EDMUNDS.COM 2004 INFINITI FX45
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
If you like the styling, the rest of the vehicle isn''t likely to let you down, as the FX45 delivers surprisingly adept handling and spirited performance for an SUV.
Pros
Dynamic styling, carlike reflexes, roomy interior, long list of standard features, V8 power.
Cons
No real off-road ability, minimal cargo room, unusual styling won''t please everyone.
What''s New for 2004
Minor suspension revisions, an air filtration system and an eight-way power front passenger seat are now standard. 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 FX45 has a V8 engine lifted from the Q45 and all-wheel drive adapted from the system in the Nissan Skyline GT-R sport coupe.Like BMW''s X5, the FX45 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 luxury sedans and true SUVs, the FX45 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. In terms of styling, the FX45''s relatively low-slung stance, raised rear deck lid and 20-inch wheels give it a more aggressive look than most other crossover SUVs. Entering the FX, 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 a DVD entertainment system to keep most every rear passenger amused for hours. Infiniti outfitted the FX45 to perform more like a luxury sedan than an SUV. As such, the FX comes with all-wheel drive; a 315-horsepower, 32-valve, 4.5-liter V8; and a five-speed automatic transmission. Although hard to believe by looking at it, the FX45 is capable of delivering the kind of performance that will have you looking for the scenic route more often than you might think.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The FX45 is a midsize SUV offered in one trim level. The long standard features list is highlighted by full leather seating and trim, power eight-way driver and front-passenger seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, HID headlights, 20-inch aluminum wheels and an in-dash six-disc CD changer. For additional features, there are two significant options packages. The Premium Package adds a sunroof, a Bose 300-watt audio system, steering wheel satellite controls, auto headlights and a programmable Homelink door opener. The Technology Package augments the equipment in the Premium Package with a DVD navigation system, intelligent keyless entry that uses electronic signals instead of a conventional key, a DVD entertainment system, radar cruise control, a rear-view backup camera and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
Powertrains and Performance:
All FX45s feature a 4.5-liter V8 engine that produces 315 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability sends the power to the ground via an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. Performance is impressive for an SUV, as the FX can accelerate to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. Not surprisingly, fuel mileage is considerably less impressive with EPA ratings of 15 mpg city and 19 mpg on the highway.
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. New for 2004 is a snow mode for the all-wheel-drive system that delivers 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 FX''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, as there''s just 64 cubic feet of capacity compared to 80 cubic feet or more in most midsize SUVs. The optional 11-speaker Bose stereo sounds incredible and may be one of the few factory-installed systems to rival the Mark Levinson systems offered in many Lexus models.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
The 4.5-liter motor delivers effortless acceleration and a thrilling exhaust note that''s unexpected in an SUV. The FX also handles surprisingly well for its size, but the tradeoff is a stiff suspension that''s uncomfortable on rough streets. For a softer ride, consider the FX35 with its smaller wheels and more forgiving setup.
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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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