The shape of Infiniti’s latest contribution to the crossover vehicle market, the EX, sets the intended mood for drivers. With a lightly arcing roofline that blends into an oval back end, it evokes the soft contours of an egg. And within that shape, it offers all the soothing comforts of an egg-like environment.
“It’s the best of everything,” said Shaun Hicks, sales manager at Sheehy Infiniti of Annapolis, who notes that the interior and ride are what distinguish the EX.
The interior has been carefully designed, said Hicks, to maximize a sense of luxury. Leather trimmed upholstery comes standard for both rows, including the power-folding rear seat, and an instrument panel, carefully angled as if a piano keyboard, maximizes accessibility. Standard extras: front and back sonar system, and a power moonroof that glides open and closed with a single touch.
The aluminum 3.5-liter V-6 engine contributes almost 300 horsepower, controlled by a five-speed automatic when the driver wants to kick back – or via manual shift mode if he wants to take the reins. Alloy wheels support 17-inch touring tires across a wheelbase of 110 inches.
An extra $1,950 technology package slaps on even more features: intelligent cruise control, a Lane Departure Warning system that warns when the lulled driver drifts near a white lane line, and an Infiniti exclusive Around View Monitor that adds front and side views to the more common backup camera for 360 views.
The list continues, ad infinitum: Intelligent Key with push-button ignition, tilt/telescoping steering column (with leather-wrapped wheel equipped with cruise and audio controls), temperature control with microfiltration, rear heat and AC vents, power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support, six speaker audio, LED taillights, and fog lights.
All of this is encased within the standard “Scratch Shield” paint, a self-healing resin that uses absorbed heat to even out light imperfections.
We haven’t even gotten to the additional premium and navigation packages. And on and on.
It’s a compact luxury SUV, but Dan Matysek, sales manager of JBA Infiniti of Ellicott City, uses the phrase “performance crossover” to define a vehicle that marries the convenience of a utility with the handling of a sports car.
The result of all this no-gadget-spared accumulation of technological detail: a sense of embryonic security and control. The car as cocoon.
“It’s gotten to the public,” Matysek said of the 2008 model. “It’s not vehicle that sits on the lot very long.”
The 2009 edition of Infiniti’s egg-mobile will be hatched in the spring.
2009 Infiniti EX35 (Specs Box)
Engine: aluminum, 297-horsepower, 3.5 liter V-6 with variable valve timing
Transmission: five-speed automatic with manual shift mode
Fuel Economy: 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: from $36,315
