Used 2013 Infiniti JX SUV Crossover Review & Ratings

Performance

The 2013 Infiniti JX SUV gets a sport-tuned continuously variable transmission and a 3.5-liter V6 engine to deliver 265 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Zero to 60 mph takes 8.3 seconds, which is acceptable, but it is the CVT that slows acceleration and hinders performance. It is a full second slower than both Lexus RX 350 and Acura MDX. Front-wheel drive is standard, but most consumers will likely want to opt for the all-wheel drive. Maximum towing capacity for the JX is fairly impressive at 3,500 pound, when properly equipped.

As you would expect from Infiniti, the ride is smooth, thanks to the four-wheel independent suspension. Although an SUV, this is a vehicle made for the paved road as ground clearance is only a short 6.5 inches.

Fuel-economy is decent, returning 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Still, you would expect that with its mediocre performance, it would be better. Handling is uncertain and the front-end does not respond well to quick changes as it feels mushy, resulting in a tremendous amount of body roll.

Technology

• Infiniti ConnectionTM: The JX is the first of the line’s vehicle to offer this feature, which offers enhanced roadside association, auto crash notification, alarm notification, stolen vehicle reporting, maintenance alert, personal calendar and more.
• Infiniti Personal Assistant: This 24-hour concierge service is free for four years. Your assistant can get directions, make reservations, answer questions, etc.
• Sound System: If you want the ultimate sound experience, you will upgrade to the premium Bose surround-sound that includes 15 speakers.

Other standard and optional technology and entertainment features include Bluetooth, 360-degree parking camera, hard-drive navigation, remote start, blind-spot warning, power lift gate, advanced climate control, USB connection, XM satellite radio and speed sensitive volume control.

Safety

The Backup Collision System is a strong selling point for the 2013 Infiniti JX. This new system will warn the driver if there is a vehicle entering their path. Then, if needed, the system may engage the brakes if the driver does not respond quickly enough.

When braking performance was tested, the JX stopped from 60 mph is an impressive 117 feet. Just a few of the many safety features to offer peace-of-mind include:

• Blind spot warning system
• Around view monitor
• Lane departure warning
• Intelligent cruise control
• Distance control assist
• Tire-pressure monitoring
• Roof mounted airbags with rollover sensors
• Front seatbelt pretensioners
• Steel side-door guard beams
• Front and rear crumple zones
• 4-wheel ABS
• Child seat anchors
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Emergency brakeforce distribution
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Stability control
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Traction control

Appearance

A modern design language is appreciated on the 2013 Infiniti JX. You quickly notice the double-wave hood, dramatic front grille and headlight association and crescent cut D-pillar. The low roofline provides an aerodynamic look while the integrated rear spoiler and rear tire deflectors add points of interest to be appreciated by the drivers you pass.

Comfort

When Infiniti says seating for seven, they actually mean it. The second row seats tilt and slide almost six inches to not only offer ample leg room, but to also provide easy access to the third row. The entire cabin is spacious and comfortable for all passengers, even the 6-foot ones in the back. Both rear seats recline.

There is a rich combination of wood, leather and metal throughout that echoes of luxury. Of course, as you would expect, the controls are right where you need them to be and gauges are easy to read.

Cargo

With all seats in place, cargo capacity is nothing to get excited about at only 15.8 cubic feet. However, when you fold down the rear two seats, JX is able to compete once again with 76.5 cubic feet behind the front seats.