2006 Infiniti FX Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2006 Infiniti FX includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Infiniti FX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Infiniti FX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Infiniti FX help you decide if a 2006 Infiniti FX is right for you.

2006 Infiniti FX Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Rear visibility

Handling/roadholding	Rear-seat entry/exit

	Ride (w/20-inch tires)

	Fuel economy (FX45)

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

AWD FX35	AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg.	FX45 w/Tech Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	7	6.2

Among the quicker SUVs. Test AWD FX35 did 7.6 sec 0-60 mph, FX45 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	3.4

Test AWD FX35 averaged 15.6-16.0 mpg. Test FX45s 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
4	3	3	5.5

Ride 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 good high-speed stability.

Steering/Handling/Braking

AWD FX35	AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg.	FX45 w/Tech Pkg.	Class Average
7	6	6	5.7

Poised 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 tight sport suspension can jog vehicle slightly off course in bumpy turns. Brakes erase speed quickly.

Quietness

AWD FX35	AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg.	FX45 w/Tech Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	6	6.6

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
7	7	6	6.6

Clear gauges set in pod that tilts with steering wheel. Switchgear abounds; needs larger labeling. Navigation system adds controls that further clutter dashboard, though system itself fairly easy to use. Cabin balances low-budget plastic pieces with appealing aluminum trim, good-quality upholstery.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

AWD FX35	AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg.	FX45 w/Tech Pkg.	Class Average
8	8	8	7.5

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. Low roofline requires some ducking upon entry.

Room/Comfort (rear)

AWD FX35	AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg.	FX45 w/Tech Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	7	6.3

Cabin too narrow for three adults, but 6-footers have decent head clearance even beneath sunroof housing, plus above-average knee space and good under-seat foot room. Leg and back support not the best, despite reclining seatbacks. 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
8	8	8	7.9

Swoopy styling limits height and total volume behind rear seat, so forget tall or bulky cargo. Load floor rather high, too. 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
6	4	5	5.8

FX emphasizes sport over utility, probably too much so for some buyers. But otherworldly styling and sporty road manners help it stand out among premium midsize SUVs. Infiniti's strong warranty and kid-glove customer care are noteworthy, too.

Total Score