Vehicle History Report
Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.
- • New Cars
2008 Infiniti FX Full Review
Date Published: 6/17/08
Also in the 2008 Infiniti FX Review:
5.
6.
Infiniti FX Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Infiniti FX Review
The 2008 Infiniti FX carries over with no major changes. FX is a crossover that's available with a V6 or V8 engine. The FX35 teams a 275-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine with rear- or all-wheel drive. FX45 models have a 320-hp 4.5-liter V8 and AWD. Both use a 5-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Infiniti's optional Lane Departure Warning System sounds an alert when the vehicle crosses lane dividers. A sport suspension is standard for FX45, available for FX35. Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, driver-seat memory, and a rearview camera are standard. Adaptive cruise control and keyless entry and starting are among available features.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.
Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Buick Enclave, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Buick Enclave.
Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Buick Enclave, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Buick Enclave.
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 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
Among the quicker SUVs. An AWD FX35 did 7.6 sec 0-60 mph in our test; an FX45 did 6.7 sec 0-60. The automatic transmission is smooth but can delay downshifts, making the manual-shift mode attractive for quick passing maneuvers.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.1 |
Among the quicker SUVs. An AWD FX35 did 7.6 sec 0-60 mph in our test; an FX45 did 6.7 sec 0-60. The automatic transmission is smooth but can delay downshifts, making the manual-shift mode attractive for quick passing maneuvers.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD FX35s averaged 15.6-16.0 mpg. Test FX45s averaged 14.6-16.0. All require premium-grade gas.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD FX35s averaged 15.6-16.0 mpg. Test FX45s averaged 14.6-16.0. All require premium-grade gas.
Ride Quality
The ride is quite firm even on apparently smooth roads, and it can be harsh over sharp bumps and ridges. FX35 with its standard 18-inch tires cushions impacts far better than models with the sport suspension and 20-inch tires. All exhibit good high-speed stability.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 5.9 |
The ride is quite firm even on apparently smooth roads, and it can be harsh over sharp bumps and ridges. FX35 with its standard 18-inch tires cushions impacts far better than models with the sport suspension and 20-inch tires. All exhibit good high-speed stability.
Steering/Handling/Braking
FX compensates somewhat for its hard ride by being poised on smooth twisty roads, with great grip and well-checked body lean. Steering is quick and firm with ample feedback that adds to FX's car-like driving feel. Its 20-inch tires tend to follow road grooves, compromising steering control. The sport suspension can jog FX slightly off course in bumpy turns. The brakes erase speed quickly.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
FX compensates somewhat for its hard ride by being poised on smooth twisty roads, with great grip and well-checked body lean. Steering is quick and firm with ample feedback that adds to FX's car-like driving feel. Its 20-inch tires tend to follow road grooves, compromising steering control. The sport suspension can jog FX slightly off course in bumpy turns. The brakes erase speed quickly.
Quietness
Engine noise intrudes some at full throttle, as does coarse-pavement tire thrum with the 20-inch tires. Neither are annoying, though. Wind rush is modest.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Engine noise intrudes some at full throttle, as does coarse-pavement tire thrum with the 20-inch tires. Neither are annoying, though. Wind rush is modest.
Controls
Clear gauges are set in a pod that tilts with the steering wheel. Various buttons and switches abound in the cabin, and they need larger labeling. The navigation system adds controls that further clutter the dashboard, though the system itself is fairly easy to use.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.2 |
Clear gauges are set in a pod that tilts with the steering wheel. Various buttons and switches abound in the cabin, and they need larger labeling. The navigation system adds controls that further clutter the dashboard, though the system itself is fairly easy to use.
Details
FX's cabin balances a few low-budget plastic pieces with appealing aluminum trim and good-quality upholstery.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
FX's cabin balances a few low-budget plastic pieces with appealing aluminum trim and good-quality upholstery.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Supportive seats bolster well in turns, but they don't provide exceptional leg space even when set fully aft. The available wheel and seat adjustments suit most drivers. Roof styling hampers vision directly aft and over the shoulder. The low roofline requires some ducking upon entry.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
Supportive seats bolster well in turns, but they don't provide exceptional leg space even when set fully aft. The available wheel and seat adjustments suit most drivers. Roof styling hampers vision directly aft and over the shoulder. The low roofline requires some ducking upon entry.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Too narrow for three adults, but six-footers have decent headroom even beneath the sunroof housing. There's above-average knee space and good under-seat foot clearance. Leg and back support are not the best, despite the presence of reclining seatbacks. Entry and exit demands fancy footwork and twisting to negotiate narrow door bottoms.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.5 |
Too narrow for three adults, but six-footers have decent headroom even beneath the sunroof housing. There's above-average knee space and good under-seat foot clearance. Leg and back support are not the best, despite the presence of reclining seatbacks. Entry and exit demands fancy footwork and twisting to negotiate narrow door bottoms.
Cargo Room
Swoopy styling limits height and total volume behind the rear seat, so forget tall or bulky cargo. The load floor is rather high, too. Split rear seatbacks fold easily for extra space. Cabin storage for small items is just okay.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.6 |
Swoopy styling limits height and total volume behind the rear seat, so forget tall or bulky cargo. The load floor is rather high, too. Split rear seatbacks fold easily for extra space. Cabin storage for small items is just okay.
Value within Class
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.
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 6.1 |
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
| AWD FX35 | AWD FX35 w/Sport Pkg | FX45 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 68 | 64 | 65 | 69.4 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 60 | |
| Average Score | 69 | |
| High Score | 80 |
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Infiniti FX Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/13/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| 2WD FX35 4-door wagon | $37,950 | $34,888 | $760 |
|
|
|||
| AWD FX35 4-door wagon | $39,450 | $36,263 | $760 |
|
|
|||
| AWD FX45 4-door wagon | $50,000 | $45,934 | $760 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
FX35
Powertrain
3.5-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags w/rollover deployment, front-seat active head restraints, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats, 10-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), center console, split folding rear seat w/power release, aluminum interior trim, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, digital-media player connection, satellite radio, rearview camera, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, illuminated visor mirrors, power liftgate, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, rear spoiler, black roof rails, bi-xenon headlights, fog lights, 265/60VR18 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
FX45 adds to FX35:
Powertrain
4.5-liter V8 engine, all-wheel drive.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power sunroof, wood interior trim, keyless access and starting, remote engine start, wireless cell phone link, universal garage door opener, cargo cover, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 265/50VR20 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Touring Pkg.
|
||
|
FX35
|
$1,300
|
$1,121
|
|
Power sunroof, universal garage door opener, cargo net, automatic headlights.
|
||
|
Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
FX35
|
$2,000
|
$1,723
|
|
Aluminum pedals, black chrome grille, aluminum roof rails, tinted-headlights and taillights, sport suspension, 265/50VR20 tires. Requires Touring Pkg., Hands Free Pkg.
|
||
|
Technology Pkg.
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$4,050
|
$3,490
|
|
Navigation system, adaptive cruise control, Lane Departure Warning system. FX35 requires Touring, Hands Free Pkg.
|
||
|
Hands Free Pkg.
|
||
|
FX35
|
$600
|
$517
|
|
Wireless cell phone link, keyless access and starting, remote engine start. Requires Touring Pkg.
|
||
|
Run-Flat Pkg.
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$350
|
$302
|
|
Under-cargo-floor storage bin, unique suspension, run-flat tires. Deletes spare tire. Requires Technology Pkg. FX35 requires Sport Pkg., Touring Pkg.
|
||
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation system
|
||
|
FX45
|
$1,800
|
$1,551
|
|
DVD entertainment system
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$1,400
|
$1,206
|
|
Requires Technology Pkg.
|
||
|
iPod adapter
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$290
|
$242
|
|
Cargo mat
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$70
|
$50
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Black roof rail crossbars
|
||
|
FX35
|
$250
|
$214
|
|
NA w/Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
Aluminum roof rail crossbars
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$350
|
$288
|
|
FX35 requires Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
Mud guards
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$140
|
$90
|
|
Trailer hitch
|
||
|
FX35, FX45
|
$690
|
$578
|
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Infiniti FX Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Infiniti FX 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.2 |
| Overall Length, in. | 189.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 75.8 |
| Overall Height, in. | 65.9 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4315 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 64.5 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 23.8 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.9 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.2 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V6 | dohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.5 /214 | 4.5 /274 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 275 @ 6200 | 320 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 268 @ 4800 | 335 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 5-speed automatic | 15/20 | 13/17 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Infiniti FX 4-door wagon |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 6/70,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/60,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 7/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/unlimited | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Japan
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Infiniti FX Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Infiniti FX Full Review
7.
8.
9.
Car Buying Resources
Vehicle History Report
Locate a Dealer
Sell Your Car
Powered by:
-
MAKE -
CATEGORY
Acura
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Ford
GMC
Honda
Hummer
Hyundai
Infiniti
Isuzu
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mercury
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pontiac
Porsche
Rolls-Royce
Roush
Saab
Saturn
Scion
Smart
Subaru
Suzuki
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Subcompact Car
Compact Car
Midsize Car
Large Car
Premium Midsize Car
Premium Large Car
Sporty/performance Car
Premium Sporty/performance Car
Minivan
Full-size Van
Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Compact Pickup Truck
Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Pickup Truck
Premium Compact Car
Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Exotic Car
