TheCarConnection.com's team of car experts read reviews of the 2008 Infiniti FX to compile this definitive review. Editors at TheCarConnection.com also drove the Infiniti FX and have added driving impressions where it helps you make a more informed buying decision, and where it helps explain why some other reviewers hold conflicting opinions.
Likes:
- Lots of smooth power
- Comfortable interior
- Available all-wheel-drive (AWD)
- Athletic handling
Dislikes:
- Lots of buttons on the dash
- Smallish back-seat
- Poor rear visibility
- Stiff ride
The Infiniti FX has been a curiosity since its 2003 introduction. It's taken some time to classify this crossover, because when there was just the FX, it was easier just to call it an anomaly. With the popularity of coupelike sedans and the new BMW X6 coupelike crossover SUV, the 2008 Infiniti FX is beginning to make some sense.
The 2008 edition of the Infiniti FX crossover brings with it new standard features and a base price below $38,000. The FX comes in two models: the V-6-powered FX35 and the V-8-powered FX45. The V-6 is rear-wheel drive in standard form, and can be ordered with all-wheel drive; it's standard on the V-8.
For 2008, Infiniti has added standard XM Satellite Radio to the FX, along with a body-color satellite radio antenna. Also standard: a leather interior, a 300-watt Bose audio system with 11 speakers, a five-speed automatic transmission, and a rearview camera (necessary because of the low seating position, high belt line, and big C-pillars).
The FX35's base price for 2008 is $37,950. Its standard 3.5-liter V-6 makes 275 horsepower. On top of its standard features, options also include a Touring Package, a Sport Package, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and run-flat tires. With all-wheel drive, the base price is $39,450.
The FX45, meanwhile, starts at $50,000. Its standard 4.5-liter V-8 makes 320 horsepower, and all-wheel drive is standard. Options include run-flat tires, a navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
What you get from either 2008 Infiniti FX is a responsive crossover with firm, sedanlike handling. For those with any familiarity of Infiniti products, this won't come as a surprise because this brand's cars have very good road manners. The FX is also built on a chassis that shares many important components and design features with other impressive machines, including the Infiniti G37 coupe, a car editors of TheCarConnection.com like a lot.
The FX is also a receptacle for all kinds of electronic "nanny" technologies. Ordering the FX's $4,000 Technology Package gets drivers the questionable benefits of Lane Departure Warning system (it beeps at you when you veer out of your lane), Intelligent Cruise Control (modulates your speed based on vehicles in front of you), and Brake Assist (slams on the brakes if you don't). In case you're wondering, these technologies simply do what the driver should.
Various editors from TheCarConnection.com refer to the exterior design of the FX as the Bionic Cheetah or the Atomic Toad. Take your pick, but know that the shape of the 2008 Infiniti FX creates strong opinions.
The Bottom Line:
If you want even more V-8 power, wait for the 2009 Infiniti FX 50 with a full 390 horsepower.
Other Choices:
If you're interested in the 2008 Infiniti FX35 or FX45, also consider:
- BMW X6
- Audi Q7
- Porsche Cayenne S
- Acura MDX
- Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
Reason why
Thanks to the 2008 BMW X6, the 2008 Infiniti FX has another similarly styled pal in the sandbox. These are both coupe-styled crossovers that have a penchant for performance. Dollar per dollar, the Infiniti FX45 holds an edge over the new X6.
More conventional but still high-performance utilities include Audi Q7 (with a third row of seats) and the Porsche Cayenne S. What these crossovers give up in terms of coupe styling, they give back in interior room.
The last potential competitor for the 2008 Infiniti FX--particularly the FX45--is the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. These two feature all-wheel drive, big-horsepower V-8s, fancy wheels, and suspensions tuned to rip the asphalt off freeway ramps.
Buying Tip:
The 2008 Infiniti FX is being replaced in 2009 with a newly styled version that's even more outrageous. If the Atomic Toad appeals to you, just wait for the 2009 model.
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Review was originally published at TheCarConnection.com
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