2008 Infiniti EX35

By Benjamin Cyr

Genetically modified
A few years ago, vehicle categories were mostly discernable; sedans (of all sizes), SUVs, semi-trailers, station wagons and vans. Today, however, things are a little more complicated. The SUVs multitask and come in different formats, and then crops up this new category, a crossover which sits between an SUV and a sedan. As if this were not enough, Infiniti unveils a new concept, the EX35; it looks like a blend of luxury sport sedan and a crossover. Perhaps a compact sport crossover? In any case, the result seems interesting.

Between $40,000 and $50,000
The basic version starts at $40,600 and carries a complete package of standard features including heated leather seats, a computer on a central seven inch screen, ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive, a tire pressure monitor , and more. Regardless of the version, you get the excellent 3.5 litre engine. This reliable V6 is considered one of the best motors anywhere. The EX35 produces a very respectable 297hp output which is seconded by a very lively five-speed automatic transmission. The strait acceleration (0-100km in 6.4 seconds) and the in-gear pushes exceed expectations. There’s never a lack of power or torque, even when fully loaded. Quite impressive!

So what might you find in a fully loaded EX35 with $50,680 price tag, you ask? Well, I was simply awestruck by EX35 test model. Sit down and read this. A sonar system back and front ,automatically adjustable front xenon lights, rear seats that fold and rise electrically, navigational and voice recognition systems, an eleven speaker 24 bit Bose audio package, a laser sensitive electronic speed regulator, a back end camera and a view onscreen of the perimeter; this is a first. Four small cameras placed around the vehicle give you a 360* degree look to help you manoeuvre when parking. Pure genius! Wait, there’s more. Our model has a brand new lane roaming detection system; a discreet sound is emitted when the vehicle strays onto the dotted or full line followed by an automatic smooth correction! Yes, you heard right. All the while, the vehicle keeps its cruising speed. Impressive indeed! I raise my hat to this new security measure.