There’s a saying that when momma’s not happy, no one is happy. That must have resonated with engineers and executives at Nissan, the parent company to Infiniti.
Nissan’s luxury brand has struggled to attract female buyers, especially the female heads of households. My tester for the week is targeted at that exact demographic.
But, after spending a week driving the Infiniti JX35, it’s evident that this 7-passenger crossover has mass appeal well beyond the soccer moms.
On looks alone, the JX35 broadens its reach. Those expecting the flamboyant styling of the G-series may be disappointed with the suburbia-friendly design of the JX35. But, it does still manage to give off an allure of luxury with a toned-down grille, gentle sloping angles, and then a sharp, sloping rear end. The third row windows have distinctive styling trimming around them, as if Infiniti wants to showcase one of the best features of this all-wheel drive crossover — flexible seating.
Inside, leather, wood and faux metal accents highlight a classy, luxurious interior. You expect this type of interior from a luxury brand and Infiniti delivers it perfectly. Front seating is comfortable, and the drive itself is quiet, with minimal road noise present.
As mentioned, the second and third-row seating options are what makes this vehicle out of the ordinary. Families with small children, especially those still in car seats, will appreciate a unique design feature where the second row seat can be moved far forward allowing wide access to the third row, without ever having to remove the car seat from its LATCH anchors. This feature may go unnoticed, but is something that is rarely offered.
And, as far as that third row goes, unlike many other similar crossovers, adults will be perfectly comfortable not only getting back there, but sitting down for long rides. Head and leg room are ample for all passengers within the JX35. Both second and third row seats even recline as an extra bonus.
Most vehicles in the Infiniti fleet are described with much enthusiasm, with words like exhilarating and exciting commonly used. However, when it comes to the JX35 it’s best to tone down the enthusiasm a little and say it drives nice and refined.
A 3.5-liter, V6 engine makes 265 horsepower. Not overpowered, not underpowered, just well-suited as a family vehicle. For Infiniti enthusiasts expecting more, they may be disappointed with the JX35. The continuously variable transmission is adequate, but seems to hold the power back at times.
Safety features are prevalent throughout this vehicle. A 360-degree camera system helps with parking. There’s also a Backup Collision Intervention system that will detect for a collision and apply the brake if necessary. Blind spot detectors are also a nice touch to this vehicle.
Fuel economy is average for the JX35. It has an EPA rating of 18 city and 23 highway. In a week’s worth of driving, I averaged 20 MPG. A drive mode selector presents options for standard, sport, snow and ECO modes. I drove mostly in standard mode, but tried the sport mode to find a punchier performance, and the ECO mode (as expected) was very reserved.
There is only one trim option for the JX35 with a base price of $41,550. Infiniti offers plenty of features and packages that cost extra. My tester had a multitude of extras including the Driver Assistance Package, illuminated kickplates, roof rails, tow package and Infiniti’s Premium Package, taking it to a total cost of $53,415.
With the Infiniti JX35, it’s not just momma who is happy. This is a crossover that will keep every member of the family satisfied.
Jimmy Dinsmore is the Wheels editor at the Dayton Daily News and may be reached at (937) 225-2115. Follow him on Twitter @wheelseditor