
Just in time for the start of baseball season, Infiniti is coming out swinging for the center of the luxury crossover market with the new 2013 JX35. Available in front or all-wheel-drive format, the 7-passenger JX35 is filling a noticeable niche in Infiniti’s lineup. It’s sized between the brand’s smaller and sportier FX crossover, and the large luxury-laden QX56 sport-ute. The exterior styling of the JX35 borrows more from the FX, thankfully, since the massive chrome grille and portholes of the QX56 would look pretty strange on on a smaller crossover – I’m not convinced they work on the larger QX56, to be honest.

2013 Infiniti JX35
Infiniti wants the FX35 to make a subtle styling statement, with more emphasis being placed on cabin room and comfort features, versus outlandish looks and fancy packaging. Not that the FX35 is a slouch, its all-aluminum DOHC 3.5-liter V-6 engine offers 265 bhp at 6400 rpm, along with 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. Straight-line performance is smooth and steady, though not what we’d call rapid – at the time of our test drive Infiniti had not released any official 0 to 60 mph times. With more than 4200 lbs. to haul (in the slightly lighter front-wheel-drive model) the JX35 powertrain has its work cut out for it.

2013 Infiniti JX35
On the Road
Infiniti isn’t trying to reinvent the crossover segment, the Japanese luxury brand wants the JX35 to be a volume seller, and the point is driven home when you’re behind the wheel. As we’ve already noted, there is adequate power for most driving situations, the 3.5-liter V-6 is responsive and smooth, and engine noise is minimal. The ride and handling balance is tuned for everyday comfort, the independent strut arrangement up front and multilink arrangement at the rear kept the JX35 nicely controlled. Speed-sensitive steering allows for easy positioning of the JX35 at city speeds, though more feedback at higher speeds would be nice. Then again, in this market segment, Lotus-like handling isn’t a high priority.

2013 Infiniti JX35