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The new Infiniti EX35 cuts quite a handsome profile, with its long hood and gracefully sloping roofline.

The EX looks like a cross between a sports coupe and a compact SUV, which is exactly the image that the stylists at Nissan’s luxury division were going for. They did it once before, and the EX most resembles a smaller version of the distinctive FX.

But that attractive roofline has its downsides, cutting into cargo space and compromising headroom for the already-cramped rear seat. When the body design limits functionality, you have to wonder whether style trumps substance.

Still, you have to admire Nissan and Infiniti for continually coming up with cutting-edge styling for their cars, trucks and crossovers that sets their products apart. This has been one of the main factors behind the automaker’s dramatic turnaround.

Thankfully, the EX drives as good as it looks. Based on the underpinning of the G35 sedan and powered by Nissan’s gutsy 3.5-liter V-6, the EX corners nimbly for a nearly 2-ton, high-profile SUV and has enough power for decent acceleration and passing maneuvers.

The EX comes loaded with high-tech gear for safety, convenience and entertainment. Unfortunately, I missed sampling a new EX option that has made a big impression: a unique Around View Monitor that uses strategically mounted cameras for a 360-degree view. The test car lacked that feature, though it did have a backup camera and a radar-warning system that beeped loudly any time you got near anything.

What impresses most about the EX is the comfort, at least for front-seat occupants, and its drivability. Gas mileage isn’t bad, either. I got a consistent 20 miles per gallon in mostly urban driving.

Infiniti EX35 Journey

Vehicle type: Five-passenger, four-door crossover SUV, rear-wheel drive.

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 297 horsepower at 6,800 rpm, 253 pounds-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Transmission: Five-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 110.2 inches.

Overall length: 182.3 inches.

Curb weight: 3,790 pounds.

EPA rating: 17 city, 24 highway.

HIGHS: Superior drivability, lush interior, streamlined styling.

LOWS: Cramped back seat, limited cargo space, transmission woes.

PERFORMANCE: The 297-horsepower engine is the same V-6 that powers the Nissan 350Z sports car and has loads of pulling power, but it is accompanied by significant engine roar under acceleration.

The five-speed automatic, with its adaptive shift control that adjusts to driver input, feels sluggish and harsh. It could just be, however, that the test car needs some adjustment.

DRIVABILITY: The handling is first rate for this class of tall vehicle, cornering nicely with limited body sway and feeling sure-footed in all driving situations. The steering is firm and precise, and the electronically enhanced disc brakes are strong.

STYLING: An attractive and distinctive-looking SUV, along the same lines as Infiniti’s bigger FX. The optional 18-inch alloy wheels add a sporty flair.

INTERIOR: The leather and metallic trim are modern and stylish, and the complex electronic functions – navigation, trip computer, audio and climate control – are well-integrated. The optional premium audio system sounds great.

Very comfortable and roomy up front but cramped in the back seat. Besides the limited legroom, the canted roofline cuts into the headroom. The sloping shape also limits tall cargo behind the rear seats.

Luxury features abound.

BOTTOM LINE: A great look, but the shape somewhat thwarts passenger and cargo capacity, which really is the reason for driving an SUV in the first place. The price seems fairly reasonable for a complete package of luxury and safety items.

Base price: $34,850.

Price as tested: $41,215.

OPTIONS

Premium package, including audio upgrade, dual-zone climate control, rear air-condition vent, Bluetooth phone system, 8-way power passenger seat, power adjustable steering wheel, $2,150.

Navigation package, $2,150.

Styling package, with 18-inch alloy wheels and xenon auto-leveling and adaptive headlights, $1,250.

Shipping, $815.