Vehicle: 2008 Infiniti EX35 with Journey Pkg, Premium Pkg and Navigation Pkg
Price as tested: CDN$48350

Performance: As its name implies, the EX is powered by Nissan’s renowed VQ35DE engine series. In EX’s case, its good for 297 horses and 253 lb/ft of torque. When it comes to acceleration, its more responsive than its more expensive silibing, the aging FX35, which share the same powertrain. Even under EX’s close to 3000 pounds body, its more than capable to hold its own against its rivals. The level of refinement and smoothness have always been VQ35DE’s trademark and it remains intact. Surprisingly, Infiniti’s typical ugly exhaust note has gone for something more delightful to listen to. Unlike the higher performing VQ35 High Output series, the powertrain remains breathless at the top end. Matched with this V6 is another typical item from Nissan. A 5-speed manumatic which shifts accordingly. It also got right gear ratios to match this nice motor, which means it always at the sweet spot whenever driver needs it.

Handling: While EX doesn’t have the handling edge of Acura RDX and composure of a BMW X3, its dynamics are good enough to hold against its rivals. The most surprising fact is this EX doesn’t ride like its on rough ocean as other Infinitis do. It actually rides more than acceptably even compares to its competitions. As expected from this chassis, its rock-solid and free of rattles. EX handles like a G35 on steriods. Nothing spectacular but nothing outstanding neither. The steering feel provides decent enough feel, same as dynamic stability control acts at the right time at the right place. Its AWD has done what it supposed to be for a compact luxury SUV.

Brakes: With 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, EX’s pedal feel is much better than average even under Westcoast’s typical slush plus snow weather. ABS kicks in when necessary.

Interior: For Infiniti’s usual standards, EX’s interior can be described as “what an interior”. Finally, Nissan is willing to invest the money into building an interior that makes driver and passengers feel good at 48 large. Although the use of materials and fit-and-finish aren’t up to the world’s best, its already a huge achievement for a company which infamous for producing el cheapo interiors for the last 6 years. Despite that, EX has the ugliest passenger front airbag seam line I have ever seen. Instead of cut as a circle, it cuts right in the middle. What an eyesore!

The instrumentation gauges are clear and analog. Stereo and climate control are placed in the right place. However, the navigation system, as with all Infinitis, seem placed more toward the sky than the driver. Leather material remains so-so given how much Infiniti charges for this vehicle.

When it comes to cargo space, don’t expect much. Any hatchback and wagon can provide as much or even more space than this EX35 even with fold-down rear seats.

Conclusion: The EX represents a refreshing change for Infiniti. It finally got the right interior material, proper ride quality and decent dynamics. However, its packaging also represents a poor relations in this luxury SUV world. It lacks the handling sharpness of an Acura RDX. It lacks the cachet and legendry straight-6 of a BMW X3. It even lacks the off-road capability of a Land Rover LR2. Just wait until Mercedes introduces GLK, Audi gives us their Q5 and VW finally brings us the Tiguan; Infiniti will have tough enough time to sell a $48k EX35 without any standout merits.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2008 Infiniti EX35
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Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 3/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 3/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 2/5
Value-for-money: 2/5

Overall rating: 3/5