Infiniti JX review

A plush, quiet, and roomy interior helps place the new JX among the serious players in the luxury SUV category and fills a gaping hole in Infiniti's lineup.

Scoring below only the Acura MDX and Lexus RX, this three-row crossover is powered by a smooth 265-hp, V6 engine mated to a continuously variable transmission. Our all-wheel-drive JX returned 19 mpg overall on premium fuel, slightly above par for the category.

But don't expect the typical sporty Infiniti driving experience. Driving the JX feels like you're herding an even larger SUV. Most competitors have it beat for agility, particularly its most direct rival, the MDX.

Comprehensive standard equipment makes the JX's base price inviting, but options packages can quickly add up. Some options are innovative, however. A surround-view camera system displays a bird's-eye view around the car when parking, an advantage given the impeded rear view. And the JX can brake automatically when reversing to avoid hitting something behind it.

We expect above-average reliability based on the Nissan Murano, which uses the same platform and powertrain as the JX.

Vague, slow steering and pronounced body lean contribute to a lumbering feeling in corners. And the JX managed only a low speed through our avoidance maneuver. But electronic stability control kicked in on cue and kept it on course.

A soft suspension causes some rocking when the JX gets up to speed. But the ride is quite comfortable overall, and impacts are well muted. Only small amounts of wind, road, and engine noise enter the cabin.

The 3.5-liter V6 and CVT combo is the only powertrain available. The CVT works well but sometimes holds engine revs high. Although the JX is 20 to 30 horsepower below most rivals, the engine pulls well. But rivals typically tow 5,000 pounds. The JX's 3,500-pound capacity seems wimpy by comparison. Front-wheel drive is standard.

The JX's spacious, well-finished, and user-friendly interior is a high point. Padded surfaces, wood accents, and nicely detailed leather seats create a welcoming interior. Drivers will find plenty of room overall, and the standard power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel is helpful.

The front seats are big and comfortable, but some may find them a bit too soft. Adjustable lumbar support is available only as an option. The second row is roomy for three, but the low, short cushion provides scant thigh support. Getting to the third row is relatively easy. You can still have a child seat in the second row when sliding the row forward for third-row access, but the seat may need to be retightened.

Gauges and controls are straightforward overall. Traditional hard keys and knobs are mixed with a well-organized touch screen and controller knob. Voice commands can control the phone, navigation, and limited audio functions.