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Infiniti EX - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Infiniti EX ranks 2 out of 5 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 30 published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti EX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

New in 2008, the Infiniti EX boasts sporty handling and a hi-tech interior. Its few downsides include lower fuel economy and less cargo space than top rivals. Consider the BMW X3 for a larger back seat and cargo area.

"With its carlike handling, powerful engine, and useful cargo room, the...Infiniti EX35 is a fine alternative to larger, more cumbersome SUVs," says New Car Test Drive. "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. It's high-tech interior is also an advantage. In fact, the Journey model was one of CNET's nominees for 2008 Tech Car of the Year.

The EX35 is unchanged for this year. It is available in base Journey trim or the more upscale AWD Journey trim. It comes with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. According to Autoblog, Infiniti is planning to update the 2010 model with more cargo room and back-seat leg room.

• "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
• "The EX has great styling, excellent power and some wonderful features. But it's way too cramped in the back seat and the Lane Departure Warning is more annoying than useful." -- The Auto Channel

EX Performance - 8.5 (Very Good)

The 2009 Infiniti EX35's standard rear-wheel drive configuration gives it sporty, carlike handling on the highway. "While Infiniti's label for the EX is rather oxymoronic, the vehicle's dynamics parlay a much clearer message: The EX is a marvel to guide down a curvy road, delivering the most driver-focused experience of the group," says Truck Trend. However, the EX35's downsides include low fuel economy and sub-par towing abilities. continue

EX Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

The Infiniti EX35 borrows elements from the G35 sedan, which explains why reviewers love its sleek, muscular styling. "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. An especially unique feature is the EX35's self-healing paint. continue

EX Interior - 7.3 (Good)

The 2009 Infiniti EX35's cabin boasts high-quality materials and premium amenities, but it lacks decent 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," concludes the Los Angeles Times. "Rear-seat legroom is well nigh vestigial." That's part of the reason why large families may not find the EX suitable. continue

EX Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)

The federal government has not yet crash tested the new EX, but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 2008 model a "Top Safety Pick." The EX35 stands out for its safety features, including an optional Lane Departure Monitoring System and optional Around View Monitor. continue

EX Reliability - NA

The 2009 EX comes with a basic warranty for the first four years or 60,000 miles. continue