2012 Infiniti EX35

People liked the 2012 Infiniti EX35 for its powerful and lively performance, stylish and sophisticated interior, and overall good looks, but its lack of space for cargo and passengers does not make it good choice as a family SUV.

It does offer features that you have come to expect from Infiniti. If you are not concerned about hauling more than a party of 5, then the EX35 will certainly serve that purpose.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $35,800.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (76 l) MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 183.2 in. (465.3 cm) Wheel Base: 110.2 in. (279.9 cm)
Height: 61.9 in. (157.2 cm) Width: 71 in. (180.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3753 lbs (1702 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 18.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 24 Valve V6 DOHC Displacement: 3.5 Liter
Horsepower: 297 HP Max RPM: 6800 RPM
Torque: 253 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
Available Trims & Engine
Option:EX35 AWD MSRP: $37,200; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:EX35 Journey MSRP: $38,100; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:EX35 Journey AWD MSRP: $39,500; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Engine

The car comes with standard rear wheel drive, but you have the option for all-wheel drive. This SUV comes with a 3.5 liter V6 engine that delivers 297 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 253 lbs-ft of torque along with a seven speed automatic transmission. The one complaint was that the powerful engine can be too loud.

Performance

Test drivers love the crisp way the EX35 handles, its sporty but easeful and balanced ride and fast acceleration. It gets 17 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway, whether or not it has all wheel drive.

Exterior

The Infiniti EX35 comes in a base trim and a Journey Trim. The Infiniti EX35 was praised by reviewers for its handsome looks.

Interior

The EX35 gets high marks for its aesthetically pleasing and sophisticated features. It has HomeLink, a system which links into the driver’s home security system and can remotely open most garage doors. The seats come upholstered in leather and are comfortable.

Some think the back seats to be cramped even for average sized adults and it’s hard to see out the rear. Others found the features in the Infiniti EX35 satisfactory, especially in the Journey trim. The base trim comes with a satellite radio, USB ports, a rearview camera, and push button start. Better yet, they’re easy to operate.

In the Journey, you will enjoy a telescopic steering wheel with power tilt, Bluetooth and an optional, state of the art navigation system and Bose audio system. Unfortunately, the X35’s Achilles heel is its cargo space. It offers only 18.6 cubic feet of space when all the seats are up. This is unacceptable for most reviewers.

Safety

This Infiniti gets high marks for safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives it “good” ratings for all tests and is considered a top safety pick. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives it four out of five stars for the rollover test, other safety tests scores are not yet available.

Reliability

J.D. Power and Associates gave the EX35 three and a half out of five rating, which means puts it as above average. The car comes with a number of warranties, including the basic warranty of four years/60,000 miles, the powertrain warranty is for six years/70,000 miles. The car also comes with seven years and unlimited miles for rust protection and a ten year and unlimited miles warranty for seat belts.

Pros

Reviewers really appreciate the way the EX35 handles. They also liked the high-tech features and the classy interior.

Cons

Lack of space is the main complaint. It’s also hard to see out of the back windshield.

Comparisons

The EX is considered one by many as an entry level option as far as SUVs are concerned. Choices for people who are in the market for a Luxury Compact SUV with more cargo and passenger space are the Acura RDX (MSRP $32,895; 19 city / 24 hwy), the Lincoln MKX (MSRP $39,545; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the Volvo XC60 (MSRP $35,800; 19 city / 25 hwy).

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“With tight rear seats and a small cargo area, the 2012 Infiniti EX35 is less like a sporty crossover, more like a high-riding sports sedan.”Car Connection

“EX corners well and exhibits only slightly more body lean than G37. A relatively tight turning radius aids in low-speed maneuvering. The optional Lane Departure Prevention system uses subtle braking impulses and beeps to alert driver of potential wandering at speeds above 45 mph and then corrects the vehicle’s direction. The brakes are smooth and strong.”Consumer Guide

“The EX is essentially a G wagon, with similar agile handling and a steady ride. The engine is powerful, making the EX quick.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Infiniti EX35 rides and handles very much like the G37 sedan from which it’s derived, and that’s a highly-commendable trait.”KBB

“Zesty handling and acceleration; compliant ride; classy cabin; sleek styling; versatile hatchback body style…Limited cargo capacity for a crossover; cramped rear legroom.”Edmunds

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