2009 Infiniti FX: Tester's Comments

2009 Infiniti FX 

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  • MSRP: $42,150 - $58,400
  • Invoice: $38,924 - $53,893

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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2009 Infiniti FX. See if the 2009 Infiniti FX is right for you.

Vehicle Evaluated


Make/Model: 2009 Infiniti FX35 AWD
Trim Level: FX35
Arrival Date: 02/12/2009
Engine: dohc V6
Bodystyle 4-door wagon
Transmission: 7-speed automatic
4WD/AWD: Yes
Base Price: 42,350
Price as Tested: 48,365
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 11452
Mileage at End of Test: 12656
Total Measured Miles: 1204
Total Fuel Used: 63.777 gals.
Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: 18.88 mpg (what's this?)
Problems During Test: None
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Major Options

Premium Package (Climate-Controlled Front Seats, Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System, Interface System for iPod, 2-Position Driver's Seat Memory, Outside Mirror w/ Reverse Tilt-Down, Power Tilt/Telescopic Steering Column, Magnesium Paddle Shifters/Aluminum Pedals, Quilted Leather-Appointed Seats, Aluminum Roof Rails, Cargo Cover and Cargo Net), Navigation Package (Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View Monitor, Infiniti Voice Recognition for Audio/Nav, XM NavTraffic w/Real-Time Traffic Info, 9.3GB MusicBox HardDrive/Compact Flash Slot, Single-CD In-Dash, 8" Color Display, Sonar System Front & Rear)

From the Back Seat

Damon Bell

I must admit that "sporty" SUVs like the FX don't make sense to me. In my book, the FX is an inherently compromised vehicle: Its rakish styling cuts into passenger/cargo space and hurts rear visibility, its heft and tall build undermine its handling prowess, and its performance suspension makes for a stiff, occasionally fidgety ride. That said, the FX35 has sprightly acceleration for V6 in a vehicle this size, and its interior accommodations and available luxury features are impressive. The FX's various tradeoffs may hit the sweet spot for many buyers; they just don't hit mine.

Don Sikora

The Infiniti FX35 offers unique exterior styling and a beautiful interior in a package that compares very well to a BMW X5. The 3.5-liter V6 is lively and it even offers OK highway fuel economy for a big, speedy SUV. The back seat is snug, and visibility isn't the greatest, but if you're looking at premium midsize SUVs, FX35 deserves a spot on your list.

Ed Piotrowski

My ideal Infiniti FX doesn't exist, and that is the V8 FX50 teamed with the V6 FX35's standard 18-inch tires. That said, the 2009 iteration of this sporty crossover is a quantum leap better than its predecessor. It's more comfortable, quieter, and more composed. If you dig a luxury SUV with more "S" than "U" this Infiniti is well worth a look.

John Biel

If the Infiniti FX35 was a domestic model, it would be pilloried as a 16.1-mile-per-gallon "gas hog," but as an import brand-name, those are, of course, 16.1 very "green," very resources-friendly mpg instead. That snarky complaint aside, there's also the issue of the odd throttle behavior and a style-before-function exterior design that limits rear visibility. Ride, handling, and interior comfort and materials are quite good, and may tip the balance for fashionistas shopping in this particular segment of the market.

Tom Appel

Our simply equipped base truck may be the best of the bunch. For under $50,000 you get some styling mojo, better-than-decent handling, and more than adequate power. BMW X5 intenders would do well to check out the FX, its mission is similar, its price lower.

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