Of course, the EX35 carries Infiniti's Intelligent AWD system. This system works on driver input and although it always starts off in awd mode for maximum traction, it is predominately a rear-biased setup, and once the vehicle is in motion, it calls upon the front wheels only when additional grip is required. Now I can see why they call it "Intelligent"!!
Suspension and ride quality is supplied by a double wishbone system up front, and a multi-link setup to the rear. It also benefits from a lower centre of gravity than most current crossovers on the market. In fact, it sits close to the pavement for a vehicle of its size, and this is something which certainly adds to the distinct look of the vehicle.
From the outside, the EX35 does take one or two styling pointers from its larger stable mate, the FX, although it does not come across with quite the same boldness. In my mind, the EX35 is proportioned better, and is almost perfectly sized to be maneuverable in traffic, yet roomy enough to meet most owners' interior space requirements.
Let's talk about the interior. Upon entry, you get an immediate feeling of not only space and comfort, but of a true driver-inspired layout. The cockpit seems to almost flow around you, and both the driver and front passenger seat occupants experience a wonderful cocooned feeling from the sculptured design of the dash.
Naturally, being an Infiniti product, the EX35 boasts all the goodies that you would expect to see on a vehicle in this price range (Expect to pay from $45,000 to $55,000 for a totally loaded version). However, there are one or two which I feel need to be pointed out in particular.
One is the amazing DVD navigation system, which is available in the Technology package. This system not only allows for an excellent map guidance system, but the screen also displays the images from four cameras positioned about the vehicle. This innovative idea allows the driver a complete aerial view of what's around the outside of his vehicle. Think backup camera, but on the back, front and both sides of the vehicle...it's simply brilliant!!
The EX35 also comes completely Bluetooth enabled, with clever voice-command features to control just about everything if you wish, and a fully integrated I-Pod hookup package. It also features an internal hard drive allowing you to record and store all your favorite tunes from the radio or CD.
It even has something called a Self-repairing paint finish, which actually stays flexible to the point where it will cover up minor paint scratches caused by fingernails etc. That sounds really cool, but to be honest, I will hold my judgment on that until I see how it works in real life!
So there you have it. A crossover, that's not a crossover. A grown up sports sedan with a hatch. Whatever you want to call it, the EX35 is going to be big news this year. I can see a lot of manufacturers thumping their forehead and saying "Why didn't we think of that"?!!!
photo:Kevin Corrigan
Suspension and ride quality is supplied by a double wishbone system up front, and a multi-link setup to the rear. It also benefits from a lower centre of gravity than most current crossovers on the market. In fact, it sits close to the pavement for a vehicle of its size, and this is something which certainly adds to the distinct look of the vehicle.
From the outside, the EX35 does take one or two styling pointers from its larger stable mate, the FX, although it does not come across with quite the same boldness. In my mind, the EX35 is proportioned better, and is almost perfectly sized to be maneuverable in traffic, yet roomy enough to meet most owners' interior space requirements.
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| The interior is spacious and functional. |
Let's talk about the interior. Upon entry, you get an immediate feeling of not only space and comfort, but of a true driver-inspired layout. The cockpit seems to almost flow around you, and both the driver and front passenger seat occupants experience a wonderful cocooned feeling from the sculptured design of the dash.
Naturally, being an Infiniti product, the EX35 boasts all the goodies that you would expect to see on a vehicle in this price range (Expect to pay from $45,000 to $55,000 for a totally loaded version). However, there are one or two which I feel need to be pointed out in particular.
One is the amazing DVD navigation system, which is available in the Technology package. This system not only allows for an excellent map guidance system, but the screen also displays the images from four cameras positioned about the vehicle. This innovative idea allows the driver a complete aerial view of what's around the outside of his vehicle. Think backup camera, but on the back, front and both sides of the vehicle...it's simply brilliant!!
The EX35 also comes completely Bluetooth enabled, with clever voice-command features to control just about everything if you wish, and a fully integrated I-Pod hookup package. It also features an internal hard drive allowing you to record and store all your favorite tunes from the radio or CD.
It even has something called a Self-repairing paint finish, which actually stays flexible to the point where it will cover up minor paint scratches caused by fingernails etc. That sounds really cool, but to be honest, I will hold my judgment on that until I see how it works in real life!
So there you have it. A crossover, that's not a crossover. A grown up sports sedan with a hatch. Whatever you want to call it, the EX35 is going to be big news this year. I can see a lot of manufacturers thumping their forehead and saying "Why didn't we think of that"?!!!
photo:Kevin Corrigan
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