EDMUNDS.COM 2004 INFINITI FX35
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
A stylish melding of form and function, the FX35 offers carlike handling and all-weather capability in a package that will never be mistaken for your average Explorer.
Pros
Dynamic styling, carlike reflexes, roomy interior, long list of standard features, strong V6.
Cons
No real off-road ability, minimal cargo room, unusual styling won''t please everyone.
What''s New for 2004
All models receive minor suspension revisions, an air filtration system and an eight-way power front passenger seat. New options include chrome plating for the 20-inch wheels and a snow mode for added traction in slippery conditions.
Overview
Introduction:
So your passions veer toward high-performance sports cars, but your family obligations have pushed you toward something larger, more practical -- even, stodgy. As the automotive industry sees it, you''re the target buyer for a crossover SUV. But Infiniti knows that a shapeless jacked-up station wagon won''t do for you. Instead, performance must be primary, and it must be sufficiently overwhelming to mask any family-friendly nature. And that''s why Infiniti''s FX35 has a 280-horsepower V6 engine and an optional all-wheel drive adapted from the system in the Nissan Skyline GT-R sport coupe. Like BMW''s X5 and the VW Touareg, the FX35 aims to please those who seek on-road thrills and, when needed, all-weather capability -- should you feel the desire to scale rocky trails and thrash wildlife, look elsewhere. As a bridge between a luxury sedan and a true SUV, the FX35 shares a platform with the Infiniti G35, has a four-wheel independent suspension tuned for handling on pavement and lacks a low-range transfer case. Its relatively low-slung stance, raised rear deck lid and 18-inch wheels give it a more aggressive look than most other crossover SUVs. Entering the FX35, you''ll find a spacious five-passenger interior furnished with handcrafted leather and polished aluminum accents, with a cockpit that includes a "floating" instrument cluster with a 9.5-inch LCD display. The rear quarters can be equipped with an optional DVD entertainment system that should keep most every rear passenger amused for hours. Infiniti outfitted the FX35 to perform more like a luxury sedan than an SUV. As such, the FX comes with a version of Nissan''s award-winning VQ series V6 making an impressive 280 hp. The FX is also replete with all-wheel drive, but a rear-wheel-drive variant is available as well. Regardless of how many wheels are providing the power, the FX35 delivers impressive performance and a luxurious ride that will surprise anyone who thinks it''s just another lumbering SUV.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The FX35 is a four-door midsize SUV offered in one trim level. Standard equipment includes eight-way power driver and front-passenger seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, HID headlights, an in-dash six-disc CD changer and 18-inch aluminum wheels. There are three significant option packages for adding additional equipment. The Premium Package adds items like leather seating, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated seats and mirrors, a sunroof, a 300-watt Bose audio system, steering wheel audio controls, auto headlights and a programmable Homelink door opener. The Sport Package is identical to the Premium package, except for the addition of 20-inch aluminum wheels. For more gadgets, the Technology Package augments the equipment in the Sport package with a DVD navigation system, intelligent keyless entry (that uses electronic signals in place of a conventional key), a DVD entertainment system, radar-based adaptive cruise control, a rear-view backup camera and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
Powertrains and Performance:
The FX35 is available with either rear- or all-wheel drive. Both models use a 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift mode. All-wheel-drive models use an electronically controlled system that automatically directs power to the wheels with the most traction. Fuel mileage is about average as the FX35 rated to achieve 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway (AWD 16/22).
Safety:
Safety highlights include a full complement of airbags and four-wheel vented disc brakes with ABS, BrakeAssist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. Electronic traction and stability control systems also come standard. All-wheel-drive versions feature a snow mode for smoother takeoffs on slippery roads.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
With plenty of passenger room and a clean design, the FX35''s interior is comfortable and easy to get used to. The center console features a few too many buttons for our tastes, but once you''re accustomed to their placement, the layout proves functional. The sloping roofline makes for tight headroom in back, but the seat backs recline for added space when needed. Cargo room is tight at there''s just 64 cubic feet of room compared to 80 cubic feet or more in most midsize SUVs.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Built specifically to excel on the pavement where most owners will use it most, the FX handles more like a sedan than an SUV. Minimal body roll, quick steering and the powerful V6 engine all combine to provide a driving experience that few other sport-utes can match. If you like driving but need the utility of an SUV, the FX is one of the most enjoyable compromises available.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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