The 2009 Infiniti EX35 is a unique entry in the crossover market for many reasons. Based on the same FM platform as the Nissan 350Z, the EX35 has sportier roots than most crossover SUVs, with its standard 297-hp, 3.5-liter V6 and five-speed transmission. Couple these with standard RWD and optional AWD, and the EX35 continues to stand apart.

In fact, the Infiniti EX series set many “firsts,” including the first “Around View Monitor” in a production vehicle, a series of four cameras that provide a full 360-degree view of the outside of the car while parking. Also a first for the Infiniti EX is its “fluid finish” Scratch Shield, a paint that uses a clearcoat and elastic resin hybrid to heal shallow scratches by itself in a manner of days or even hours.

With two trim levels – Base and Journey – the EX35 gains several new standard features in 2009, including leather upholstery and a rearview camera for the Base trim, and dual-zone automatic climate controls, a 6-CD changer, and a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel for the Journey trim. The 3.5-liter V6 has ample power in all situations, with testers finding the “manumatic” mode for the automatic transmission even faster than the manual, a rare occurrence. Fuel economy isn’t spectacular, with 16/23 mpg in AWD guise, and 1 mpg more on both ends when set up as a RWD vehicle, but this comes from a vehicle with almost 300 hp and a Snow Mode that will lock the center differential for a true 50/50 power split.

Other features include satellite radio, traction control, a lane-departure warning system, adaptive cruise control, a navigation system, and a full digital information suite with a hard drive for the entertainment system. Power is standard throughout, including dual power front bucket seats as well as remote keyless access, entry, and start. The Journey trim also adds automatic headlights and a power sunroof, although the flashiest features are available only with the Premium, Navigation, and Technology optional packages.

The EX35 is a solid option in the crossover segment, although a luxury entry. It performs well, is extremely well equipped, and offers the kind of utility that supersedes some of its more posturing competition. It's rumored 2010’s EX35 will have several upgrades to the entertainment and navigation systems, such as a standard 2GB hard drive, real-time traffic and weather, and a USB input.