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Infiniti EX35 small SUV

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  • jrobejrobe Member Posts: 11
    http://www.caranddriver.com/previews/14268/first-drive-2008-infiniti-ex35.html

    Car and Driver review.

    They hit the nail on the head that this is just a G35 Hatchback (not that that is bad though).
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    They hit the nail on the head that this is just a G35 Hatchback

    Which we have also said right here on this board. ;)

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • carjimcarjim Member Posts: 155
    Here's a quote from "Nissan regional spokesman Steve Parrett" regarding the EX's price: "It will begin at about the same price as the G35 all-wheel-drive sedan." That puts it slightly under $35K.
    Notice he says the price will "begin" there. We should know if he got it right soon enough.
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    I think Edmunds full test of the EX35 may be the most in-depth I've read yet.

    24 mpg doesn't seem bad to me. Not at all, in fact. And, yes, I think I would get 24 with it. Maybe 23 at times. That's still better than I used to get with my 280hp Lincoln and not far off the 25mpg I used to get with my 350z. And 6.3 secs to 60mph doesn't seem too shabby.

    Edmunds also has started a discussion about the article

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • jaxs1jaxs1 Member Posts: 2,697
    image

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    Interior looks really nice.

    This car is not really practical at all. Very tight back seat and smallish cargo area.

    For the same $35K-40K, you could get a Buick Enclave or GMC Acadia and get much more room and near same fuel economy.

    However, the EX35 is really nice looking.
    Style will sell it.

    Because of pricing and looks, I bet there will some cross shopping between the EX and the Enclave even though they are not in the same size class.

    image
    image
    image
  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    The ironic tone of the C & D article reminds me the days long way back, when GM officials were laughing about Outback. But time did prove that Subaru was right - an industry turns to crossovers. The same thing is here. You can laugh, you can hate - but an idea to create such a vehicle is absolutely right.

    They are targeting singles, young families and ‘empty nesters’ - that’s right.
    EX extremely fit to the families, which have to share one auto. He loves CUVs she loves sedans. It’s very hard to convince her to drive CUV, if entire life she use to drive cars, but EX will be acceptable for both. “ 92% is car and 8% is truck “- that’s right. G with the Hatch - that’s right too.

    They are expecting to sale about 30,000 cars - that’s right. On the end of 2008 everything will be OK: consumers will be happy, dealers will earn some money and bosses will celebrate the victory, putting in their deep pockets big bonuses.

    But truth is: everything could be much, much better.
    More I loved Concept, more painful was to see how wisely thoughtful dimensions are gone.
    As result, EX has the smallest rear leg room number than any CUV around.
    Here are some numbers - Front/Rear legroom and Overall length:

    EX35 44.3/28.5 182.3
    BMW X3 40.2/35.8 179.9
    RDX 41.8/37.7 180.7
    LR2 41.9/36.4 177.1
    RAV-4 41.8/38.3 181.1
    Outlander 41.6/35.6 182.7

    Closest will be X3: If you move EX front seat on the position of 40.2" (like X3), you will get rear legroom - 32.6". It is 3.2" less than BMW X3.
    It’s unbelievable, but EX has 4.9" rear legroom less than Nissan’s own downscale Rogue.

    Who cut off 2" from those sacred, already in production 112.2" wheelbase, he just cut off thousands of potential buyers. Infiniti could sale not just 30,000 EX to the people who don’t care about rear seat, but much more to ones who does. For example, ‘empty nesters’ with one or two parents, people who needs smaller CUV, because of parking issue or simply, who don’t want to be ashamed, when he is picking somebody up on a back.

    It’s looks like I have to wait for next gen. EX, maybe EX37 with 20% SUV, with size 185" x 72", 112,2" wheelbase, 44.3/30.5 front/rear seat legroom, 18" wheels, 235 mm tires and 6.5-7" clearance?
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    do you have a source for the rear legroom other than the previously posted dealer's website? I still don't believe the 28.5" number. As I've posted before, that's less than a MINI!

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    For the same $35K-40K, you could get a Buick Enclave or GMC Acadia and get much more room and near same fuel economy.

    Wow! That has got to be one of the most extreme comparisons. I mean, by that same reasoning, who would pick ... I dunno... a corvette over a Grand Marquis? I can get similar mileage, a bigger car, AND save $40k!

    I think you know the answer here. The EX35 is only about utility when comparing to a G35. It is a sporty hatchback. Near 300 hp, RWD, and 0-60 in less than 6.5 secs, with a bit of utility thrown in ... that's what will sell it. And, no, NOBODY shopping an Enclave is getting this vehicle.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    And, no, NOBODY shopping an Enclave is getting this vehicle.
    I agree. Different vehicles, different missions.
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    oops... i meant "a Grand Marquis over a Corvette" ... obviously.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    Unfortunately, I met it again at motortrend.com review.
    I think comparison to subcompact cars is not correct, because their seats can be smaller.
    Lets compare to Infiniti own G35 Coupe
    (Front/Rear Overall)

    EX35 44.3/28.5 182.3
    G35 Coupe 43.8/31.4 182.2

    If you move EX35 Front seat just 0.5" forward on the position of 43.8", EX35 Rear leg room will be 30" - 1.4" less than their own Coupe!

    Who can tell mileage numbers, please?
  • jaxs1jaxs1 Member Posts: 2,697
    This review shows that 4 6-footers can comfortably ride in an EX35:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6WSQQisGSU

    I don't think that can be done in an G37 coupe or Mini, so there is something funny about the measurement numbers.
    Maybe the drivers seat just has a lot of rear travel and goes back to where it nearly touches the rear seat.

    Some people complain when the front seats can't be pushed back far enough because car makers game the rear legroom measurements by limiting the front seat travel.

    If you aren't using the back seat, why not let the front seat go all the way back to give the driver as much room as he wants?
  • pchera01pchera01 Member Posts: 8
    many people who look at infiniti will look at BMW. because these two companies share something in common i am 33 with 3 kids, i can't recall when was the last time i sat in second row seat...
    most of the time my two kids or some stuff from walmart
    how many times, have you seen an adult travel in car or something small like this in a second row? no
    I have a Armada and I am planing to buy the EX35. so this is bigger(sits) than car and smaller than Armada and my wife can drive it too with 3 kids and all of us trips in Armada...
    but, before i buy this CUV, i want to see it in person, i want to make sure it will not a station wagon...
    can't say from picture
    but it looks so far and good rivews too
  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    There are three reviews at cars.com by:
    Jim Matija (Chicago Tribune Oct.,28);
    G. Chambers Williams III (Star-Telegram.com Oct.,21)
    Cars.com Staff (Oct.,11)
    Jim reviewed Journey AWD. 35K - he said (Est.). But leather seats has been switched from Journey to Luxe Elite Package. He gives some info on the packages.

    cars.com - reviews - Infiniti 2008 EX35 - Owners and Experts Reviews
  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    Cars.com - Research - Infiniti 2008 EX35 - Owners and Experts Reviews
  • promikepromike Member Posts: 35
    I've owned half dozen or so Z's over the years (starting with 260Z) and since the G35 is a sister car to the Z and since I'm getting to the age that I have to get in a Z [non-permissible content removed] first...I'm hoping the EX will be kind of be a 350Z awd, suv, sw for older guys. Can't wait to try one on for size and take a spin.
  • jzr28jzr28 Member Posts: 2
    Looking at the Infiniti web site on the EX35 leather is still part of the Journey package with upgraded leather part of the Luxe Elite package
  • carjimcarjim Member Posts: 155
    This release has a dateline of November 16 from Automotive News.

    It says the EX will start at $32,015, including shipping. Sale date is December 21.

    Of course the optional packages will make it more. Still, I am relieved.
  • richqdrichqd Member Posts: 16
    Looking forward to viewing the ex 35; like the motor, the 0-60 speed, gas mileage ok, the options offered, design ? need to see it up front, but did they really crimp on the rear seating and behind the seat storage that it will kill my purchasing it, cause I am looking forward to buying something very similar to this.
  • jmessjmess Member Posts: 677
    The downer so far is no sport package. A RWD E35 with a limited slip diff would get my attention. Electronic traction nannies don't compare to the real thing.
  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    Yes, leather seats are standard on Journey, but price is $1250 up on Journey AWD from 35K, we did count for.

    EX RWD 31.3K
    EX AWD 32.7K (Look just $1400 for ATTESA E-TS Intelligent AWD system)
    EX RWD Journey 34.85 K
    EX AWD Journey 36.25 K

    On a positive side, Technology Package: Around View Monitor, Lane Departure Prevention System and Intelligent Cruise Control costs reasonable $1950.
    Also, who will buy Luxe Elite Package for $1650 or Luxe Style Package for $1250, will enjoy not 225 mm, but 255 mm tires and 18” wheels.

    Premium Package - $2150
    Navigation Package - $2150

    Go to nissannews.com
  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    Nothing will stop you from buying the best small CUV available, but when you will trade it in with a new next generation EX in 4-5 years, don't forget to ask for Infiniti Loyal Customer discount.
  • richqdrichqd Member Posts: 16
    ????? and not too sure about the UV following the C, that being my concern
  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    Lets separate U from V. Concept was good, but they shrink a bit U in a favor of V. They gain 7 more hp and mileage a bit too, I believe. On U side they relay on a power folding/unfolding back seats. Maybe it’s right. Who will tell you full story, but listen what specialists say:

    “With smooth powerful engine and well-appointed cabin, EX35 is a sportier, more luxurious alternative to Acura’s RDX. Like G35’s comfortable, posh interior, sporty performance and available AWD, but need more cargo utility? This Recommended pick has you covered.”
    (Consumer Guide. Auto-2008)
    More about rear seat:
    “Headroom is ample, but legroom is just adequate for the average sized tester. Bolstered seats are supportive and comfortable. Wide swinging doors helps ease entry/exit through fairly narrow opening.” They rated rear seat – 6 points.
    About cargo room:
    “EX35’s wide opening hatch and fairly low height aid in loading cargo. Optional power-folding second row creates a nearly flat load floor with ease. EX35’s cabin features large glovebox and deep center console, but has shallow door pockets.” 7 points.
    Value – 8 points. And Total: 74 points.

    I did say: EX35 fell 3” short to Success, but what is better in the class?
    Rear Seat/ Cargo Room/ Value/ Total

    RDX - 5/ 8/ 5/ 61
    BMW X3 – 6/ 9/ 4/ 67
    LR2 – 5/ 7/ 6/ 65
    EX35 – 6/ 7/ 8/ 74
  • richqdrichqd Member Posts: 16
    Coming out party on the 21st of December, be able to check out the all wheel drive, and if it doesn't live up to (total) expectations , hmmmm, the FX45 will be redesigned and showing up in June.....probably similarily equipped, take away some gas mileage stats, but fire up that super V8 - vroom. All FXers are loving it
  • alex789alex789 Member Posts: 20
    You are on a right track. FX45 is a powerful beast. One guy had his FX45 up to 135 mph several times in a race with other cars. He did bit in a race 8 Porsche Cayenes, including turbo one. FX 50 (390 hp) will be even faster, heaving the same size, but reduced weight. Infiniti claims more sportier look too and two novelties:
    Slow moving traffic cruise control, that will slow dawn and speed up car, fallowing the traffic and auto adjustable mirrors when you move in the seat.
  • ts1234ts1234 Member Posts: 21
    Is the new Infiniti EX set up for 4 passengers or 5?
    Didn't see a middle head rest in the back seat.

    Tom
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    supposed to be 5. A middle headrest is not all that common in 5-passenger vehicles.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • carjimcarjim Member Posts: 155
    Because I signed on to receive email updates on the EX, Infiniti sent me a new one. The focus is on the tech features such as lane departure warning.

    As for as launch parties, the two dealers nearest me have not let out a peep. They are Grubbs Infiniti, which covers the mid-cities between Ft Worth and Dallas, and Sewell which is located in Dallas. We have two Infiniti vehicles, one purchased from each store.
  • wwestwwest Member Posts: 10,706
    "..Electronic traction nannies don't don't compare to the real thing..."

    How very, very true.

    They are head and shoulders above the obsolete mechanical style LSDs of yesteryear. On my '01 911/996 C4 TC will INSTANTLY brake a wheel that slips and just as instantly dethrottle the engine if both rear wheels are slipping.
  • izmirianizmirian Member Posts: 49
    I'm totally with you on that. My 325 ci has an amazing balance and wonderful DSC (dynamic stability control) system that today saved my life. I like driving fast especially when cornering, trusting to the safety of TC. I drive my car to the limits and most of the time activate the system. I think it does an amazing job.

    Anyways, going back to the forum topic, today I've seen the ex35 for the first time. They have it in 4 bloomingdale stores around US. I live in NoVA and went to the store just to check out the car. I'm telling you much better than my expectations. It's not very small, not too big. Perfect size. Not too high, not too low like a station wagon. It still has the suv feel. Very good quality details. Can't wait to drive one. I guess I'll be paying the full msrp and buy asap it comes out.
  • jmessjmess Member Posts: 677
    It still vote for a mechanical LSD like is availible in the G35 sport. The big downer for the 3 series is a real LSD isn't available as an option like you find with the G35 and IS350. Having two wheels driven in the rear allows the rear end to be more easily rotated with throttle and improves corner exit speeds. It also helps in slick conditions.

    Also anyone who bets the farm on stability control on a regular basis is an accident waiting to happen as many foolish performance car owners have found out. If the stability control is saving your butt then you need to figure out why/how you are getting to that point in the first place. A high performance driving school would be a good place to find out.

    Back to the EX-35, Edmund's now has pricing available and the specifications list regular fuel, does anyone know this is true. Is regular the recommended fuel for the EX-35?
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    hmmm... i would find regular fuel hard to believe. I mean, my 350z required premium and that was with the older 280hp version. The EX has a 297hp version of the engine ...

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • carjimcarjim Member Posts: 155
    Our 2003 QX4 also recommends premium. I believe it is 240 hp. Come to think of it, has there EVER been an Infiniti that recommends regular?

    When we bought the Q, our service advisor quoted a Nissan rep who said despite the recommendation for 91 octane, 87 octane would work fine.
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    in most non-supercars, you can just go ahead and use regular fuel. The computer will compensate. However, you won't be getting the most power or best economy that the vehicle is rated at.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • jmessjmess Member Posts: 677
    The ECMs are getting better and better at managing engine ping/knock. I have ran regular in my C6 Corvette several times on road trips and haven't noticed any big change in MPG. In stop and go traffic it might be different though.
  • red_emronred_emron Member Posts: 10
    I saw an EX35 in Atlanta at Bloomingdales. What a great car!!!

    The dealership I bought my 2006 G35 from is now taking orders.
    They have 50+ coming in the next two months.
    Can I mention the dealer name?
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    yes, dealership names are ok to mention. just not individual salespeople.

    i'm still waiting for infiniti to get the "build your own" up on their site.

    and when exactly is it coming? originally i read november, then december, now january. i'm having doubts about that since it is only a few weeks away and you still can't build your own on their site. You can do it here on Edmunds, but I have found discrepancies between that and the manufacturer in the past, so I don't completely trust it. As it is, I built on using edmunds and came up with a $38k pricetag. Ouch! That's more than I was hoping. I don't really want everything in that $38k vehicle, but unfortunately, edmunds says I can't add any options to the base model. I'm not even sure what stepping up to a touring model adds to the vehicle. I just know I want the premium package so i can get more comfort adjustments for driving position and I would probably want the better stereo.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • richqdrichqd Member Posts: 16
    Can hardly wait to get a look at this vehicle. Some of the early talk about rear seat space and cargo area has somewhat tainted my thought of what I am going to see. Now some of the latest posts are sounding very positive, like it is normally sized and looking good, and I too await infiniti to open up the build your own segment.
  • ts1234ts1234 Member Posts: 21
    Are the rear passenger windows tinted on the EX?
    Dosn't look that way from the pre production models.
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    Autoweek reported getting 25.6 mpg in a RWD EX35. I think that's pretty darned good for near 300 hp and near 2 tons of vehicle. That's a bit better than I used to average in my 350z!

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • carjimcarjim Member Posts: 155
    Our local PBS station (D/FW) is scheduled to air "Motorweek" this Saturday at 3:30pm. The show will have a road test of the EX. However, the outlet is in the middle of raising funds, so they may not air it.

    SPEED on satellite carries the same program. I am hedging my bets and will try to watch it on satellite.
  • richqdrichqd Member Posts: 16
    Watched the Motorweek bit, sounds like a well equipped two seater with a good size trunk. Half decent speed and gas mileage. Need to see it in person to determine if style has any pa-zazz. In person could happen on Friday of this week, so that is good.
  • g2memphisg2memphis Member Posts: 17
    We had our annual (Motor Trend sponsored) auto show here in Memphis this weekend. It was our first opportunity to actually see, touch and sit in the car. MY first impression ws that the EX is a pretty, high-tech "cute little car". I am a 6', 225# male and with the exception of the driver's legroom (which was more than ample) most other body spaces felt small. With only a couple of inches less than the FX's wheelbase, I wonder where all the space went! All the previous blog discussions with rear seat legroom seem insignificant; the entire car interior cries out to be 'inflated'. Otherwise, my impression of the car was that is was a very nice looking, powerful, high-tech driving machine! :confuse:
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    the entire car interior cries out to be 'inflated'.

    ?? But that's what the FX is for. This is for those who found the FX too "inflated."

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    I caught the program, too.

    I felt it was greatly lacking in information. It was also poorly constructed. They didn't actually tell the viewer what they were driving until the end. So, for instance, when they posted the 0-60 of 6.7 secs, I had to wait until the quick talking during the gas mileage segment to figure out they were driving an AWD model. I learned nothing new, overall.

    Anyway, just my constructive criticism.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • samiam_68samiam_68 Member Posts: 775
    With only a couple of inches less than the FX's wheelbase, I wonder where all the space went!

    The hood on the EX is too long - that's where the big waste of space is. No need to have such a long engine compartment to house a V6 engine.
  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,740
    Interesting comment.

    I would say, however, there can be a reason for such a thing. I have NO idea if it is true in this case, but I could see a manufacturer doing this so that they can set the engine further back in the car, thereby improving weight distribution.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • upstatedocupstatedoc Member Posts: 710
    I wonder why Infiniti thinks they need a vehicle smaller than the FX? To compete with Acura's RDX?. I test drove an FX back when I bought my '04 MDX and thought it was too small. RDX's certainly aren't selling like hotcakes, the people they're trying to sell it to can't afford it. What they need is a vehicle between the FX and the QX 757 :P The MDX is selling like hotcakes.
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