The proliferation of platforms has lead to all sorts of automotive cocktails. While classification was once an easy thing, it has become quite complicated today: the old SUVs are now crossovers and sedans come in all sizes and combinations. The Infiniti EX35 falls somewhere between these nebulous classes, an undeniably charming and capable vehicle.
The problem with the EX35 is that you don’t quite know what you should be comparing it to. Considering its size and function, you can definitely cross out the SUV profile. But because of its high stance and rear hatch, you can’t in good conscience lump it together with other sedans.
You kind of have to slip it in between the Acura RDX and other Audi Q5s.
Infinitely Infiniti
Those who haven’t recognized the EX’s Infiniti genetics at first glance need to make an appointment at the eye doctor’s. It definitely looks like the larger FX and especially the G37 and, happily, happens to be built around the same platform as the latter.
Thus it has inherited the main family traits, including the prominent front fenders and the rounded grille as well as the rather curvy tail end. In fact, when you look closer you can almost mistake it for a jacked-up G sedan.
Inside, though, the environment is both charming and elegant. The leathers were impeccably selected and are of superior quality, indeed the cabin is an exercise in refinement right down to the minutest of details. If it weren’t for the limited passenger space, the comfort level would be ideal.
Add to that a slew of easy-to-master controls, beautiful backlit gauges and a steering wheel with a good grip, and welcome to the wonderful world of Infiniti. So maybe the centre console with its myriad multimedia and navigation controls is a little confusing. While it’s not a model of simplicity, we’ve seen worse.
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| The EX35 is ndeniably beautiful, obviously luxurious and especially a joy to drive. (Photo: Nissan) |
The problem with the EX35 is that you don’t quite know what you should be comparing it to. Considering its size and function, you can definitely cross out the SUV profile. But because of its high stance and rear hatch, you can’t in good conscience lump it together with other sedans.
You kind of have to slip it in between the Acura RDX and other Audi Q5s.
Infinitely Infiniti
Those who haven’t recognized the EX’s Infiniti genetics at first glance need to make an appointment at the eye doctor’s. It definitely looks like the larger FX and especially the G37 and, happily, happens to be built around the same platform as the latter.
Thus it has inherited the main family traits, including the prominent front fenders and the rounded grille as well as the rather curvy tail end. In fact, when you look closer you can almost mistake it for a jacked-up G sedan.
Inside, though, the environment is both charming and elegant. The leathers were impeccably selected and are of superior quality, indeed the cabin is an exercise in refinement right down to the minutest of details. If it weren’t for the limited passenger space, the comfort level would be ideal.
Add to that a slew of easy-to-master controls, beautiful backlit gauges and a steering wheel with a good grip, and welcome to the wonderful world of Infiniti. So maybe the centre console with its myriad multimedia and navigation controls is a little confusing. While it’s not a model of simplicity, we’ve seen worse.
 |
| The leathers were impeccably selected and are of superior quality. (Photo: Nissan) |