2013 Infiniti JX 35 AWD Review By John Heilig

THE AUTO PAGE
By John Heilig

Model: 2013 Infiniti JX 35 AWD

Engine: 3.5-liter V6

Horsepower/Torque: 265 hp @ 6,400 rpm/248 lb.-ft. @4,400 rpm

Transmission: CVT

Wheelbase: 114.2 in.

Length x Width x Height: 196.4 x 77.2 x 67.8 in.

Tires: P235/55R20

Cargo: 15.8 cu. ft. (Behind third row)

Economy: 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway/19.4 mpg test

Fuel capacity: 19.5 gal.

Curb Weight: 4,419 lbs.

Sticker: $55,170 (includes $950 destination,$`12,070 in options)

The Bottom Line: The JX35, which is akin to the Nissan Pathfinder, runs rings around its sibling. It’s a nice driver, is comfortable, has decent handling (for its aspect ratio), and good power. Of course, it costs a bit more than the Pathfinder, but if you’re looking for luxury in an SUV, this might be the one.

You have to wonder about an Infiniti that doesn’t have an analog clock in the center of the dash. From Day 1, this has been a hallmark of Nissan’s luxury brand. Well, the JX35 doesn’t have the clock, but it doesn’t make it any less of an Infiniti.

As with all Infiniti’s, the JX35 is a nice driver with plenty of power. The3.5-liter V6 that gives the JX half of its name produces 265 horsepower, which is enough for the 4,419-pound JX. Power reaches the wheels through a CVT transmission with a manual mode.

Since this was an All-wheel drive version, and not 4WD, in the center console where the 4WD selector switch would be is an Infiniti Drive Mode Selector that allows the driver to choose among Sport, Snow and Eco modes.

Despite there being no analog clock, this is still an Infiniti and it has all the luxury features you would expect from the nameplate. For example, unlock the doors with the key fob and lights illuminate the door handles. You also get puddle lights that alert you to any surprises that may await you by your doors.

One of my favorite features is the Around View monitor with moving object detection. This is essentially a 360 degree top-down look at the JX to aid in parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. It also has a backup camera plus side traffic alerts to let you know if there’s something coming that may be out of your line of sight. In addition, there is a lane departure warning system that gives you a nudge if you wander out of the lane you’re in.

There’s a Bose Cabin Surround sound system that gave good fidelity, but I couldn’t get my bipod to work. Sirius XM just had to suffice.

In the center of the dash is a clear navigation/audio screen. The navigation side is easy to program through a rotating knob that you move to highlight letters or numbers and push to select.

The front seats are comfortable with good side support. They are heated and cooled. Between the seats is a deep center console. The flat rear seats are heated and offer excellent leg and knee room. The second row seats also move easily for third row access. Surprisingly, the third row seats are reasonably comfortable with decent leg room. Behind the third row is decent cargo capacity. Of course, the third and second row seats can be folded to increase cargo capacity to great proportions.

For all three rows of passengers there is a panoramic sun roof. There is a divider located roughly at the back of the front seats, but still, it’s a big roof. For rear seat entertainment, there are video screens at the back of the front seat headrests. There’s also a 120-volt outlet at the rear of the center console so rear seat passengers can charge up computers along the way.

While economics may dictate the choice between the Nissan Pathfinder and the InfinitiJX35, you certainly can’t go wrong with the Infiniti. It is, after all, an Infiniti, and as such it has luxury and a ton of amenities to keep you comfortable.

© 2013 The Auto Page Syndicate