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What is it? The new 2008 EX35 is a compact, sporty, car-based SUV, slotted in size and price just below the FX. It will use Nissan¹s smooth 297-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. Customers can choose either rear- or all-wheel drive.
The EX is loaded with available high-tech features that include a keyless, push-button ignition, adaptive cruise control, a 9.3 GB hard drive for storing audio files, and a touch-screen navigation system that is voice activated and can receive real-time traffic information. A lane-departure-prevention system detects when the vehicle is leaving its lane without the turn signals activated. If the driver ignores audible and visible warning signals, the system will actively intervene, gently pulsing one or more brakes to help push the car back on course.
The EX35 will be available in two trim levels: base and Journey. Pricing will range from $31,300 for the base rear-wheel drive model to $36,250 for the Journey all-wheel drive version.
What is new or notable?
The EX35 features two innovative new technologies. One is the Around View Monitor (AVM) system, which is a 360-degree exterior camera system that allows a driver to see all sides of the vehicle at one time, which should be handy for tight parking situations. The system uses four cameras: one under each side mirror and one each on the front and rear. In addition to a conventional rear view that shows a wide area behind the vehicle, the dash display also gives the driver a top-down view that allows him to see any objects that are close to either bumper or either side of the vehicle.
Another new tech is what Infiniti calls Scratch Shield paint, which is a self-healing clearcoat that can automatically smooth out light scratches and swirl marks. It¹s claimed to maintain its gloss over the life of the vehicle.
CR's take: The EX35 will compete against the Acura RDX and BMW X3. The 360-degree camera system should be helpful, especially given the limited visibility imposed by the sloping roofline. Integrating the lane-departure and ESC systems to provide an active response is a step beyond the simple lane-departure warning system we tested on the Infiniti M sedan.
When will it be available? December 2007
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
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