Infiniti EX35 small SUV

cap58

I also went from an FX to an EX. When you see the 2 parked next to each other, you see that it is really smaller than the FX. But when you are driving it, you don't get that feeling. I was pleasantly surprised that the cargo area wasn't so much smaller - I can still put my suitcase in lengthwise - it's just narrower.

I too love all the toys on it - it definitely handles more car like than the FX - it doesn't have the "roar" that the FX has. I haven't checked the gas mileage yet - I have a 200 mile trip in the morning, so I'll be thrilled if I can get the 30+ miles per gallon on the highway that were mentioned.

I had heard the same lease residual figures from my dealer - 56% after 39 months. I ended up purchasing though, so I don't know what the leases are looking like - the finance manager at my dealer told me they were pretty high right now.

ursamajor

I drove an AWD EX35 today. The feel is similar to the G35 sedan I now drive but definitely lacks the acceleration of the G35. The steering is a bit light for my taste, and is not variable, so it's not as sporty and firm when you might expect it. The rear compartment with rear seats folded down is more than enough space for my needs, which woud be either a bicycle or two (front wheels removed)or skiing equipment, or several golf club sets or file boxes, etc. I sat in the rear seats and as observed in this forum, indeed creates a very awkward exit for any passenger, requiring considerable flexibility, or lifting one's lead leg over the side pillar. I am single, so it's unlikely that I'll have any rear passengers. If you have small children, the back seat is fine, but not for full-size adults.

As to leasing and pricing: unlike BMW, Infiniti doesn't lock the MF and residual at the time the order is placed with downside advantage if the lease terms improve while an ordered vehicle is being manufactured. They almost guaranteed that with a new model release, those variables would improve over time. If I ordered today (ha!) it would take 2-3 months to arrive, and by then, my lease payments would be considerably less. I accept this, factoring in the dollar exchange rate, the new model purchasing cycle, and the past year, which shows that nationally, auto sales were off considerably, and the 1st week of this year was the worst in the last five. I would expect that by March, you could get an EX for $ 2000 under MSRP, while today, I was offered $ 500 under if I wished to buy a vehicle from inventory.

Here is an example: AWD EX35 Journey, premium, wood, cargo protector, handling: MSRP 39735; cap. cost. 39235 resid. .56, MF .0022; 36 mo. lease, 10,000m/yr:
current monthly lease:$ 657.10.

I reduced the MSRP by $ 2000, used .60 residual and .0017MF and computed $ 531.10. This is based upon casual discussion with the dealer with which I have my current lease; nothing certain about these numbers, but they are probably realistic. The obvious conclusion is: car sales will not heat up during the next few months, wait at least three months to make a deal. Please share any experiences in leasing/pricing!!

chaosattractor

That's a good point about prices; however to be fair, your hypothetical best case scenario numbers are a little unrealistic. Residuals never improve dramatically over the short term. Since they are not determined by the dealer, they are not negotiable. Also, your MF of .0017 down from .0022 assumes a more than 1% decrease in the prevailing interest rates which will not occur over the next three months. Of course, that does not preclude some kind of promotional lease rate from Infiniti.

ursamajor

The Fed is expected to lower fed funds by .5 at their next meeting, so short-term rates should decline; they will not be raised in this economic environment.

Dealer pricing results from changing the variable factors of residual and cap. cost to achieve a target profit. If the new EX doesn't sustain its initial sales momentum (and although I probably will lease one, I don't think this is a home run by any means and has limited appeal, sort of like the former Lexus IS Sportcross), the dealer will improve the buyer terms through the only means available: the two variables mentioned, and Infiniti Financial Services will subsidize the MF with an incentive. I am willing to bet on this with a no-obligation order and will decide whether the deal offered upon delivery is competitive, or I'll pass on it. Audi has a 2009 A-4 coming out in September which looks outstanding, based upon early reports and photos; I can extend my present lease and check that one out.

FWIW, I have just about decided that the RunFlats in BMWs present potential problems I don't want to risk being subjected to--otherwise the 335xi was my first choice by a large margin.

chaosattractor

I work in finance. And I would bet my life savings that you will not see the Fed cut rates by 1% in only the next 3 months, although the Fed will most likely cut rates at their next meeting. Secondly, it is 100% wrong to imply that dealers manipulate the residual to come up with target profits. The residuals are long term estimates of the resale value of automobiles and as such, are determined by the supply and demand of the secondary market. It is not a variable that dealers change themselves; rather, they rely on third parties for that information. You will never find a respectable lease guide anywhere that tells you that the residual is something you should or can haggle over. Another way to look at it is a dealer that raises the residual (assuming that it could) just to make a lease, will find itself in a big hole, when it comes time to sell that vehicle once the lease is up.

qbrozen

Oh, I know the EX is smaller than the FX, but what I meant is I expected it to be much smaller than it really is due to all of the complaints I've read here. So my expectations were of a G35 hatchback. That's really not the case at all.

msu79gt82

I was very impressed and still interested even though its smaller than I'd like. One concern and a complaint. The right rear passenger seat belt got caught every time in the auto/power seat lift - hopefully this is a sample problem and not widespread.

Also I am very disappointed that the Luxe leather option with its Adaptive Front Headlights is only available with Wheat and Chestnut (my two avoid colors!) :confuse: :mad:

msu79gt82

When I traded my FX35 for my M35 I was not offered any Loyal Customer Discount? In fact I went to another Infinti dealer because the first one refused to deal at all :confuse:

msu79gt82

I have owned two MDX's since early 2001 and loved them (still have one); but am looking to downsize now that the kids are gone. My problem is that there are very few mid-size SUVs that appeal to me (I used to own an FX - close but no cigar). I love the interior styling of my M35 and eagerly watched the development of the EX - its everything that I'd hoped it would be except a little on the small size. I'll have to study research etc to see if it'll work.

msu79gt82

Different strokes for different folks I used to own an FX35 - didn't like it; it wasn't what I'd hoped it would be and my purpose/use for it changed as well. Bottom line I traded the FX for an M :shades:

But the EX appears to be everything I hoped the FX would be and if should fit the purpose/plan I have for it (although size is an issue; its on the small side )

ursamajor

It's a positive review. Neil is an excellent writer and speaks well of the balanced handling, performance, and superior interior. He notes that the price creeps up towards $ 45k with all options. He notes the meager rear seat room for those desiring something larger.

For my needs, the vehicle is just right, but I do have a problem with excessive fuel consumption. One of these years, I need to switch to hybrid or biodiesel and forget performance.

bonnemkl

Has anyone actually seen the Wheat cloth interior in a base level EX?

I have a base 2003 G35 sedan and its Willow cloth interior is attractive, durable, and very comfortable in the summer heat, but I'll be darned if I'll order a base EX35 without seeing the interior first. The dealers all say they'll never have one on the lot because they are special order only.

Does anybody have a base EX35 already, and if so, could you possibly post a photo of its interior?

I can live without a sunroof and heated seats, but never with a tacky interior! Please advise if you've seen one.

Thanks,
Ken

cap58

I bought a new EX - it is Scarlet Silver with Wheat interior. I previously owned an FX - white with beige interior. The wheat interior is more of a cream color compared to my FX's beige interior. I was also concerned and wanted to see the color first. It's very nice. I also got the wood trim and recommend it with this interior color.

I haven't seen any of the basemodels coming into the dealers - mine has everything except the new technology package. I'm guessing you will have to special order to get a base model only.

msu79gt82

"The dealers all say they'll never have one on the lot because they are special order only. "

I find it odd that a dealer would say that they'll never have one? Its one of the only two colors that the Luxe Leather upgrade is available on! Why have an upgrade option on a color you'll never get :confuse:

bonnemkl

Thanks Cap, but you misunderstood my post. If you have wood trim and everything but the tech package, then you have a Journey and it has a leather interior.

I was asking about the CLOTH interior in a base model. The dealers don't even have a picture, much less a fabric swatch.

I'm glad to hear the wheat leather looks good. I just don't think I can assume the same for the wheat cloth without seeing it.

By the way, the same dealers that can't show you a picture or a sample, want a $2000 non-refundable deposit if you order a base model EX. Covering their butts in case the fabric looks bad, wouldn't you say?

bonnemkl

Thanks MSU, but you missed the CLOTH part of my post also.

I'm sure dealers will have examples of EX Journeys with regular or Luxe wheat leather on their lots. What they're telling me is that they'll never have a base level EX unless a customer orders one, and even then you might have one day or less to go see it before the customer picks it up.

Infiniti clearly doesn't want anybody buying a base level EX. It's almost impossible to detect its existence in the brochure and it doesn't exist at all on the Infiniti website. I suspect they will drop the base model later this year, just like they dropped the base level G35 sedan very early in the '04 model year.

gwhelchel

I have the wheat leather EX loaded but without wood...Looks awesome and turns heads...I have the scarlet plat exterior...This is def a great vehicle....
I agree- the dealers would have no reason to have a base on inventory - why cheap out a luxury car...

qbrozen

Don't know if I'd call it "cheaping out." Some folks don't like leather. And some options are just superfluous. I don't care for a moonroof, for instance. I never use it. Yet its hard to find a luxo car without one. I still want a luxo car because I like good fit and finish, powerful engine, quiet ride, etc.

150mphclub

The sunroof/moonroof is always the deal buster for me. I don't want it, but "I have to take it", so I walk. At least the Caddy dealer will do a "delete sunroof" for me if I decide I want to order one.

izmirian

Bonnemkl,

From the documents that I found online, I learned that infiniti is not planning to deliver base models to the dealers. I think it's very stupid and it's a marketing play. They say the car starts from low thirties but that base model is not available anywhere. Maybe as a special order you can get one but who will wait for a special order from Japan. From the base model to the fully loaded which I was planning to get, there is a16K difference which is too much for this car. Acura however has the base model for rdx and very simple options and not a huge price difference between base and top model.

Anyways, I thought I can get an X5 instead of a fully loaded ex just by throwing in some more money. I just leased an X5 on 28 Dec for the same price that I would get an infiniti.Good luck with your quest on finding base EX35 in US.

charlesb

This is exactly what I was talking about when I commented on the original first drive article for this vehicle. The value equation just does not add up well with the EX35.

The reality for somebody looking at cars on the lot is that the cost is $ 10, 000 more for a station wagon (unless you buy into the crossover nonsense) version of a G35.

Lexus tried this, and failed, with the original IS300 wagon (nee Sportcross) and I suspect that this vehicle, especially with this money-grubbing packaging scheme play early on by Infiniti, is headed for the same fate: a market bomb.

With the tight back seat and the aversion to all things with even a vague whiff of wagon in this country, I'll be shocked if the lease deals aren't flowing once the backlog builds up on the lots.

qbrozen

interesting argument you've constructed.

If you mean someone walking into an Infiniti dealership looking for the cheapest MSRP they can find, then I kind of see your point. However, on one hand, the only Infiniti dealer within 25 miles of me shows a $6k difference between their cheapest G35 and cheapest EX35. The next closest dealer shows a $3800 difference. Second, I don't see why someone HAS to buy off the lot. I mean, if the dealer refuses to find what you want, then I suppose you have no choice but to walk. I guess they could let that happen. But, if it is as you say and they have a hard time moving the EX, then I think they will become more receptive to getting their hands on the vehicle you want. We'll see.

richqd

Given the final product that is on the market it will be a shocker if they don't start discounting in the very near future. They errored on the sizing of this vehicle from the front seat back. Blindfold me and guide me into the front seat and I would be liking the look (duh, blindfold removed), feel, components, but move me back to the rear seats and utility compartment area, not good. Not even much height for pursuit of utility, and that heavily sloped rear hatch didn't help. The timing of this vehicle entering this new market area was perfect for infiniti had they hit the total package. But now the competition is coming on with new offerings just a few months down the road and the question is will infiniti be able to re-enter with a more overall satisfying offering. I anxiously waited for two months for the ex to appear, then couldn't justify the lack of utility space and in certain instances when the rear seat needed to accomodate one or two, I didn't want to hear the complaints.

msu79gt82

The timing of this vehicle entering this new market area was perfect for infiniti had they hit the total package. But now the competition is coming on with new offerings just a few months down the road and the question is will infiniti be able to re-enter with a more overall satisfying offering.

Yep, I began looking for an RX350 size replacement for my MDX about a year ago and was initially very excited about the EX. But I am afraid that I will regret the very small "utility" part of this CUV, especially for the price. I am not in any particular hurry and will more than likely wait until late March early April and check out prices.

msu79gt82

One thing I have noted webwide is the lack of strong message board (forums) interest in this vehicle. I joined Edmunds back in early January 2001 while researching the new Acura MDX; the MDX boards were very fast paced; often having 10-15 messages posted during a hours lunch break. The EX boards can go days without a single post. In fact there is a "Lack of interest" thread, addressing this very topic, in a well-known Infiniti EX forum.

charlesb

I think that there exists a market for a sporty 2+2 CUV but no manufacturer has hit the home run, the target vehicle that will define that niche market, yet. Acura released the RDX, more of a four seater but pretty sporty by CUV standards, with grandiose plans to sell very large numbers and built them initially anticipating those sales, of course, the cheap leases and invoice (or below) sales were soon needed to clear the glut. Infiniti is slow rolling the loaded units to the "early adopter" who have been waiting for a vehicle of this type but the "U" in CUV is supposed to delivery a modicum of utility and I'm not sure that Nissan is close enough to the center of the market to pull the sales they likely think are there. Curious vehicle, but a sound strategy, imo.

bonnemkl

I view the EX35 as the solution to the only two minor complaints I've ever had in five years of owning a G35 sedan.

I've always wished for a split folding rear seat instead of a small pass-through, and while the G35's trunk is large, it's opening is not, due to the short rear deck length. Flat things, like suitcases, fit just fine, but roughly cubic shapes, such as a microwave or a window a/c, won't go through the opening even though they would fit in the trunk.

The EX35, which c'mon let's all admit it is a G35X station wagon, has a folding rear seat and a lift gate rear opening that eliminate both of my issues. Yes, I wish they hadn't shortened it and taken it out of the rear seat leg room, but it works for me.

g2memphis

"charlesb", "richqd" and "msu79" hit it on the head. I like the space for passangers and 'stuff'' in the RDX, but I like the technology and mechanics of the EX. There definitely is a market for a sporty 2+2 CUV, but the RDX isn't "sporty" and the "EX" is not a 2+2. I had been awaiting the EX35 since it was first announced and was sorely disappointed when I first saw and touched it in December. I am in no rush to trade in my 2004 FX35 and will wait until the 2009 FX37 is introduced in Geneva in March to see which direction I might take. :confuse:

qbrozen

and the "EX" is not a 2+2.

HUH? Then what would you call it? It seems most folks feel the backseat is too tight to call it anything else.

g2memphis

I meant it was not large enough for 2 full-size adults in the rear seats. Based on my sitting in it, it is more like a 2 + 2(3/4)! I guess I am just spoiled having driven a G35 for 2 years and a FX35 for 3.5 years and am used to actual room for 2+2 (even 2+3 in a pinch)! :shades:

qbrozen

OK. Fair enough. But, just so you know, a 2+2 is typically reserved for those vehicles that won't fit 2 full-sized adults in the back (Jag XK, Porsche 911, etc). If it can fit them, its a 4-seater.

msu79gt82

I had been awaiting the EX35 since it was first announced and was sorely disappointed when I first saw and touched it in December. I am in no rush to trade in my 2004 FX35 and will wait until the 2009 FX37 is introduced in Geneva in March to see which direction I might take.

I traded an '04 FX35 for an '06 M35. I felt like the FX was a little too "sporty" (i.e. stiff) and had very high hopes for the EX. I am just very surprised that the cargo area is as small as it is. Considering how many Lexus RX's are on the road, I can't help but think that there would be a clear demand for a sporty CUV with some realistic U. As it apperas to me the EX does almost everything right except the Utility part.

sjaieve

This is an interesting line of thought, I had not thought about this car in this way and the car was on my short list. I will try and test drive the car soon to see how big it is. I think Infiniti did a good job with the Luxe package though, something that they need to consider for the G35. One should never buy a car before reading these forums, I have learnt a lot since I started following this site. Another car to look out for is the Lexus version of the Toyota Venza. Thanks for thinking beyond the hype guys.

ursamajor

I like the vehicle, with the exception of the tight exit and entry in the back seat. I am very limber and athletic (for a middle-aged guy) and strectch regularly. I doubt that the average full-size adult over 50 could enter and exit without twisting or straining something. You certainly tend to hit the side post with your foot and must twist it 90 degrees upon exiting.

Nevertheless, I expect that this vehicle will lease for a monthly payment similar to the G35 and you'll see some infinti-tesimal (pun intended) money factors appearing soon, probably equating to APRs under 2.0%. Three years ago, I almost leased a 330Ci with a MF of .0008, 1.92% APR. I agree, this model won't be a big hit, although it's based upon a nice platform, handles welll, and is quite atractive.

ezee

read on another forum that a person in the NY area was able to lease the ex at $3300 below sticker. Fully loaded: Nav, Tech, Premium & Lux pkg(no wood) His payments are $615 a month with $3500 down and 15,000 miles. Aparently he went to 5 different dealers and one of them wanted $730 a month. Good luck to those looking to purchase or lease one.

zskylar

I am an EX leaser. I can echo this last post. Fully loaded EX (Nav, Tech, Premium & Lux pkg, wood) received $3500 discount. I am just under $600 a month for 36 months, 15K miles with 3500K down. Pretty ugly lease - but when I want something all judgement seems to go out the window. I'm in PA.

charlesb

Looking at Edmund's pricing information that $3300-off price is just slightly above invoice, which is about the best a savvy buyer will be able to do until Infiniti needs to start kicking in the dealer cash and rebates, which I consider inevitable.

The tightening (it could well get worse soon) luxury car market, in general, and four-dollar-a-gallon gasoline doesn't seem like the most conducive environment to introduce a 16-17 mpg CUV with a smallish rear seat.

carjim

If the rear seat and leg room is a factor that negatively impacts a lot of buyers, then what is it going to do to trade-in and resale prices?

I recognize this question can't be answered with specifics yet. The standard rule is, "you don't know what you paid for a vehicle until you sell it." I am pulling back on my plans to watch what develops in this area.

builderbob

Some observations from the heartland:

- Dealers have nothing but AWD on the lot
- Color seen most often: Scarlet Silver
- Colors least likely to be in stock: 1-Tidewater 2-Deep Currant
- Interior least likely to be in stock: Chestnut
- Best deal: $375 over invoice
- Infiniti is not accepting orders for base EX. Won't be for months. May never.

jrobe

They will be discounting this car soon. It sure is surprising how little interest there is here in this car compared to other new vehicles.

samiam_68

There's little interest in the EX because it serves virtually no purpose. Why would anyone buy the EX over a sporty sedan that handles better, gives better gas mileage, has more room in the back, and costs less? The EX will go the way of the Lexus IS SportCross - discontinued within 2-3 years.

infinitimn

I just received an email from a dealer I talked to at the beginning of the month announcing new lower lease payments on EX and FX. I'll post what I find out.

carjim

Has anyone else seen the Detroit Auto Show image of the Cadillac crossover that will replace the SRX? Yep, it has the coup-like top like the EX and will be built from the CTS.

I tend to agree with other posters that the EX will have a short life if the Caddy has better interior rear dimensions.

qbrozen

Why would anyone buy the EX over a sporty sedan that handles better, gives better gas mileage, has more room in the back, and costs less?

Well, 2 out of 4 ain't bad, I suppose.

If I compare to a 3-series, the EX costs less (comparing to 335 to get similar power) and offers far more utility.

sjaieve

I went to see the car at the dealership today, wow, Infiniti out did themselves here. This car fits perfectly with what I was looking for. Initially I was looking at the G, I could never get past the interior of the G. The fit and finish is really not that great, lots of hard plastic.On the other hand on the EX, the interior of this car is extraordinary, the fit and finish is first rate, not much hard plastic going around and the materials used are much better than the G. Obviously the EX lacks performance, but it would be ludacris to expect an SUV to perform like a sedan, although the EX would be as fast as the 08 CTS. When compared to most SUVs, this car performs much better than most of them. Granted its small, but that helps with fuel economy. I will test drive the car soon to see if it is smoother and quiter than the G, hopefully it wont have the same problem shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear that the G has, if the test drive goes well I will be a happy customer :shades:

charlesb

Why would anyone buy the EX over a sporty sedan that handles better, gives better gas mileage, has more room in the back, and costs less? The EX will go the way of the Lexus IS SportCross - discontinued within 2-3 years.

Well I've been making that argument since the Edmund's Review of this was posted quite a while back, specifically mentioning the failure of the SportCross, and now I'll play devils advocate. The truth is that lots of European anybodies make that decision, opting for the wagon, every day of the week. Wagons, like their van and SUV brethren, carry a stigma (perhaps mommy mobile?) in the United States.

Clearly, somebody in market research at the auto manufacturers is telling those companies to produce wagon-like crossover vehicles with dynamic characteristics that approximate a car as closely as possible at the expense of utility.

My guess is that the growth in "double income no kids" (aka DINKS) couples and, of course, the continued expansion of empty nesters, including quite a few well-heeled empty nesters, makes manufacturers salivate anticipating selling lucrative, niche market, shared platform "premium" vehicles that are more style/lifestyle statements than utility vehicles, at least, in any practical way.

As you, and I previously, mentioned the IS300 Sportcross was clearly a car that Toyota/Lexus thought would fill some kind of niche market and either failed in satisfying, or finding the customers in, that niche. Perhaps they misidentified the market. One could, quite easily, argue that Honda/Acura was taking aim at that same niche with the RDX and that too failed to find a market. Infiniti now has loaded and fired their shot at the luxury CUV/sportwagon market with the EX and, one would assume, given what we have seen thus far, failed to find those wealthy few who want a wagon-like CUV with limited utility. None of these vehicles had much in the way of advertising budget but such is life within niche markets...the customers almost have to seek you out.

I find it a dubious proposition that the brain trusts at all these mega-billion dollar corporations feel compelled by their insatiable desire for platform sharing to build sporty wagons just to squander some of the companies treasure. They, collectively, remain convinced that sales (and profits) are to be had in the sport luxury CUV market and only time will tell if they are correct.

Personally, I'm starting to believe that the market for truly sporty CUV/wagons is highly constricted by customer desires (some might argue pipe dreams) for increased efficiency, true manual transmissions (yes, they are still out there) and utility beyond the capacity of the vehicle type. Moreover, I firmly believe, that the first thing that most American CUV/wagan customers inclined toward vehicles in this niche are willing to sacrifice is sportiness.

alex_f

In Minneapolis they advertise a lease 39 months, 10K - $349/mo + 4500 down. I think it already dropped significantly from initial offers.

jaxs1

People will buy the EX anyway because it has hot styling and a plush interior. People buy the Lexus IS that has an even more cramped back seat.
The EX will not be a volume seller even by Infiniti standards, but there is nothing to stop people who have little need for rear sear room form buying it.
However, the BMW 3-series sedan's back seat is far from roomy and it is a volume seller for BMW anyway, but I think people will be more critical of EX because they expect more usable passenger space in a CUV.

jaxs1

The new 2009 Murano is very nice and has several of the new features of the EX (such as the 4 way cameras and the power up and down folding back seat)

.

richqd