Infiniti EX37 GT: Test Drive

Date: 27 June 2008   |   Author: Guy Bird

Category: Small 4x4 P11D price: £38,000 Key rival: BMW X3

Longer and lower than its rival, this curvy-roofed model has a similar look and feel to its bigger and newer FX50 4x4 sibling but with a little less glitz.

Still, you get a fair smattering of chrome, and in some unexpected places, like on the substantial tonneau cover handle for instance. The high-spec EX37 and EX37 GT trims provide all but leather seats and satnav as standard from most fleet drivers' wish lists. Beyond those trims, separate packs will be offered.

There's good technology too, such as the button behind the gear lever that electrically returns the rear seats to upright from folded. It's standard, as is Scratch Shield, an elastic topcoat that self-heals small paintwork scuffs.

An unusual option is the Around View Monitor that uses the satnav display to show images from cameras mounted at the front, rear and sides of the EX37 to give a view of parking hazards from all angles. It should cost circa £400 in addition to the £1500 Multimedia option pack that adds satnav and a Bose stereo.

Using the same 310PS 3.7-litre petrol engine as the G37 the EX37 will have plenty enough grunt if the slightly smaller-engined 297PS EX35 tested is anything to go by. It has all-wheel drive and shares much of its hardware with its G37 saloon and coupe for a sharpish drive, although it's purpose will never be to out-boulder a Freelander or out-road an X3.

Where it could win is in restricted supply, leftfield unhindered badge status, excellent spec for decent money and crucially - alongside its G and M siblings - a diesel from 2010.

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