2009 Infiniti FX: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Infiniti FX is redesigned, gaining freshened styling, more power, and additional safety systems. FX is a premium midsize crossover SUV available with V6 or V8 power. The FX35 teams a 303-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine with either rear- or all-wheel drive. FX50 models have a 390-hp 5.0-liter V8 and AWD. The FX35 gains 28 hp over the previous model, and the FX50 gets a boost of 70 hp over the 2008 FX45. Both use a new 7-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. FX35 rides on standard 18-inch wheels; FX50 on 21-inch wheels. 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. Newly available on FX are Infiniti's Lane Departure Prevention, Around View Monitoring, and Intelligent Brake Assist systems. LDP sounds a warning and activates the vehicle's stability control system in order to bring FX back into the proper lane. AVM uses four cameras to show the driver the entire circumference of the exterior on the navigation screen. IBA uses lights and warning tones if a forward collision is imminent and automatically applies braking power. A sport suspension and Continuous Damping Control suspension system are available for the FX50. Leather upholstery, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, keyless entry and starting, and a rearview camera are standard. Available features include adaptive cruise control that operates both at around-town and highway speeds, a 9.3GB hard drive to store digital media files, an advanced climate control system that filters mold and deodorizes air, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic information, DVD entertainment, and a wireless cell-phone link. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.

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 Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Infiniti FX and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. The Chrysler Aspen adds a gas/electric hybrid model, and the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and R-Class add a new diesel powerplant, as does the Volkswagen Touareg 2.