40k. It's cheaper than the G35x (which is essentially the exact same vehicle with exact same options) so unless you really love the G35's look muchmore than this EX35, I don't know how Infiniti expects people to shell out an extra few thousand $ for the G35x.
But a word of warning for people considering this vehicle. I have 3 friends who have the the G35 (1 of them a G35x). The leather quality for the seats isn't the greatest, cracked and stretched to varying degrees on all 3 vehicles and the fuel economy is terrible with that 3.5L engine. 2 of my friends drive their vehicle with a soft foot, one of which has the awd (sf), while the other has a heavier foot and their fuel average ranges from 14.0-16.3L/100KM, which is nowhere near the rated fuel economy.
April 01, 2008, 02:38:38 pm
If Infiniti would offer an EX with a six-speed as a no-cost option, then I would call it a serious competitor for the STI and EVO. Not as fast or fun, sure, but way more luxurious and a lot prettier, too.
April 01, 2008, 05:34:32 pm
1) From seat back to inside the hatch. 33 inches
2) Between wheel wells. 43 inches
3) Between the walls near the back. 55 inches
Rough measurements.
April 01, 2008, 07:58:49 pm One of the worst vehicles for space utilisation.
My 1999 2 door BMW has faaaaar more space in the back seat, and is much easier to get into.
Rubish, and a total waste of good metal.
April 01, 2008, 10:23:48 pm
1) From seat back to inside the hatch. 33 inches
2) Between wheel wells. 43 inches
3) Between the walls near the back. 55 inches
Rough measurements.
Thanks. Doesn't sound too bad for the type of car it is.
To compare the new Jetta Wagen is 42/39/50.
April 02, 2008, 10:52:58 am Infiniti SUVs are pretty ugly in my opinion... and so are most car/minivan based SUV.
But, if that's what fits your needs and style, go for it. Infiniti reliabiliy is great.
April 02, 2008, 12:43:48 pm
This is the main reason I went with the TSX over a G35. Similar fuel economy numbers have been reported by G35 drivers for a while. I just don't need the extra power, and I drive so many kilometres that I didn't want to be using 14L/100km for 32,000km/year. I'm saving over $2000/year in gas alone by using <9L vs. 14L. I know I could get down below 6L with a TDI or hybrid or economy car, but a guy has his standards
Back to the EX, I really thought it was based on the Rogue when I saw it at the Infiniti dealer while I was in for service. Real off coincidence, with both being introduced so close together. Knowing it's based off the GX makes it more appealing, even if the utility is questionable.
April 02, 2008, 12:47:46 pm who needs a TSX or any expensive car for their major MILEAGE anyway?
April 02, 2008, 02:42:47 pm
I don't "need" it, but I like it, and I can afford it and vacations if I want. From a purely economic standpoint, any new car is a wasteful expense. But I know the complete history of my car, I am confident in it, and the driver's seat is now broken in nicely for my butt.
April 02, 2008, 04:27:19 pm Besides, some sucker has to take the initial depreciation hit, otherwise there'd be no used cars for the rest of us to buy!
April 03, 2008, 06:17:35 am Demo, if any of my low-mileage cars turn out to be lemons, I'll give you first crack at them.
April 03, 2008, 02:15:12 pm I like how Infiniti styled the EX, the power and value, and the luxurious leather touches and intimate/coddling interior they've created.
HOWEVER, I find it fairly space inefficient as well. The cargo capability is quite tiny (sloping hatch doesn't help), and the seat room front and rear smallish... but if you're a smaller person or could live with a luxurious performance-oriented compact car but appreciate extra ride height it is a compelling package. And from image alone looks good.
Inadequate space wouldn't put it anywhere near my shopping list tho.
April 04, 2008, 02:23:21 pm Well said SirAqua.
It seems that since this thread started I am just seeing these things EVERYWHERE. I thought they looked good at first blush, but find I am liking the looks even better now.
One thing I wonder about - and this touches upon the fuel economy issue - is Nissan's choice of a 5 speed automatic when it seems that everyone is going for 6 (or more) speeds these days. Surely a taller overdrive gear would assist (with highway mileage, anyway).
On a recent Oakville to Stouffville return trip I got an average of 8.2 l / 100km from my 3.5l 6 speed manual Altima. I was doing at or just under 120 for most of the trip. On a longer road trip to Vermont - where I was babying it - mostly under
115 (I so did not want to have a "hello officer" experience in a foreign country) I did even better. If I had "only" 5 forward gears I doubt my numbers would have been as good - and I think those numbers ARE pretty good for so powerful a motor.
Jaeger
April 04, 2008, 02:37:55 pm
I doesn't matter how many gears the car has, just the final ratio. A 6 speed could have (and sometime does) have the same final ratio as the 5 speed did. Also, with the amount of power this engine is putting out, there should be no reason why either final drive would have to be different. Just fix the spacing in the first 5 gears.
I think the TSX is an example of this. The 5-auto cruises at a lower rpm than the 6-manual does.
April 04, 2008, 03:17:43 pm Think Infiniti as a whole has products geared more towards men. Certainly the G, M, and FX in my mind are quite masculine. The QX too although some women like to own the road too - gotta be safe out there. This is the only Infiniti that I think really appeals to females with its sensual styling, rich interior, manageable size, and around-view camera... very much doubt that was an accident. Of course, with the power and handling males won't be afraid to drive it either.
I haven't seen many in my neck of the woods, but sure do notice when I do.
April 04, 2008, 03:38:23 pm I do not think I have seen any out this way
Can anyone over 6-1( 1.82m) drive this vehicle
April 04, 2008, 03:49:06 pm
Can anyone over 6-1( 1.82m) drive this vehicle
I can sit up front, but just find it confining feeling. The long hood and swoopiness means pillars are closer to you and the roof ends behind rear passenger's heads so feels lower, but the head room itself is certainly adequate.
Is there an Infiniti dealer in Kingston? Don't know if there's one between central Toronto and Ottawa?
April 04, 2008, 03:56:31 pm Closes one is Markham Infiniti, beside GTA , next closes in Ottawa.
I know any Nissan dealer can get one, but I guess any person with the dealers licenses can get you any car
April 04, 2008, 04:07:41 pm No Infiniti dealer and not many Infiniti's on the road here. Same for Lexus.
April 05, 2008, 12:38:21 am ^ I did hear recently Kingston is getting a BMW dealer, though.
Think Infiniti as a whole has products geared more towards men. Certainly the G, M, and FX in my mind are quite masculine. The QX too although some women like to own the road too - gotta be safe out there. This is the only Infiniti that I think really appeals to females with its sensual styling, rich interior, manageable size, and around-view camera... very much doubt that was an accident. Of course, with the power and handling males won't be afraid to drive it either.
I haven't seen many in my neck of the woods, but sure do notice when I do.
I see lots of women driving the G35 coupe, and know at least one woman that drives an M45. I don't think Infiniti's products are any more "masculine" than their competition...
April 07, 2008, 08:35:43 am Has anyone heard any news about the Audi Q5? It should be in the same class as the EX but hopefully with better fuel economy and perhaps a little more cargo room.
April 08, 2008, 08:12:26 am
Think it's supposed to be unveiled next week in China. I doubt it'll look as fluid as the EX, nor pack as much value or engine.
April 12, 2008, 09:11:13 pm
The Infiniti G series has often - and I would add erroneously - been suggested by some as being a high-end luxury Altima. This is not even close to the truth. The G series are RWD vehicles, whereas the Nissan's are FWD. That alone sets them apart, and as such, they are very different cars in virtually every respect.
While it has many downsides, as noted by some previously in this thread - this is a luxury vehicle that uses premium fuel with a focus on performance transportation. Personally, I compare the EX to the Audi Avant A4 Quattro, BMW 3 series X wagon, loaded CX-7 or Outback. All very good vehicles. More wagons/estates/hatches, please.