2013 Infiniti JX


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2013 Infiniti JX Delivers Inspired Style, Performance, Roominess and Innovation
- All-New Luxury Crossover Challenges Current Segment Conventions with Roomy 3-Row Seating, Luxurious Versatility and Advanced Technology Features -

The 2013 Infiniti JX will shake up the status quo when the innovative 7-passenger luxury crossover joins the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012. As a fresh, bold alternative to the many flavors of vanilla currently dominating the luxury crossover segment, the all-new Infiniti JX is designed to excel in the areas that luxury crossover buyers desire most - interior flexibility and roominess, safety, and advanced hospitality features. The JX offers real 3-row utility, plus all the premium features, performance and innovations that Infiniti has become known for worldwide.

"The all-new Infiniti JX embraces family customers in a way no luxury crossover has done before - recognizing their need to grow up, but without growing old," said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. "Responsibility should come as a reward, rather than as a restriction on the things and activities you enjoyed as a single person or a couple."

Key features of the 2013 Infiniti JX include:

- Emotive styling and craftsmanship, featuring the new Infiniti design language direction initiated with the Essence concept
- Segment-leading overall passenger volume
- Segment-leading rear cargo volume (3rd row seats folded, 2nd row seats in forward-most slide position)
- More 2nd and 3rd row legroom than a Cadillac Escalade
- Access to 3rd row without removing a 2nd row child seat
- Infiniti Connection with Google Calendar™, Drive Zone/Speed Alert and Infiniti Personal Assistant
- Around View™ Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection
- Extensive safety and security technologies, including available world's first Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) system
- Available Bose® Cabin Surround® 15-speaker sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and a new Acoustic Waveguide subwoofer

"Every element of the Infiniti JX is designed to connect the driver and passengers to the world, rather than shield them from it as many luxury crossovers try to do. Our goal is to heighten awareness of your surroundings, so you can get more out of every day," added Poore. "Saying 'no' to boring luxury starts right here, right now with the inspired design and advanced technology of the 2013 Infiniti JX."

A Bold New Expression of 7-Passenger Luxury

The demarcation line between the Infiniti JX and other 3-row luxury crossovers starts with the idea that 7-passenger seating should actually and easily welcome all seven passengers. Utilization of a flat platform floor not only enhances 3rd row roominess and provides a long 2nd row total adjustment of 5.5-inches fore and aft for versatile roominess and cargo carrying capacity, it also allows use of a more dramatic styling approach.

With a long wheelbase and short overhangs, as well as a low roofline that doesn't compromise interior headroom, the platform provides the benefits of a large family passenger vehicle without the usual exterior styling restrictions. The aerodynamic shape of the new JX, with a coefficient of drag of 0.34, not only enhances fuel economy but also adds to its emotive styling. A front underbody spoiler, integrated rear spoiler and rear tire deflectors also help contribute to its zero front and rear lift for enhanced road holding.

Combining modern design with a touch of warmth, the new JX exterior is highlighted by the dramatic, double-arch front grille/headlight shape, double-wave hood, and crescent-cut D-pillar and greenhouse design.

Automatic on/off High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with manual levelizers are standard, along with fog lights. Large LED taillights add a distinctive touch to the rear, while a standard power rear liftgate enhances utility.

The JX advances the Infiniti design language, sharing signature styling cues of the Infiniti Essence concept, yet interprets those elements in ways suitable to the needs of a family luxury crossover. It stands out without trying to be something it's not, with good visibility from every seat, easy entry to and exit from all rows and practical access to the cargo area.

Other JX exterior features include flat blade variable intermittent front windshield wipers, available rain-sensing front windshield wipers, rear window intermittent wiper and defroster with timer, power folding heated outside mirrors with available reverse tilt-down feature, front door handle courtesy lights, and UV-reducing solar glass and rear privacy glass.

A power sliding tinted glass moonroof with one-touch open/close, tilt feature and sliding sunshade is standard, while an available panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade adds an open, airy feeling for rear passengers. The special JX exterior color palette includes exclusive colors Emerald Graphite, Glacial Mist and Diamond Slate, along with Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian, Midnight Garnet and Moonlight White (colors that are available on other Infiniti models).

Unsurpassed Luxury and 2nd Row Flexibility

Beyond its stunning exterior, the new JX clearly sets a new standard for both space and hospitality. Equally important to active families is JX's unique flexibility, which starts with nearly six inches of 2nd row seat travel - allowing legroom and cargo space to be conveniently adjusted between the 2nd and 3rd rows as needed. The 3rd row isn't the typical penalty box either, with ample headroom and knee room for adults or children. And there are two more unexpected aspects of JX's 2nd and 3rd row design - access to the 3rd row is surprisingly easy due to the wide door openings and long forward slide of the 2nd row seat. Plus, the multi-mode 2nd row seat's unique forward movement function overcomes the typical problem of having to remove a 2nd row child seat for entry or exit.

The installed child seat moves forward with the 2nd row seat (40 percent side of 60/40 split-folding seat) without limiting 3rd row access. In addition, both 2nd and 3rd row seats are split folding (60/40 2nd row, 50/50 3rd row) and recline for greater occupant comfort.

"With the new JX, you are able to leave a child seat securely latched to the 2nd row while getting in or out of the 3rd row - just another example of the vehicle's inspired flexibility and versatility," added Poore. "It might seem like a small detail, unless you've ever tried to use a 3rd row in a vehicle with child seats, and then it's 'why didn't someone think of this before?'"

Beyond the practical innovations, the JX's interior design combines elegance and fine craftsmanship. Key design features include the signature driver-oriented cockpit, thin chrome accents, and an interior color palette that provides an elegant color harmony - Wheat, Graphite or Java leather appointments with Kasane Washi trim or available Maple trim accents.

Along with its wave-like flow, the JX instrument panel is highlighted by a new Infiniti Intelligent-View display in the center meter cluster, along with large, easy-to-read Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges, and standard 7-inch color vehicle information display.

Leather-appointed seating is standard, along with heated front seats with 8-way power driver's seat and 6-way power front passenger's seat. Climate-controlled front seats (heating and cooling) are optionally available, as well as heated 2nd row outboard seats and heated steering wheel. Also offered is a dual occupant memory system for the driver's seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors. An Enhanced Intelligent Key that stores an occupant memory position and last-used audio, climate control and navigation settings is also available (an Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition is standard). Keeping all occupants comfortable regardless of the temperature outside are a Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control system with microfilter, rear-seat heater ducts under the 1st and 2nd row seats, and rear console-mounted and 3rd row side trim air vents.

Available as part of the Deluxe Touring Package is an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster™ air purifier, Grape Polyphenol filter and auto recirculation.

Other interior comfort and convenience items include RearView Monitor®, sequential welcome lighting illuminated entry system, eight cupholders and six bottle holders, front and 2nd row armrests with storage, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, USB Connection Port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), power windows with one-touch up/down with auto-reverse feature, power door locks with automatic locking feature, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and much more.

A Connection with a Human Touch

The 2013 Infiniti JX also offer technologies designed to make owners' lives a bit easier and more efficient, such as a 15-speaker Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system with Acoustic Waveguide bass technology and an innovative Infiniti Connection telematics system that can provide navigation guidance to appointments and automatically synch the owner's schedule through Google Calendar™.

The Infiniti JX is the first vehicle in the lineup to offer Infiniti ConnectionTM and Infiniti Connection PlusTM services, which will be added to other Infiniti navigation-equipped models in the near future. Infiniti Connection services include 24-hour Automatic Crash Notification, Emergency Call, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, stolen vehicle reporting, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Alarm Notification, Maintenance Alert, Scheduled Maintenance Notification and My Schedule (via Google Calendar™).

The system also allows owners to set up Drive Zone boundaries and Speed Alert, which parents will find useful in monitoring young drivers' vehicle usage. Infiniti Connection will send a notification via text, e-mail or phone if the boundary has been crossed or the speed exceeded. In addition, owners can route road trips with a Journey Planner and personalize news, sports and stock reports via Mobile Information Services. Both Infiniti Connection and Infiniti Connection Plus are included complimentary for the first year of ownership.

And, like all current Infiniti new model purchases, the new JX will also feature the Infiniti Personal Assistant, Infiniti's personal concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants. The Infiniti Personal Assistant benefit is offered free-of-charge for four years with every 2012 Infiniti. It allows owners to make reservations, get directions, find points of interest, make dinner reservations, access gift services, answer trivia questions, and receive a wide variety of other services at the touch of a button from inside the vehicle or through the owner's mobile or home phone. On vehicles equipped with Infiniti Connection, owners can have their Infiniti Personal Assistant find a restaurant, make the reservation, and have directions sent directly to their JX's Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System.

"We believe the JX's special combination of connected services adds convenience and confidence - and is completely flexible depending on the situation, task, request or just for times when you'd rather have a human connection instead of an electronic one," said Poore. "And for parents with teenage drivers, the ability to set boundaries or maximum speeds through the Drive Zone/Speed Alert function can be priceless."

The World's Only Backup Collision Intervention

The Infiniti JX continues Infiniti's tradition of developing world's first technologies, adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), to the currently available Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system.

With this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing vehicles and objects behind the JX and, if necessary, the system can automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision.

"This innovative Backup Collision Intervention system can detect vehicles approaching from either side when you back up. If a vehicle appears to be entering your path, it provides three layers of warning - visual, audio and gas pedal force feedback - and ultimately can apply brake pressure to help you avoid a collision if you don't take action yourself," said Poore. "It's just one of many 'tomorrow's technologies' that Infiniti is proud to lead the industry on today, and one of the many ways Infiniti sees the world differently."

Another advanced system utilized as part of the all-around protection philosophy is the Around View™ Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD). Building on the capabilities of the AVM system, which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the JX, the new MOD function helps enhance the driver's situational awareness by providing visual and audible warnings (front or back range object detection) if the system detects moving objects (such as anther vehicle) within the displayed image in situations such as when pulling out of a parking space. Using sophisticated image processing technology, the system detects moving objects within the "top view" (when the vehicle is in Park). When starting off or backing up, it detects moving objects crossing within the front or rear views.

The addition of BCI is the latest of nine technologies that comprise the "All-around Safety Shield" of the new JX. Other available technology includes both Infiniti's Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. The LDW and LDP systems use a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle, calculate its position relative to those lane markers and help warn the driver of a potential unintended lane departure with a visual indicator and audible buzzer. If the driver does not return the vehicle back toward the center of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver with a gentle application of the brakes on the opposite side of the drift.

A Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system is also available. It illuminates an indicator light if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then activates the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible warning sounds. In addition, the available Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system provides selective braking if the vehicle approaches an adjacent lane while another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area to help the driver return the vehicle back toward the center of the lane of travel. (BSI only activates if another vehicle is detected and the driver uses a turn signal in that direction.)

The new JX also offers an advanced Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), which, using a combination of laser sensors, throttle and brake actuators and the JX's braking system, measures the distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to help maintain a pre-selected following distance.

Distance Control Assist (DCA), which intuitively prompts the driver to release the throttle and applies the brakes in slowing traffic, is also offered - along with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and front Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

The Infiniti JX's extensive list of standard safety features includes an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for outboard occupant head protection for all three rows; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, load limiters and seat belt reminder; 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants (including center position); LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and steel side-door guard beams.

The standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) includes an individual tire pressure display and Tire Inflation Indicator. Maintaining proper tire pressure helps to maintain handling performance, achieve good fuel economy and long tire life. The Tire Inflation Indicator provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge. While the owner inflates the tire, the hazard lights flash letting the customer know to continue filling the tire. When the tire reaches the appropriate pressure, the horn will sound letting the owner know to stop filling the tire. Drivers can also monitor individual tire pressures from the interior display.

The Infiniti JX also offers a Remote Engine Start System, which allows the owner the option of starting the JX remotely using the remote keyless entry system. The system is ideal for warming or cooling the interior, prior to driving, as desired.

A Powerful and Efficient Drivetrain

Offered in both front-wheel drive and with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the JX addresses the growing desire among luxury crossover drivers to have both responsive performance and good fuel efficiency.

The standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6 is mated to a sport-tuned Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to provide high responsiveness and seamless, efficient shifting feel - the first Infiniti to utilize a fuel-efficient CVT. The transmission can mimic a step transmission when the Sport mode of the Infiniti drive selector is engaged. The CVT design also features a wide gear ratio and low friction design.

The engine is rated at 265 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. The design includes a variable induction control system to improve volumetric efficiency at low and middle speed ranges, while an efficient belt layout improves maintenance and fuel economy. Fuel economy is expected to be rated at 23 mpg Highway, 17 mpg City and a real-world 19 mpg Combined - while still offering the power to carry a full load or passengers and cargo.

"While many 'people movers' drive more like a van or bus, we heard from potential buyers that they didn't want to give up the driving feel of their previous sports sedans just because they have growing families," explained Poore. "For the JX, we again focused on applying advanced technology, such as the sport CVT, to meet the demand for better fuel economy without sacrificing driving pleasure."

Another welcome feature of the new JX is the Infiniti Drive Mode Selector, technology exclusive to Infiniti vehicles. Using a rotary switch mounted in the center console, the driver can choose between four drive modes - Standard, Sport, Eco and Snow - depending on road and climate conditions. The system varies throttle response and shift schedules to optimize performance.

Responsive handling and flat ride comfort is provided by an independent strut front and multi-link rear suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars - which combine with the high stiffness/low vibration sensitivity body to help create a quiet, comfortable interior environment for all occupant. Linear, easy-to-operate steering comes from the vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering system.

The available Active Trace Control system utilizes the JX's standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help improve cornering feel, such as at freeway speeds, by automatically applying the brakes or smoothing engine torque characteristics while accelerating.

The JX's braking system is a 4-wheel vented disc design with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

Stylish 18-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/65R18 T-rated all-season tires are standard on every JX, with 20-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 H-rated all-season tires available. Polished 20-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels are also available.

Choose to Be Inspired

The all-new Infiniti JX is offered in two models, the JX35 FWD and JX35 AWD and with five available equipment packages - allowing customers to custom-equip their vehicles to precisely meet their family driving and budget needs.

The Premium Package includes an Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with 8-inch WVGA color touch-screen display, Infiniti Voice Recognition, XM NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic Information, XM NavWeather™ with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast (XM subscription required, sold separately) and Zagat Survey Restaurant Guide, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, Infiniti Connection, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and front and rear sonar sensors, and Bose 13-speaker Premium sound system with Acoustic Waveguide bass technology

The Premium Package also includes a dual occupant memory system front driver's seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, entry/exit assist for driver's seat and steering wheel, Enhanced Intelligent Key, outside mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature, Maple interior accents and auto-dimming inside mirror with HomeLink Universal Transceiver. The Deluxe Touring Package adds Bose Cabin Surround 15-speaker sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and Acoustic Waveguide bass technology, 20-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 tires, panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade, Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with auto recirculation, Plasmacluster™ air purifier and Grape Polyphenol Filter, climate-controlled front seats, and heated 2nd row outboard seats.

The Theater Package includes dual 7-inch color monitors, two wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary audio/video input jacks, 120V power outlet and rear headphone jacks with volume control.

Also offered is the Driver Assistance Package with Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system, Distance Control Assistance (DCA), Active Trace Control, Eco Pedal, heated steering wheel and remote engine start.

Finally, the Technology Package includes all of the features of the Driver Assistance Package, as well as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems, Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system and front Pre-Crash Seatbelts.

"The all-new 2013 Infiniti JX, as Infiniti's first venture into the 3-row luxury crossover segment, is true to both the Infiniti brand and to Infiniti design," concluded Poore. "Infiniti has always been about standing out from the crowd, combining intelligent technology, refined performance, and sophisticated craftsmanship. That's exactly what this new JX achieves."



- 2013 Infiniti JX crosses over into the big leagues
 
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2013 Infiniti JX35 AWD Full Test









Infiniti has a gender problem. A severe gender problem. For the most part, its products are bought by guys, while all the girls are across the street buying Acuras and Lexuses. If Infiniti is going to grow, it needs to attract more women to the brand. That's where the all-new 2013 Infiniti JX comes in. It's for the ladies. This is the first Infiniti in a long while that puts comfort and practicality way ahead of performance and fun to drive on its list of attributes. That makes it the perfect counterpoint to Infiniti's other crossovers, like the five-seat FX, which is more about performance than utility, and the full-size QX that packs enough V8 power to pull a small yacht. Compared to those beasts, the JX is a very different animal. With its comfortable ride, three rows of seats and strong fuel mileage, the JX is also a real alternative to upper-middle-class mom favorites like the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350.

Nissan Roots

It's based on the architecture of Nissan's Murano, which makes this the first front-wheel-drive Infiniti since the Maxima-based I35 sedan mercifully hit the bricks in 2004. Our test car was all-wheel drive, which adds $1,100 to the bottom line and 139 pounds of bulk. But the JX, which is on sale now, is more than just a Murano swathed in Infiniti luxury and with a third-row seat. In fact, the Murano and JX are sized quite differently. With its 114.2 inches wheelbase, the JX puts down a considerably larger footprint than the Murano by a full 3 inches. And to fit that proper third-row seat, the JX dwarfs its Murano donor by some 6.5 inches in overall length, 196.4 versus 189.9 inches, while the JX is also a bit over 3 inches wider. The CVT wasn't chosen for throw-you-into-the-seatback acceleration. Fact is, the JX will actually have more in common with the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder, which will also be Murano-based, but will share its dimensions and seating capacity with the JX. It was introduced at the Detroit auto show in concept form and will hit dealers by the end of this year.

Inside Matters

Plop yourself onto the JX's firm but comfortable front seat (easy to do, by the way, with its near-perfect step-in height), and you're ensconced in a well-designed and well-made Infiniti cabin. The center stack and center console appear to be ripped right from the M sedan...and that's a good thing. The Infiniti controller knob makes navigating around the display screen easy, and we like the way the whole design waterfalls off the dash. The interior has a good mixture of leather and wood and metal, although it's a bit surprising that the dash, while nicely grained, is hard plastic. But most controls have a well-damped feel. There's quality here. There's also a ton of room, 149.8 cubic feet, in fact, which Infiniti says is best-in-class interior volume. And with that room comes one of the most usable third-row seats we've yet to encounter in a crossover. There's actually enough headroom for sub-6-foot adults, although the seat's low placement means that your knees are up into your chest a bit, eliminating any long stints back there. The second row can also slide fore and aft a full 5.5 inches to open up even more room in the third row. Both the second- and third-row seatbacks also recline, so Infiniti covered all the bases. If you have young kids, you'll appreciate the thought that went into the way the second-row seats tilt and slide forward as well. It not only allows adults to hop in the third row without the need for the usual contortionist maneuvers, it also gives access to the third row without your having to unlatch a child seat from the second row.

Safety Isn't Free

Just about every safety feature you can think of is available on the JX35 — for a price. This includes the world's first back-up collision intervention system, which will automatically hit the brakes to avoid a collision when the JX is in reverse. There's also the totally cool Around View Monitor, which shows a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the JX on the dash's 8-inch screen and detects (and audibly warns) the driver of moving objects within the displayed image. Want more? Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Distance Control Assist (applies brakes in slowing traffic if you don't), Blind Spot Warning, Blind Spot Intervention, Forward Collision Warning and an intelligent cruise control are all available optionally. Soon, these cars won't even need us; they'll just drive themselves. The gadgets add up, though, as our fully loaded JX35 AWD was sporting an as-tested price of $54,800.

VQ Yes, CVT No

Like the Murano, the JX35 uses Nissan's VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 with variable intake timing, putting out 265 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 248 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. While we can't fault Infiniti's engine choice, as the VQ V6 puts out enough smooth power to adequately move this 4,537-pounder in most situations, we can fault Infiniti for borrowing the Murano's continuously variable transmission (CVT). Although it works well enough for some people, the CVT doesn't have the level of refinement you would expect from a vehicle in this class. We suspect that Infiniti used the CVT to deliver more competitive fuel economy numbers. In that respect, the CVT makes sense, as the EPA rates the JX35 AWD at 18 city/23 highway/20 combined mpg (the front-drive model returns 18 city/24 highway/21 combined). Acura's MDX is rated at 16/21/18, while the Lexus RX 350 AWD comes in at 18/24/20. We noted observed mileage of 17.8 mpg during our time with the JX35 AWD. That fuel mileage comes at the expense of performance. Straight-line testing at the track certainly proved the CVT wasn't chosen for throw-you-into-the-seatback acceleration. The JX could only muster zero to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds (8.0 seconds with a 1-foot rollout like at a drag strip). For comparison, the last 2011 Acura MDX we tested hit 60 in 7.3 seconds and the 2011 Lexus RX 350 AWD took just 7.1 seconds. So the performance isn't really there, despite an Infiniti exec trying to spin us. "We didn't just want to build a school bus," he said. "We wanted to build an Infiniti."

Rolls Like a Spanish Galleon

His words overstate the JX's agility as well. One run through the slalom and a couple of points become obvious. First, the JX is all about a plush, quiet ride. Conversely, it plows the front end almost as soon as you bend it into any kind of a turn, and the steering is overboosted and rather unfeeling. The other problem (specific to the slalom test) is the stability control's low intervention point, at which time it stabs the brakes alarmingly. Worse, it can't be fully defeated. As such, the JX could only manage a fairly pathetic 58.9 mph around the cones. Did we notice the ESC intervention in real-world driving? Not once. The inordinate amount of body roll plus low-grip Bridgestone Dueler H/P Sport all-season tires, size 235/55R20 at all four corners, accounted for a skid pad result of just 0.78g. So basically, the JX is about what most people would expect from a crossover in this category: a compliant, comfortable ride and nothing more.

The Mainstream Infiniti

For enthusiasts used to Infiniti's performance-oriented vehicles, it'll be hard to muster much excitement for the JX. This is justified. The JX is a sharp left turn for Infiniti, which has been building cars and crossovers almost exclusively for enthusiasts since the G35 hit dealers a decade ago. But times change and brands evolve. And the JX is going to light up Infiniti's sales charts like an M56 sedan lights up its rear tires. No, it's not a "driver's" car. But the JX, with its clever rear seat design, supremely comfortable interior and cool safety technology, is perfectly aimed at the heart of the luxury crossover segment. And its starting price is right where it needs to be. At $41,400 (including $950 destination) for the front-wheel-drive JX35, and $42,500 for the all-wheel-drive version we tested, the seven-passenger JX has a value story to tell. Remember, it's larger than the MDX ($43,815), and the RX ($41,350 with AWD) only seats five.

America's moms will come

- 2013 Infiniti JX35 AWD Full Test and Video
 

Nissan

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. is a Japanese multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. Founded in 1933, the company sells its vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands, and formerly the Datsun brand, with in-house performance tuning products (including cars) under the Nismo and Autech brands. Infiniti, its luxury vehicle division, officially started selling vehicles on November 8, 1989, in North America.
Official websites: Nissan, Infiniti

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