The Infiniti EX35 is a genuine driver's crossover: agile and composed, well-appointed and technologically advanced. But it's clear that somewhere in the rush toward putting the sport in sport utility, the EX abandoned the utility. While some competitors prove that the two need not be exclusive, the EX still sacrifices one for the other.

Given those concerns, it may come as a surprise that I'm a fan. Thing is, the EX sits near the top of its segment for sheer driving pleasure, and that has to count for something. If you're smitten by today's sport sedans but need a bit more utility, the EX may be worth a look. Just don't expect it to accommodate every one of your Costco inclinations.

The EX35 was introduced in late 2007 to compete with the BMW X3, Lexus RX and a subsequent conga line of emulators. We review the 2008 EX here, and you can compare it to the '09 here. The crossover comes in rear- or all-wheel drive, and shouldn't be confused with the Rogue crossover from parent company Nissan, which shares a similar shape but is built on a different platform.

• Carlike Driving
• The Inside
• High-End Technology
• Low-End Utility
• Safety, Reliability & Features
• EX35 in the Market