2008 Infiniti EX
Based on analysis of 28 EX reviews and test drives.
Infiniti EX - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Infiniti EX ranks 1 out of 4 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 28 published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti EX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Infiniti EX35 is a viable new offering in the luxury compact SUV class. Its high points are sporty handling and a hi-tech interior, while its downsides are lower fuel economy and less cargo space than top rivals.
The new-for-2008 EX is praised for its comfortable but fun ride and luxurious cabin, but it commands a steep sticker price and doesn't offer much in the way of off-road or towing capabilities. New Car Test Drive says: "With its carlike handling, powerful engine, and useful cargo room, the 2008 Infiniti EX35 is a fine alternative to larger, more cumbersome SUVs. The smooth ride and rich, classy interior add to the appeal." The EX35's top rivals are the Acura RDX, BMW X3 and Land Rover LR2. While the Land Rover beats the Infiniti for ruggedness, the BMW and Acura rival its sporty ride and offer even better fuel economy. However, the EX35 has them all beat with the only rear-wheel drive configuration in the segment -- and it snags the top spot in the class.
The EX35 is available in base trim or the more upscale Journey trim. It comes with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- "Given its standout sheetmetal, athletic chassis, foremost luxury, and clever technologies, the EX should prove a formidable player in its segment, even in light of its shortfalls. Really, how far can you fall when you possess style, speed, and sport?" -- Motor Trend
- "As far as SUVs are concerned, the EX35 lacks the off-road image of some competitors, but when it comes to recreational SUVs and sport-back 5-door sedans, you'll be hard pressed to find a better luxurious entry-level variant than the EX35." -- Road and Track
- "The Infiniti EX35 might be the right vehicle for single folks or young couples who put a premium on sleek looks, sporty handling, and Infiniti's nouveau-riche cachet. But if true utility is a requirement, there are better choices available." -- Forbes
- "In summary, 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. It will not meet the hauling needs of all families. Nor will it fit the pocketbooks of many. But if you can live with hauling less and you can foot the bill, it's worth it." -- Washington Post
EX Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)
The 2008 Infiniti EX35's standard rear-wheel drive configuration gives it sporty yet carlike handling on the highway, while its V6 engine packs more than enough punch for any maneuver. The Washington Post says the driving experience "easily is among the best in the crossover utility segment. In that regard, think of the EX35 as a tall version of the crisp-handling Infiniti G35 sedan on which the EX35 is based." However, the EX35's downsides include low fuel economy and negligent towing abilities. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why one reviewer recommends the rear-wheel drive model over the all-wheel drive configuration. continue
EX Exterior - 8.1 (Very Good)
The majority of reviewers love the sleek, muscular styling of the Infiniti EX35, which borrows elements from the G35 sedan. "Thumbs up to the exterior styling of the EX35; it looks good from virtually every angle, especially the face that's instantly recognizable as an Infiniti, highlighted by a large bold grille," says Road and Track. Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn about the EX35's unique self-healing paint. continue
EX Interior - 7.3 (Good)
The Infiniti EX35's five-seat cabin boasts high-quality materials and premium amenities, but it falls short on second-row room and cargo space. "The cabin is intimate, which is to say small: sports-car small in front and locked-in-a-steamer-chest small in the rear," says the Los Angeles Times. "Rear-seat legroom is well nigh vestigial." Continue with our full Interior Review to learn why large families or those with big loads to carry may want to pass on buying the EX. continue
EX Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The 2008 Infiniti EX35 absolutely stands out for its safety features. It's the first vehicle in Infiniti's lineup to offer the optional Lane Departure Monitoring System. On top of that, there's an optional Around View Monitor that is an even more advanced version of a back-up camera. The federal government has not yet crash tested the new EX, but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety names it a "Top Safety Pick." Continue with our full Safety Review to learn whether the EX's advanced safety systems are worth the extra dough. continue
EX Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Infiniti EX reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). We are still compiling data on the 2008 Infiniti EX's predicted reliability. The SUV comes with a basic warranty for the first four years or 60,000 miles as well as a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn more. continue