Overview & Reviews

After years of watching its premium-brand rivals grab more than their slice of the three-row luxury crossover pie, Infiniti brought the JX to market for a single year before changing its name to QX60 (reviewed separately). Based on the Nissan Pathfinder, the roomy JX provides used car shoppers seating for seven and is both practical and comfortable. The second-row seat, for example, tilts and slides to allow easier access to the third row.

As expected from an Infiniti, the spacious cabin also boasts excellent fit and finish and plenty of high-tech convenience and safety features. What isn't expected is the rather bland driving experience, as the JX lacks the athletic personality prevalent through the brand's lineup. That said, the Infiniti JX, with its accommodating interior, comfortable ride and wealth of user-friendly luxury features would likely make an agreeable choice for anyone shopping for a practical and upscale used family vehicle.

Used Infiniti JX Models
Introduced for 2013, the Infiniti JX was available in a single trim level. The JX came with a 3.5-liter V6 with 265 horsepower matched to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a Sport mode that mimics the gearchanges of a conventional transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, while all-wheel drive was optional.

Standard features included automatic bi-xenon headlights, a sunroof, a power liftgate, keyless ignition/entry, leather upholstery, heated power front seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, tri-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a rearview camera and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface. Optional highlights included a 360-degree parking camera system, front and rear parking sensors, a Bose audio system, a navigation system, a dual-screen entertainment system and a Driver Assistance package with adaptive cruise control, forward and rear collision warning, intelligent brake assist, blind spot warning, a heated steering wheel and remote ignition.

Chief among the JX's assets is its flexible and generous seating. In addition to that tilting and sliding second-row seat, this Infiniti features a third row that provides enough room for average-sized adults. Additionally, both rows feature reclining seatbacks. Passengers will also enjoy first-class, leather-lined accommodations with rich-looking wood and metallic accents. The various electronic gadgets are intuitive and easy to use, which is a rare trait given the ever-increasing number of these features.

In reviews, we found the JX to be something of an odd duck in the Infiniti family. Rather than having the sharp handling chops that mark the brand, the JX feels mushy and lazy when pushed on a twisty road. Though it makes for a pleasant road trip cruiser, the JX was clearly not cut from the same cloth as its crossover siblings.

User Reviews:

• 

  First Impressions - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By beagle11 - April 13 - 9:19 am

  Just took delivery of our emerald graphite JX35 AWD (fully loaded) with java brown interior. My first impressions are as follows: Appearance: As attractive as the JX35 appears in the photos, the vehicle looks even better in person. The exterior styling is very sporty without looking gimmicky. The dark plastic aeroskirts and underbody accents compliment the lines well. While the salesman admitted he was skeptical of the java interior with the dark gray dash and emerald graphite color scheme when we pre-ordered, but was very impressed when it was delivered. The dark brown leather looks very luxurious and breaks up what would be a monochromatic look. It’s definitely one of the smartest looking SUVs on the road today. Performance: The engine is adequate and the ride is more luxurious than it is sporty. For 90% of drivers in this class, it will perform admirably. Plows quite bit into the turns, but this isn’t a M series. Interior: Top notch interior. Seats are firm, but comfortable. I am a large guy over 6 feet, and I can fit in all three rows. The 3rd row would be tough for long periods, but doable for less than an hour. The 3rd row access entry space is big enough for an adult to gain access within to much trouble. Technology: It may take a year or more to get your hands around all of the features. The basic functions are intuitive, but like a really powerful smart phone, the vehicle’s capabilities likely far exceed the user’s mastery of the system’s functionality. The steering wheel controls are reversed from most vehicles, and the different interfaces will take a little while to familiarize myself with being a distraction. Non-Critical, but Quirky Issues: Due to the push-button keyless ignition, there doesn’t appear to be a way to energize the vehicle control systems within starting the vehicle first. There doesn’t appear to be a way to roll up and down windows, or play radio like you would with a vehicle in “accessory mode with a traditional turn-key ignition. There is a very poorly placed “SOS” button for the Infiniti Connect emergency notification system. The button is located on the overhead control panel, approximately ½-inch below the button for the driver-side overhead lamp. When the headlines are engaged, the button is back-lighted, but is easily confused with the overhead light switch in the dark. Yes, I pushed it accidentally on the first evening I drove the car. The response came from Infiniti in approximately 30 seconds and the call center representative was thankfully very understanding. While the odds of changing a tire yourself is remote with roadside assistance, the rear Bose Direct-Wave speaker and plastic rear hatch liner would need o be removed prior to accessing the under-body high pressure spare tire and jack. Remote start will not work with second key located inside of within close proximity of the vehicle. Once the second key was removed from the car, it started right up. While the DVD playing in the back can be viewed on the front heads-up monitor, the car must be stopped and the emergency break engaged before it will come up. No CD changer, but rather a hard drive storage system where you can burn hundreds on CDs onto prior to leaving. Unclear if the burn function works with audio books. Overall: I think Acura is going to have to re-design the MDX this year to match the JX35 main buying demographic. The bar has been raised in that price class. While not perfect and bordering on being too technologically complex, the JX35 hits or exceeds expectations for factors that matter to the 40-something $100K+ income female.

• 

  JX35 Birthday Surprise - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By Marianne - April 6 - 7:35 am

  Its a pleasure to drive, handles great.

• 

  Under Priced Luxury Car - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By obie1974 - January 24 - 8:27 am

  I dont get excited about cars these days but have really enjoyed the JX more than any other car Ive owned or driven. My wife and I were considering purchasing a new luxury car next year and after research, narrowed down to the new M Class and the X5. We never considered Infiniti until we saw a teaser ad. After thourough research, I was at the Infiniti dealership the day it arrived. This car had more features and plenty of room for passengers than anything weve looked at. It has more than enough power. It has the best CVT weve driven. All the technology works great. The car practically drives itself. Great family our touring car. Test drive the car yourself rather than relying on reviews.

• 

  I Couldnt Be More Satisfied - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By obie1974 - January 11 - 8:58 am

  I researched this car way before it came out and compared it to competitors in its class. When comparing all the technology and pricing for each, this car won hands-down. Ive had it for over a year and have 15k miles on it. It has been a pleasure to drive and carry passengers on long trips. I handles very well on windy roads, gets excellent gas milage for a V6 (24-26 mpg why), but most of all the technology incorporated into the fully loaded JX is awesome. Will never want a car without back up collision intervention, lane departure warning/intervention, smart cruise, Infiniti Connection, etc. I never get tired of driving this well designed and proportioned vehicle.

• 

  Best Car I Have Ever Owned - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By lovethejx - October 1 - 4:35 am

  I traded a 2012 MDX for the JX. I only had the MDX for a couple of months and got terrible gas mileage. "Just for fun" I test drove the JX. The rest is history. I absolutely love this car. Had it one month and find excuses to drive it. I very much like the transmission choices. I use the sport mode when starting off and then depending on whether Im on local roads or an interstate, shift the knob accordingly. While in eco drive I have already managed 24.6 MPG. I also find it much easier to drive than the MDX. My seating position gives me a better view of the road and the ride itself is smooth, quit and just plain relaxing.

• 

  So Impressed !!!! Glad I purchased the JX 35 :-) - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By ritabeeta - September 23 - 8:54 am

  I purchased my JX 35 in May 2012. I am so impressed with it. Forget about the comments regarding the pick up, this baby moves. I traded in a 04 Expedition. Took it on the road to NC, didnt realize how fast I was going, the ride is so smooth. excellent on fuel. I am so very happy. I test drove the Enclave, MDX, and SRX. There is no comparison. Had my heart set on the SRX until I drove this SUV. Salesman did such a great job of introducing me to the features. I am still learning something new everyday. Get off the fence and test drive this SUV, you will not be sorry.

• 

  Impressive Vehicle - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By hondaman35 - September 9 - 3:15 am

  With children reaching teen stage, the wife (aka “the boss”) finally decided that we’ve graduated from minivans. Basic requirements: cross-over, 3-row seating, leather and within $45K. Researched: MDX: Pros - Honda name, resale, handling. Cons – Value quotient, dated styling. Pilot: Pros – Honda name, resale, decent ride. Cons – Remember, I’m trying to graduate from driving a box on wheels! Honda with leather starts mid to high 30’s? CX9: Pros – Mazda name, sporty handling, great reviews. Cons – Outdated styling, minivan with long nose. Explorer: Pros – Styling, options, price ranges. Cons – Will top $40K with options. Resale value will exceed loan amount before first juice stain.

• 

  Not much to find fault with - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By edhryb - February 14 - 5:49 am

  Up to 5,000 miles on my JX. Really a great overall package. Perfect for a 4 person family who needs to carry and extra child here and there. Flexible cargo, nice handling and power, an awesome interior design, nice exterior, great electronics (NAV, entertainment, camera and warnings). Not much competition out there until Acura updates the MDX. Really a pleasure to drive for a long weekend, to the beach, around town, etc. Had a minor rattle that dealer had to fix but everything else has been perfect. Style is a matter of taste but I love my liquid platinum. Added roof rails and mud guards. Also, love the rims. Why do so many American-designed cars go with flashy chrome instead?

• 

  BLOWN AWAY!!! - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By aj00 - February 13 - 11:23 am

  I have never, EVER, reviewed a car, or anything else for that matter. I had to subscribe to edmunds to write this review. This car is AWESOME!! I never thought a car could have so many luxurious amenities.. Had a decked out 2010 RAV-4 before this one. There is just no contest. The JX rides extemely smoothly. The pit holes and bumps on the road that I could feel everyday going to and from work in my old car, are just not there anymore. Would absolutely recommend this baby to any family. Its price is very competitive with features that I dont even think any other luxury maker offers. I am leasing it with all available packages. I will most likely buy it out or lease a new one in 3 yrs!

• 

  Supremely Comfortable and Functional - 2013 Infiniti JX
  By snoopbobb - March 20 - 6:47 am

  My wife and I are in our early 40s, and we have a toddler. We wanted a car that has all of the practical amenities that we need for our kid and her stuff, along with the luxuries to which wed become accustomed. The JX suited our needs better than any other vehicle on the market. Also, in the big scheme of things, its actually a pretty solid value for what you get. E.g., we only paid about $5000 more for a JX thats loaded with the driver-assistance package and theater package than we wouldve paid for a comparably loaded Toyota Sienna Limited.