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INFINITI FX35 REVIEW
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| Ratings |
( Maximum score is 100 ) |
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| Overall: |
 ( 100 )
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| Comfort: |
 ( 80 )
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| Performance: |
( 100 )
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| Quality: |
( 100 )
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| Appearance: |
( 100 )
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| Comments |
Favorite feature: |
Emphasizes Sport over Utility |
Least favorite feature: |
Sacrifices Utility for Sport |
Advice to buyer: |
The FX is a SUV for drivers, not passengers or cargo |
Detailed review: |
I've had an FX35 with the the Touring, Performance and Technology Packages for 8 months and 11,000 miles. The FX emphasizes the 'S' in SUV. The FX35's 280 hp engine is more than adequate and its manumatic transmission is excellent, the sport suspension is taut and doesn't allow much body roll, the 20' wheels and tires are wide and grippy, the exhaust note is the best available from a V-6 engine, and the seats are supportive and comfortable, even for passengers. However, the FX sacrifices the 'U' in SUV. It has a stiff ride for passengers, more engine noise than most passengers like, rear doors that must be opened wide for entry and egress, and little cargo room. Performance negatives include an adaptive cruise control that does not function smoothly or reliably enough, a slightly wide turning circle of 38.7 ft, and poor gas mileage (16.7 mpg on the highway at 80 mph and 15 mpg or less around town). The lane departure monitor works well enough to be useful during long highway excursions. The nav system's maps are 2 to 3 years out of date and its user interface, both the display and the controls, could be greatly improved. However, as a driver, I prefer the FX's balance of 'S' and 'U' over that of any other SUV I have driven. |
Also considered: |
2005 Land Rover LR3
2005 Honda Pilot
2005 Toyota Highlander
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Vehicle purchased: |
2005 Infiniti FX35
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| About This Reviewer... |
Location: |
Avon, Connecticut |
Other vehicles owned: |
2003 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan
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Review submitted: |
February 20, 2006 |
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