INFINITI EX: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide

Last updated August 13, 2026

INFINITI EX

The INFINITI EX is a compact luxury SUV known for its coupe-like shape, strong V6 power, and driver-focused feel. It pairs a premium cabin and elevated seating position with useful hatchback access, but it is less spacious than many rivals.

Sold from 2008 through 2013, the EX consistently put style and driving feel ahead of maximum utility. It shared the quick responses and upscale character associated with INFINITI’s sport sedans while adding an SUV-like seating position and rear hatch. The EX35 became the more powerful EX37 for its final year, then the EX name changed to QX50 for 2014.

Strengths

  • The strong V6 gives the EX the lively performance that defines its sporty character.
  • Its quick responses make it feel closer to a sport sedan than a typical small SUV.
  • The cabin has a premium, driver-focused feel rather than a purely practical layout.
  • The coupe-like profile gives it a distinctive shape among compact luxury SUVs.
  • The rear hatch adds useful everyday flexibility even though overall cargo room is modest.

Who it's for

The EX suits a solo driver or couple who wants a small, upscale SUV that feels lively and easy to place on the road. It makes more sense for commuting and light everyday hauling than for regularly carrying adults in back or packing bulky family gear.

INFINITI EX lineup

The lineup centered on the standard EX and the better-equipped Journey. Pick the standard model for the core V6 performance and premium character without as many added comfort and convenience items. Step up to the Journey when those extra everyday amenities matter more. The EX35 name used through 2012 became EX37 in 2013 after the larger V6 arrived, while the base-versus-Journey structure remained familiar.

Which INFINITI EX trim should I buy?

INFINITI EX generations

From 2009 to 2013, the EX spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation — J50 arrived for 2008.

1st Generation — J50 (2008–2013)

The EX’s only generation used a compact, coupe-like crossover body with V6 power. It started with a 5-speed automatic, moved to a 7-speed automatic for 2011, and gained a larger 3.7-liter V6 for its final year under the EX name.

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1st Generation — J50 (2008–2013) INFINITI EX
2013Trim changes

A 3.7-liter V6 replaces the 3.5-liter engine, and the EX35 name changes to EX37. This is the final U.S. year before the model becomes the QX50.

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2012

HomeLink becomes standard on Journey models; the rest of the lineup carries over.

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2011

A 7-speed automatic replaces the 5-speed across the lineup. Standard equipment also gains 18-inch wheels and dual-zone automatic climate control.

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2010

Heated mirrors, automatic headlights, and a USB/iPod connection become standard.

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2009

Standard equipment expands with leather-appointed seats, a rearview camera, and roof rails.

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What's new by year

See what changed in a specific model year of the INFINITI EX.

2013 INFINITI EX2012 INFINITI EX2011 INFINITI EX2010 INFINITI EX2009 INFINITI EX

Frequently asked questions

Is the INFINITI EX an SUV or a hatchback?

It is a compact luxury crossover with four doors, seating for five, and a rear cargo area. Its low, coupe-like shape makes it feel more like a sporty hatchback than a tall, roomy SUV.

What is the INFINITI EX known for?

The EX is known for strong V6 power, quick responses, a driver-focused cabin, and a coupe-like shape. It favors driving feel and interior quality over maximum passenger and cargo room.

Is the INFINITI EX a hybrid?

No. The EX uses a gasoline V6 rather than a hybrid system. Earlier EX35 models have a 3.5-liter V6, while the later EX37 has a 3.7-liter V6.

What do EX35 and EX37 mean?

They identify the engine era. EX35 models use a 3.5-liter V6, while the EX37 name arrived with the 3.7-liter V6 near the end of the EX run. They are not two comfort grades sold side by side throughout the model's life.

Is the INFINITI EX roomy enough for a family?

It can suit a small family, but space is not its main strength. The EX seats five, yet its coupe-like body leaves less rear-seat and cargo room than roomier crossovers. It fits shoppers who value compact size and driving feel more than maximum space.

What model replaced the INFINITI EX?

The EX became the INFINITI QX50 for the 2014 U.S. model year. The name changed after the final U.S. EX model year, and the vehicle continued as part of the QX50 family.

Does the INFINITI EX have a manual transmission?

No. The EX uses an automatic transmission. Earlier examples have a five-speed automatic, while models from the later part of the run use a seven-speed automatic with a driver-controlled manual shift mode.

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