It looks like Nissan’s UK-built Qashqai SUV/hatchback crossover on steroids but luxury division Infiniti is describing its new EX as a ‘coupe crossover’.
Go deeper with GlobalData
The model, just launched at an event in California, will be part of a four-model range that will launch Infiniti across Europe from autumn 2008.
The EX, on sale first in the US at the end of this year, is an all-wheel drive crossover that slots in below the FX. A new take on the SUV, in other words.
Features include the claimed world production car debut of the advanced around view monitor (AVM) system, which uses four small cameras to give the driver a ‘top-down view’ of the outside of the vehicle when parking. The car also has a lane departure prevention (LDP) system and ‘scratch shield’ a ‘self-healing’ clear-coat paint designed to maintain its gloss-level over time.
The paint repairs fine scratches, such as fingernail scratches under door handles, restoring the EX35’s surface close to the original state. The process, which takes anywhere from one day to one week (depending on the surrounding temperature and the depth of the scratch), is accomplished through the use of a special highly elastic resin. This resin is combined with a conventional clear coat to increase the paint’s flexibility and strength by raising the resin density.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataThere’s no firm word on any or all of these for European-specification vehicles, nor has Nissan detailed the engine/transmission choice for this side of the pond.
“The EX35 is the perfect fusion of a luxury coupe and a sporty 4×4,” claimed Jim Wright, vice president of Infiniti Europe.
It’s 4,631mm long, 1,803mm wide and 1,589mm high giving it, Infiniti said, a more dynamic stance and a lower centre of gravity than most other 4x4s [SUVs].
US-market options include a hard disk navigation system with 9.3GB of music storage.
Other available technology includes Bluetooth hands-free phone system, intelligent key with push button ignition, rear view camera (available separately, or as part of the around view monitor system), front and rear parking sensors, intelligent cruise control and a Bose audio system with 11 speakers including 2 subwoofers, 6CD in-dash changer and iPod connectivity.
The interior is offered with cloth or leather upholstery.
“The EX35’s interior is all about driving pleasure and passenger comfort,” added Wright. “Like the exterior, it offers a coupe-like feel but surprising versatility – ideal for today’s active lifestyles.”
The EX’s FR-L platform is shared with the M, FX and G coupe and sedan models.
US-specification models have a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine (shared with the G35 sedan), rated at about 290 horsepower and five-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.
Infiniti Europe claims it is difficult to pinpoint any direct rivals for the EX as it is – arguably – the first of a new wave of coupe crossovers but suggests it might be compared with BMW’s X3 3.0si and Audi’s A4 3.2FSI quattro Avant (wagon), which gives you an idea of its size.
The EX will be first shown in Europe at Geneva next March and the brand will be launched across Europe, city by city, from autumn 2008 in a process that will take two years.
Four models will be available in Europe from launch: the G saloon and coupe, the EX and an FX successor to be unveiled next year. A replacement for the M-series will join the European range early in the next decade along with the option, on the M-, EX- and FX-series, of a V6 diesel.
Cadillac-like retailer deal for UK
