Cars.com Reviews the 2009 Infiniti EX35

The first thing Cars.com reviewer Kelsey Mays wants to point out about the 2009 Infiniti EX35 is it makes for a fun drive. Crossovers have an advantage because they blend a superior driving experience with the utility of a standard SUV, right? This is where Mays says, “Hold on.” It may be that the EX35 sacrifices too much to achieve that pleasant drive. Read his full review to find out where he stands in this debate and how the EX35 may or may not fit your lifestyle.

2009 Infiniti EX35 Review

2009|Infiniti|EX35

Cars.com Podcast: Two Hatches, One Podcast

This week, Cars.com editors Mike Hanley, Kelsey Mays and Joe Wiesenfelder examine two cars with a rear hatch that haven’t taken the auto world by storm. Find out why the new 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback and the 2009 Infiniti EX35 haven’t warmed the hearts of our staff.

You can download the podcast via iTunes here or listen to it in your browser here.

2010|Mitsubishi|Lancer

2009|Infiniti|EX

Yes, There is a Use for Infiniti's Around View Monitor

When it first debuted I thought Infiniti’s Around View Monitor was a good idea, especially for my tight parking space off of a Chicago alley. However, for the typical suburbanite with a garage I figured it would be a bit useless. I recently moved to the suburbs — two-car garage and everything — and now I have a really narrow driveway. It is so narrow that the wife and I have driven off it on occasion. Now I know that the Around View Monitor has its place in the burbs, too.

Our driveway navigation skills are improving, but driving the 2009 Infiniti EX35 for a night reminded me just how good the Around View Monitor can be. The mix of overhead and front camera angles with the proximity alert got me to and from my garage without even looking up from the LCD screen.

On the 2010 model, the monitor is part of the $2,150 option package, which is not a small amount of money. But at least it’s part of a more popular package than the $2,250 Technology Package. which includes a lane departure warning, forward collision warning systems and other safety features many drivers may not want.

2009|Infiniti|EX35

2010 Infiniti EX35 Prices Unchanged, More Content

Infiniti’s model year continues to roll over for 2010 with the new EX35 on sale today. Prices remain unchanged from the 2009 model — starting at $33,800 — but there are some additions to standard and optional content. While we find the EX’s interior to be a bit cramped, it’s an upscale, capable vehicle that’s always seemed like a bargain in the segment. However, the EX35 hasn’t proven a big seller for Infiniti.

Standard equipment on all EX35 models now includes heated side mirrors, automatic headlights and an iPod/USB port.

Changes to option packages include the addition of Bluetooth streaming audio, XM NavWeather and a Zagat guide to the Navigation Package.

Trim level pricing is below, however, option package prices are not available at this time. If you’re interested in getting a 2009, Nissan is offering 0% financing for 36 months or 2.9% financing for 72 months; both offers run through Sept 30. 

2009 Infiniti EX35 Gets More Equipment, Higher Price

Infiniti has decided to up the standard equipment level in its EX35 crossover to include leather seats, roof rails and a rearview monitor. That also bumps the starting price to $33,800 from $31,900. The base model is still rear-wheel drive, and all EX35s feature the same 297-hp V-6 engine. The 2009s go on sale starting today.

All-wheel-drive models now start at $35,200, and better-equipped Journey models start at $36,000. The Journey trim adds a standard six-disc CD changer, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and dual-zone climate control. There are a number of option packages that are also more condensed. We list them below.

The EX hasn't set the world on fire in terms of sales. Through April, sales are down 22.7% compared to the same time last year, and they’re down 43.3% in April alone. In Infiniti’s lineup, it only does better in terms of sales than the M sedan and QX56 SUV.

Check out our review of the 2008 EX35 here.