New York Preview: Infiniti EX Concept

Does Infiniti really need a third SUV? It doesn't matter, because it's going to build one anyway. Making its world debut at the 2007 New York Auto Show is the Infiniti EX concept, a precursor to the five-passenger 2008 Infiniti EX which goes on sale later this year.

Riding on a 112-inch wheelbase, the EX concept uses the same FM platform as Infiniti's G, M and FX models. Infiniti didn't reveal anything specific about the drivetrain, but it did say the EX concept is outfitted with a V6 power plant, five-speed automatic transmission, speed-sensitive power-assisted steering, and four-wheel vented disc brakes with ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA). In other words, it's a G35 sedan only taller.

[Source: Inside Line: Edmunds]

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Infiniti did note one change from the G35 sedan's layout. The rear shock absorbers have been moved lower to make way for improved cargo capacity. Infiniti didn't say how much cargo capacity there is, so we'll assume it's average for the class. All-wheel drive is also on the concept's spec sheet, although production models will most likely offer a rear-wheel-drive option. The whole package sits on 19-inch seven-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 245/55R19 tires.

Interior appointments include plenty of leather and aluminum-alloy trim and an ambient lighting system that includes indirect headrest illumination. High-contrast gauges with violet-color illumination, an electric soft-touch shifter system, plus a large leather-appointed center console box make things easy on the driver. And a wide LCD monitor and signature Infiniti analog clock on the dash offer all of the necessary info. The advanced audio system includes aluminum speaker finishers which match the door-side trim.

One item that won't make production is the unique liquid crystal glass roof panel. It can change from transparent to translucent at the flick of a switch. The EX concept does introduce two new advanced technologies that will make it to production. The new Around View Monitor (AVM) system uses front, side and rear-mounted cameras to minimize blind spots during parking, while the Land Departure Prevention (LDP) system uses Infiniti's Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to assist drivers if the vehicle accidentally begins to drift from its lane.

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