The first question that comes to mind upon seeing the Infiniti EX37 is, "What exactly is it?" Infiniti categorizes it as a premium mini SUV, but it features coupe-esque lines with a long hood and sloping roofline. Does this design make you want to rush to the showroom to buy this mini X6 today? Well…not really. Let's explore what this car is all about, as it has its merits.

To Look At…

Beauty may lie in the eye of the beholder, but the design of the EX37 leaves much to be desired. The front view is not particularly appealing, and from other angles, it lacks standout styling elements that differentiate it from the rest of the Infiniti lineup. While trying to maintain compact proportions, the coupe-esque body style with the long hood makes the EX37 feel larger than it is—until you step inside.

On the Inside…

Infiniti EX37 Interior

Upon opening the doors to the Infiniti EX37, the first thing you notice is the flimsy feel of the door—it’s reminiscent of a thin sheet of tin, which is not comforting for a premium vehicle.

The interior space is surprisingly cramped. Infiniti could have benefited from shortening the hood to utilize every available inch for passenger comfort. The feeling of claustrophobia is exacerbated by the lack of storage options. You’ll find:

A couple of cup holders that transform into bottle holders.
A shallow center console.
A tiny dash compartment filled with an owner's manual and service history booklet.

While the perceived quality of the interiors is decent, it doesn't quite measure up to luxury standards. The test car featured brown leather upholstery, with the dash-top and steering wheel wrapped in black leather—a color choice that may not appeal to everyone but adds a unique touch.

The test model came equipped with numerous features, including:

A sunroof.
An excellent navigation system.
A Bose sound system that outshines many found in more expensive cars.
Standard cruise control (though not radar-guided).
Parking sensors all around.
A 360-degree camera view, which is particularly useful for maneuvering in tight spots.

To Drive…

Returning to the question of what the EX37 truly is, it’s not precisely an SUV. Some sedans may have more wheel travel and higher suspension than the EX37. Typical buyers will not be using the EX37 for off-roading or dune bashing; rather, they appreciate the higher seating position for better visibility and the security of four-wheel drive on less-than-perfect roads. However, the low stance of the Infiniti doesn't significantly improve visibility compared to a sedan.

With its permanent four-wheel drive and low stance, the EX37 handles more like a sedan. The ride is surprisingly comfortable, absorbing road bumps well without excessive wallowing. The braking system is strong, providing a reliable stop, but the pedal feels too light in everyday driving, leading to harder braking than necessary.

As for the engine, the EX37 boasts a 326bhp 3.7-liter V6, which is unexpected for a compact crossover. This powerful engine, shared with the 370Z sports car, offers impressive acceleration but feels excessive for the vehicle's size and purpose. Overtaking is easy, and the engine produces a pleasant roar. However, the transmission is less impressive, exhibiting jerky shifts and poor gear spacing. It only drops gears when the throttle is fully pressed, which can lead to sudden acceleration. While quiet on the highway, expect a fuel consumption of around 12L/100km, which is less than ideal for a compact crossover.

Conclusion

The Infiniti EX37 is akin to the misfit in a classroom—polite yet lacking polish. It possesses brute strength but lacks refinement, coming from a very wealthy lineage. While I hoped to conclude that the Infiniti has its quirks but is a decent vehicle, the high starting price of AED 168k complicates that narrative. This price is excessive for a compact crossover. Even though the EX37 competes with models like the BMW X1 3.5 and may be cheaper, it struggles to justify its price tag, ultimately sealing its fate in the market.

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