2009 Infiniti EX35

NEW FOR 2009:

- Standard Rear View Monitor

- Available Distance Control Assist and Intelligent Brake Assist

- New or reconfigured option packages

An all-new model for the 2008 model year, the Infiniti EX35 enters 2009 with new standard or available technology features. The new Distance Control Assist, which can be switched off if preferred, calculates the distance to vehicles ahead and issues visual, physical and audible feedback if the driver gets too close. The Intelligent Brake Assist warns the driver if there is risk of a collision with the vehicle ahead, and applies the brakes if it determines that a collision cannot be prevented.

New option packages include the Bose & Navigation Package; and Technology Package with Distance Control Assist, Intelligent Brake Assist, Lane Departure Prevention System, Lane Departure Warning System and Intelligent Cruise Control.

Although its shape and size are similar to the Nissan Rogue, the EX35 is not related; instead, it uses a platform derived from the Infiniti G sedan. It uses a 3.5-litre V6 with five-speed automatic transmission and is all-wheel drive, using Infiniti's ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split), also used on the company's M, FX and G models.

Features on the Luxury trim line include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, heated mirrors with driver's side puddle lamps, roof rack, rear view monitor, eight-way driver and four-way passenger power leather seats, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, illuminated vanity mirrors, trip computer, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input and XM satellite radio, cruise control, auto up/down front windows, and Intelligent Key with pushbutton start.

The Journey adds dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, power sunroof, headrest-integrated coat hanger, power tilt and telescopic wheel, six-CD/MP3 stereo, and maple wood trim.

The Bose & Navigation Package and Technology Package are available on the Journey trim line, as well as a Premium Package of 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive bi-xenon headlamps, two-position driver's memory, eight-way power passenger seat, garage door opener, and power-folding rear seat.

Powerful and sharp-handling, the EX35 is a great car to drive, with characteristics more often found in a sports sedan than in a compact SUV. Its front seats are roomy, but the rear seat is quite cramped, and larger passengers may end up with their knees stuck into the front seatbacks. Several option packages add a series of items, including a full-surround camera monitor and Bose stereo, but they can only be added to the upper-line Journey trim.