2008 Infiniti FX35 in Houston, TX - $4,067

Different. Effective. Cool. With an advertising tag line which boasts "twice the sport, all the utility," Infiniti developed a fast-moving, agile handling, uniquely designed ground-based rocketship designed for the "modern maverick." First leaping into the marketplace back in 2003, the FX35 is the embodiment of the direction and evolving soul of the Infiniti brand.

Sleek, smooth, quiet, powerful and responsive, the FX is a study of timeless beauty in sheetmetal. The underpinnings of the FX start with a modified version of the FM (Front Midship) platform, enhanced for SUV duties. The FM platform, shared with the sporty G35 coupe/sedan and the awesome Nissan 350Z coupe, features rigidity enhancements to handle the increased weight and torque demands of the FX SUV.

Power for the FX35 is generated by the highly-regarded 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6. Energy is transferred to the ground via a five-speed automatic gearbox with manual shift mode. The engine is mounted longitudinally for optimal weight distribution and control. The FX35 is offered in both rear-wheel and full-time all-wheel drive configurations.

On the road, the FX35 AWD is powerful, responsive and oh-so comfortable! The strong powertrain delivers a reassuring stream of power that builds driver confidence with the vehicle. Its large 20-inch tires grip the road surface like a stubborn mountain goat. The AWD system operates seamlessly -- all the driver notices is the FX's incredible traction in just about every situation.

A rigid chassis serves as the foundation of the vehicle's superb handling and stability. As a result, suspension hardware can be easily tuned for both optimum performance and a comfortable ride. The FX has a four-wheel independent suspension system equipped with struts integrated with a high-strength steel lower link and stabilizer bar in front and a multi-link rear suspension with a forged-aluminum upper link and rear stabilizer bar.

Interior appointments reflect first rate accommodations. The driver enjoys a command view of the road. Power seat controls for driver and front passenger are at the top of the seat cushion, next to the center console for optimum convenience. Comfortable seating and creature comforts galore spoil driver and passengers.

The display pod moves with the steering wheel so the driver always has an unencumbered view of the instrument panel. Although the center stack is a bit busy with controls, it is not enough to make time in the FX any less exciting. The center armrest features a fore/aft adjustment -- ideal for tall or short drivers. The center armrest also doubles as a storage bin with a power point as does the center stack for portable electrical appliances.

Rear seat passengers are not neglected in the FX35. Large, comfortable and inviting, the rear seat features dual cupholders that slide out from the seat cushion as needed. The manual releases for the 60/40 split rear seat are located in the cargo area to allow quick and easy folding of the rear seat flat with the cargo floor. The spare tire is located under the cargo floor.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 112.2; overall length: 189.1; width 75.8, height: 65.0 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.5L V-6 -- 280 hp at 6,200 rpm and 270 lbs-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Transmission: electronically controlled five-speed automatic with manual shift mode.

EPA fuel economy: 17 city/23 hwy., (RWD); 16 city/22 hwy., (AWD), using premium unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 27.4 cu. ft.

Payload capacity: 1,083 lbs.

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, roof mounted supplemental curtain airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, vehicle security system, engine immobilizer, vehicle dynamic control system, traction control, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, high intensity discharge headlights, fog lights and remote keyless entry.

Optional safety features include lane departure warning system (available in the Entertainment system package) and the Technology Package which includes the navigation system, rear view monitor, intelligent key and intelligent speed control.



Warranty

Basic: 4-year/60,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile.

Corrosion: 7-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 4-year/60,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Infiniti FX35 starts from $34,950 for the RWD model and $36,450 for AWD. Destination charges add $610.

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