Review Roundup: New Crossover SUVs

Posted: Feb. 15, 2008 09:02 a.m.

USA Today reviews the 2008 Infiniti EX35 crossover vehicle, calling it "an annoying little conveyance" which features "a sweet engine and abundant technology, but also a disappointing transmission and jittery suspension -- all wrapped in a package too tight for most people."  The 3.5 liter V6 is "a honey, derived from the oh-boy powerplant of Nissan's 350Z sports car," according to reviewer James Healey. But the vehicle offers "very little" rear legroom, the interior width is "compromised, and headroom is on the shy side." Infiniti insists the EX35 is "aimed mainly at people with no kids, so a tight back seat is a non-issue." It's apparent the car has been built with commuters in mind -- there are coat hangers built onto the back of the front seats, to keep your jacket wrinkle-free on the ride to work.

Chicago Sun-Times reviewer Ira Siegel likes the mildly restyled 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2, saying the vehicle "has a lot to offer SUV buyers looking for avant-garde styling, excellent driving dynamics and a luxurious and comfortable cabin." The exterior has been restyled to offer "ore aerodynamic appeal and make it instantly recognizable as a member of the Volkswagen family." The cabin features "high quality materials, nice textures and rich feel are pleasing to the senses," and includes a four-zone climate control system so that each passenger can set their own temperature. "The only negatives I noticed inside were the somewhat tight rear quarters (high hump in rear floor), no available third-row seat, and navigational system that did not feature touch screen control," Siegel writes. Engine options include a 3.6-liter V6 and a 4.2-liter V8, though "neither is all that good regarding fuel economy." A V10 TDI diesel is the most fuel efficient option, earning a 15/20 mpg rating from the EPA.

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