Thinking of buying a 2008 EX35

[Callie]

I am thinking of buying a 2008 EX35 Journey. I'm not sure what all the EX35 packages are, but this one has everything. It has bells and whistles that I've never heard of before (lane drifting?). The price is $28,700. Is that a good deal? I am a little nervous because I have never bought a used car before but it only has 25,000 miles on it. I am used to driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee which has a nice ride but is too big and doesn't have that much pickup. I want a small SUV. What are the pros and cons of buying a used EX35? Is this a good time to be buying one? Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

[Tasman]

Tough to answer all the questions. I would not hesitate on buying a used EX35. The 2008 was the first of the model year and they are showing up as lease-end vehicles. I am sure that people that own the 2008 model can give you better advice but make sure that you know that there was an issue with vibration and replacement of the steering column. Search is your friend to learn more about that. The pros are that you are getting a good price and $28,700 is about normal. Used cars are now in demand. The cons are only refinements in the options they offer and minor fixes on old problems (like the steering column). I have watched the dealership that I purchased our vehicle from and surprised how they have a hard time keeping new or used EX35s in stock and they "import" the used EXs from Southern California.

I cannot tell you if this is the right time to buy or not. I will tell you that I have loved the Infinti line since the first time I test drove one (and bought it) and love the EX too. It is not a vehicle for all people. The minimal back seat leg room and storage is well documented already. What is missed in all of that is how damn nice it is to drive it. As it has been stated before, it feels like a G37 but better cargo carrying capabilities.

[jmess]

I have 2008 loaded 2wd. It was built in Dec 07 and I bought it in March 08. I have 27K on it now and I like a lot more than I thought I would. Worst issue I've had was a vibration in the dash that took 3 visits to the dealer to resolve but it got fixed. One of my favorite features is the around view monitor, I use it all the time.

[EXceptional]

Look into the leaking Sunroof issue and the noisy Fuel-pump issue.

Also, see if it has Dunlop 7000 Tires on it... you'll have to replace them soon.

[sashki2]

IMHO, you're not getting a good deal. I've paid $27,5 for mine a little less then a year ago. Mine also has everything, including navigation, & had 20kMi at the time. There was a thread on this forum where people posted what they paid - check it out.
The pros for me was that I didn't take depreciation hit of first years. In the glove box, there was the original sticker for my EX with over 42k price tag. I hope the previous owner didn't pay that much

[Avalanche325]

Mine has everything except lane departure and the 360 view. I paid $24k. It is hard to compair cars without seeeing them. Two cars that list exactly the same could be quite a bit different. A smoker with pets and kids that dosen't take care of the car can take a toll in a short amount of time. A close inspection, and your butt in the seat can tell you a lot.

As far as an EX35 in general goes. I would say that the small back seat would be the limiting factor for most people. It is basically the hatch version of the G35. It is a really nice mix of luxury, performance, technology and value.

IMHO a Jeep is not in the same league. Infiniti is a premium brand that competes with BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus. And yes, some of that is "status symbol" but the vast majority is fit, finish, and engineering. I set out to buy a BMW X3, and would have had to pay $8k or so more to even get the same features. The EX35 drives like a car......way better for me.

[sashki2]

...to add to Avalanche325 point, Infinity is way more reliable & most likely cheaper to maintain then a BMW

[Callie]

Thanks to all for replying. I appreciate your feedback. I am going tomorrow for another test drive. I looked at a BMW X3. It was more expensive and I didn't like the ride. Very stiff. That's one thing I really like about the EX35: it drives like a car. I will let you know my decision.