2004 Infiniti FX: Road Test
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2004 Infiniti FX ▼
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- MSRP: $34,350 -$44,375
- Invoice: $31,098 -$40,144
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Our road test for the 2004 Infiniti FX includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Infiniti FX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Infiniti FX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Infiniti FX help you decide if a 2004 Infiniti FX is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 5.8 |
Among the quickest SUVs. Test V6 AWD did 7.6 sec 0-60 mph, test V8 6.7 sec. Automatic transmission smooth but can delay downshifts, making manual-shift mode attractive for quick passing maneuvers. Trailering capacity is 3500 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.3 |
Test AWD FX35 averaged 15.6-16.0 mpg. Test FX 45s averaged 14.6-16.0. All FXs require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 2 | 4.9 |
Despite suspension revisions, ride is quite firm even on apparently smooth roads, can be harsh over sharp bumps and ridges. FX35 with 18-inch tires cushions impact far better than models with sport suspension and 20-inch tires. All exhibit fine high-speed stability.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
Poised and agile on smooth twisty roads, with great grip, well-checked body lean. Excellent crosswind stability. Quick, firm steering with ample feedback adds to carlike driving feel, but 20-inch tires tend to follow road grooves, compromising steering control. And sport suspension's tautness can jar vehicle off course in bumpy turns. Brakes erase speed quickly.
QUIETNESS
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
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
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Clear gauges set 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 balances low-budget plastic pieces with appealing aluminum trim and good-quality upholstery.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Supportive seats bolster well in turns but don't provide exceptional leg space even when set fully aft. Wheel/seat adjustments suit most drivers. Roof styling hampers vision directly aft, over-the-shoulder. Step-in requires step up, and low roofline requires some ducking.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Cabin too narrow for three adults, but 6-footers have decent head clearance even beneath sunroof, plus better-than-average knee space and good under-seat foot room. Leg, back support not the best, though seatbacks can be reclined. Entry/exit demands fancy footwork, body English, to negotiate narrow door bottoms.
CARGO ROOM
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7.4 |
Swoopy styling limits height, total volume behind rear seat, so forget tall or bulky cargo. Load floor rather high. Split rear seat folds easily for extra space. Cabin storage for small items good, not great.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 5.6 |
FX emphasizes sport over utility, probably too much so for some buyers. But otherworldly styling and road manners worthy of a sport sedan help it stand out among premium midsize SUVs. Infiniti's strong warranty and kid-gloves customer care are bonuses.
Total Score
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg. | FX45 w/Tech. Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 59 | 58 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 59
Scores for all Premium-midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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