No matter how popular they became, the sport-utility vehicle category, with the exception of a BMW and Porsche model, was never really sporty. Big, cumbersome and truck-like, they offered utility but rarely performance until the crossovers started to show up.
That's why the V8 Infiniti FX45 (and V6 FX35) is one of my favorite vehicles to look at -- and to drive. Just like so many sedans, the high-performance models do not always get the exterior looks in sync with the exhilaration being pumped out of the drivetrain. Let's call it chemistry, and the FX has 'it going on.'
In 2006 the model got a refresher, so few items are really new for 2007. Thankfully, everything you could possibly want in an crossover, and in many cases much more than you would ever expect from one, are already here and standard.
On the outside, you have in the FX45 what is arguably the most distinctive exterior styling in the class. The two I see coming close are the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz R-Class. It is not just a matter of having a signature styling cue from the brand, but an entire look so distinctive and so different than anything on the road that you are instantly recognizable. That kind of head-turning draw is what people pay for.
At $56,220, depending on what goodies you decide to add on, you will pay for the Infiniti brand's dependability and customer service. This is a legit luxury brand that competes with the big boys by blending technology and performance with style and distinction.
The FX45 shares a modified version of the 4.5-liter V8 engine in the Infiniti Q45 flagship sedan. A butter-smooth, 5-speed automatic gearbox with manual-shift capability and Snow Mode function keeps the tread on the pavement and the FX out performing much of the wanna-bes on the open road.
All-wheel drive is standard on FX45 and it is appreciated on slippery surfaces while having fun pushing the boundaries a bit. If you want to tow additional toys, FX has a 3,500-pound maximum (tow pac is optional). I found the 4-wheel disc antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution delivered very secure stops. Vehicle Dynamic Control is an automated system that intervenes with brake pressure and throttle control if wheel slippage is detected.
Inside this luxury crossover you will find refined interior appointments and accents as well as supple leather and distinct Infiniti quality. I love the centerpiece clock face in the stack. It is a refined reminder of quality position just below the high tech portal of the 7-inch LCD screen. My tester came standard with an incredible 11-speaker 300-watt Bose system with 6-disc player.
My tester included the $4,200 Technology Package featuring Nav system; Lane Departure Warning System; Cruise Control and Satellite Radio. Add to that the necessary $1,400 DVD System and you can see how a base $49,850 quickly climbs to more than $50K.
Due to the distinctly rounded roofline, interior space is not as ample as in other SUVs or crossovers. I think the trade off is well worth a few feet of cargo space. With the 60/40-split back seat down, I was able to easily fit my bike into the back.
Quality material is a signature for Infiniti and the FX is plush. Glistening hardwood textures accentuate the smooth leather and dash materials. Visibility is higher than a sedan and close to that of an SUV. The sloping dash is racked far forward and offers a feeling inside the cabin that it is much larger. My driver seat had 10-way power adjustment while passenger seat adjustment was 8 ways. The power tilt/telescoping steering wheel made it impossible to not find the perfect fit behind the wheel.
Great standard features include Intelligent Key keyless entry/start system and Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface. Fastly becoming one of my must-have features is the Rearview backup camera. When you shift into reverse, the 7-inch color screen displays a live image from a back-bumper-mounted camera. You get used to this feature way too easily.
The FX45 does have a couple drawbacks that some crossovers overcome, it cannot handle seven passengers and it has a distinct need to stay put on the pavement. This Infiniti is not an off roader. Mileage is less than impressive at 14 city, 18 highway.
Overall, this didn't get to be one of my favorite vehicles of all time by being humdrum, conservative or paltry on performance. By offering 320 horsepower, it is one of the best-looking and most distinctive crossovers in this and any other SUV category. It is "pricey" but isn't anything that claims to deliver a luxury or performance experience. And this one does.
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