2003 Infiniti FX45 Review

The new FX crossover vehicle from Nissan's upscale Infiniti division is part of once-troubled Nissan's plan to make Infiniti a top luxury vehicle brand. It looks like an auto show "vehicle of the future'' that someone actually built.

So far, the ambitious plan for Infiniti from aggressive Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn is succeeding. Several years ago, most Infinitis were just dressed-up versions of Nissans. No longer. New Infiniti models include the rakish, highly praised Infiniti G35 coupe and sedan.

The G35 provides the basic platform for the FX, which comes in two trim levels: high-line FX45 and less costly FX35.

The futuristic-looking FX is a crossover four-door sport-utility vehicle about the size of a large sedan. It has a long hood, wide stance and big rear hatch. Its height is midway between that of a car and sport-utility, thus calling for a little extra effort to get in and out.

The aggressively styled FX has a long 112.2-inch wheelbase for a smoother ride and more interior room, but is 189.1 inches long for fairly easy garaging . It comes with rear- or all-wheel drive not meant for off-road use. There are luxury car comfort and features and excellent handling and performance--especially with the muscular V-8.

The $44,225 FX45 has standard all-wheel drive and a docile 4.5-liter, 315-horsepower V-8 based on the top-line Infiniti Q45 V-8. The FX35 has a modified 3.5-liter, 280-horsepower V-6 from the G35.

The well-equipped FX45 is so good it could be argued that this is the sport-utility that Porsche should have built, instead of the German automaker's costlier, rather boxy new Cayenne. After all, the FX45 streaks to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds and has such items as the aluminum independent rear suspension similar to that of the Nissan 350Z sports car.

My test FX45 was painted an eye-catching "liquid copper'' and had a definite show-car look. On the outside were flashy lines. On the inside were cockpit-like styling, sports seat, leather upholstery and extensive aluminum trim accents. The gauges are in a pod that tilts with the steering wheel, an arrangement that never lets the wheel hide them from easy view.

Because of lower prices, 70 percent of FX sales are expected to be accounted for by the FX35. It costs $34,200 with rear-drive and $35,700 with all-wheel drive.

The FX35 V-6 doesn't provide the stirring acceleration of the V-8 because this version is pretty heavy at 4,204-4,046 pounds. However, the V-6 should satisfy most buyers. You also can even feel the weight of the 4,299-pound FX45 during hard acceleration and emergency maneuvers.

Both engines work with a responsive five-speed automatic transmission, which has an easily used manual shift feature.

There'll be fewer fuel stops with the FX35. Estimated economy with the V-6 is 17 mpg in the city and 23 on highways with rear-drive and 16 and 22 with all-wheel drive. Figures are 15 city and 19 highway with the V-8. Thank goodness for the fairly large 23.8-gallon fuel tank.

My test FX45 was almost as much fun as a sports car. The quick power steering was heavy, but provided good road feel. Handling was superb with the advanced all-independent suspension. There was minimal body sway through fast curves and during quick lane changes at expressway speeds. Brakes were powerful, although the pedal needed a more linear feel.

All FX models have an antiskid/traction control system and anti-lock disc brakes to help keep overly aggressive drivers out of trouble.

Standard on the FX45 and optional for the FX35 are items including leather upholstery, heated front seats and that power tilt/telescopic steering wheel. A Premium option package contains a power sunroof, and a Technology package has radar cruise control to stay a predetermined distance from vehicles ahead and a rearview TV camera.

Standard FX safety features include front torso side air bags and front and rear curtain side air bags.

The FX45 is clearly the star of the show, with that V-8, tied-down sport suspension and wide 50-series tires. They're on enormous 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels, which enhance handling and help provide a show-vehicle look. However, that tire-wheel combination contributes to a firm, occasionally choppy ride. The 18-inch wheels and 60-series tires of the FX35 provide a more comfortable ride.

The bigger wheels and tires are optional for the V-6, as is the FX45 sport suspension, but those items seem a little silly without the V-8.

Gauges are easy to read quickly in all kinds of light, and there are large outside rearview mirrors. Small radio and climate controls are below a dashboard screen, which also is part of the optional navigation system. Power seat controls at the console sides of the front seats take getting used to.

There's no third-row seat, but four tall adults have plenty of room and sit rather high. The front bucket seats are supportive, and the only problem rear passengers have is slipping in and out through narrow doorways. The middle of the rear seat is too hard for comfort for a passenger of any size.

There's a wide, rather high cargo area opening. The cargo area is large, and split rear seatbacks flip forward via cargo compartment levers to considerably enlarge that area.

Infiniti plans to annually sell about 30,000 FX models. Those who want a racy, spacious crossover vehicle that acts much like a sports car should know that their ship has come in.


Infiniti FX
Prices:
$34,200-$44,225

Likes:
Distinctive. Upscale. Fast with V-8. Sure handling. Roomy.

Dislikes:
Narrow rear doors. Firm ride with top-line FX45 V-8. No economical engines.