2003 Infiniti FX: Road Test
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2003 Infiniti FX ▼
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- MSRP: $34,200 -$44,225
- Invoice: $30,962 -$40,009
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Our road test for the 2003 Infiniti FX includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Infiniti FX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Infiniti FX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Infiniti FX help you decide if a 2003 Infiniti FX is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 5.8 |
Among the faster SUVs. Test V6 AWD did 7.6 sec 0-60 mph, test V8 6.7. Automatic transmission smooth but can delay downshifts, making manual-shift mode attractive for quick passing maneuvers.
FUEL ECONOMY
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3.1 |
Test V6 AWD averaged 16 mpg. Test V8s averaged 14.6-15.6. All measurements included gas-eating performance tests. All FXs require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.6 |
Only models with sport suspension and 20-inch wheels and tires made available for test so far. Their ride is firm even on apparently smooth roads, can be jarring over sharp bumps and ridges. Sport chassis has fine high-speed stability. FX35s likely more comfortable on their base suspension and 18-inch tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.1 |
Poised and agile on twisty roads, with ample grip, well-checked body lean. Excellent crosswind stability, too. Firm steering with ample feedback adds to carlike driving feel. Brakes erase speed fast.
QUIETNESS
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
Mechanically refined and relaxed, if not luxury-car hushed. Engine noise intrudes some at full throttle, as does coarse-pavement thrum with 20-inch tires, but neither annoy. Wind rush modest.
CONTROLS
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.7 |
G35-style dashboard with clear gauges in a pod that tilts with steering wheel. Switchgear abounds and needs larger labeling. Navigation system adds extra controls that clutter instrument panel further, though system itself fairly easy to use. Cabin eschews wood accents for aluminum trim matched by good-quality leather or cloth upholstery. Test models solid, mostly rattle-free.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.3 |
Supportive leather seats shaped to keep occupants from sliding around but don't provide exceptional leg space even when set fully aft. Good driving stance has enough adjustments to suit most drivers. Roof styling hampers vision directly aft, over-the-shoulder, but not severely. Step-in between sedan and SUV heights and fairly easy, though low roofline requires some ducking.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Cabin too narrow for three adults, but two 6-footers have decent head clearance even beneath sunroof, plus better-than-average knee space and good under-seat foot room. Leg and back support not the best, though seatbacks can be reclined. Entry/exit demands fancy footwork, body English, due to narrow door bottoms.
CARGO ROOM
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7.5 |
Swoopy styling limits height and total volume behind rear seat, so forget tall or bulky cargo. Load floor is rather high for loading comfort. Split rear seat folds easily for extra space. Cabin storage for small items good, not great.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5.2 |
Like BMW's X5, the FX emphasizes sport over utility, probably too much so for some buyers. But carlike refinement, luxury, and especially road manners make the FX an attractive new choice among luxury-SUV crossovers, with Infiniti's strong warranty and kid-gloves customer care as bonuses.
Total Score
| FX35 AWD w/20-inch wheels | FX45 w/Tech Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 62 | 61 | 55.6 |
Total Score: 62
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