Join us as we test the all-new, second-generation, 2009 Infiniti FX on the mountain roads outside of San Diego, CA. We tested the 2009 FX50 Sport with the new 5.0L V8 that produces 390 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Don’t need that much power? Then the 2009 FX35 is the model for you, with the new 3.5L V6 engine that still produces a respectable 303 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Both models will be available with AWD while the FX35 will also offer RWD. Even with the large engine, the FX50S gets surprisingly good fuel economy for a SUV, averaging 14 mpg in the stop-and-go traffic of the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Car Review Video of the 2009 Infiniti FX50S
The designers of the 2009 Infiniti FX have made several subtle changes, some visible and others hidden. Expanding upon Infiniti’s FM platform that was specifically designed and configured for use in the FX, the wheelbase is now longer for a sportier feel. The front end has added a wave design to the dark chrome grille and functional side gills. Scratch Shield paint with the self-healing clearcoat finish protects the eight available exterior colors from those unavoidable door dings and scratches. On the interior, Infiniti made sure to improve their navigation system, which is now also controllable via touch-screen.
Photos of the 2009 Infiniti FX35
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The interior of the FX is sticking with the trend of mixing the sports car feeling into SUV design. The automatic driving position system coordinates the steering wheel and mirror position as the seat is adjusted. The seating position is lower than expected in a SUV and the steering wheel is smaller than those found in most SUVs, the size and responsiveness more like something you’d expect in a sports car. The front seats have stitching patterns that are both elegant and sporty, complimented by details like the maple door insets that complete the SUV’s luxurious and expensive feel. While there isn’t much room in the backseat for those over 6 feet tall, the low step-in height of the SUV makes ingress and egress easy for all sizes. Even with the sporty feel and luxurious features, the FX is still a SUV with a cargo space that can supposedly can fit up to five golf bags before the using the 60/40 rear seat split for additional storage.
For more on the FX50S’ 7-Speed transmission with the Rev Matching feature or the other new technologies like Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) and Distance Control Assist (DCA) that weren’t touched on here, watch our 2009 Infinti FX car review video. But, if you feel the need to run out to the nearest dealer immediately, expect to pay around $56,000-$57,000 for the FX50S basics and somewhere between $62,000-$63,000 if you want all of the goodies.
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Charlie – please consider getting a hair cut. I know it SoCal, but you are the face to the masses. Also, what self respecting auto journalist test drives in sandals?
The FX – fuel economy still sucks. It is not on par with the Cayenenne, which is where Infiniti wants to be and still compares better with the X5 or X6.
Oh well.
I’ve loved the FX ever since it came out but the price tag has kept me from getting one. I know the FX is one of the most attractive, luxurious and fastest SUV in the market but Infiniti should lower the price a little bit; I think it would sell more.
Wow, I love the FX50. It’s such a huge improvement over the previous model. My only complaint would be the price tag