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Test Drives:
2004 Infiniti FX45
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Infiniti has put the 'sport' in sport-utility vehicle with its FX45 crossover. I drove this brand
new 2004 model courtesy of Birchwood Infiniti, which has increased its inventory to
accommodate the increased demand for the brand. The dealership has several G-
sedans & coupes available, as well as FXs for test drives & immediate delivery. The
Infiniti brand has seen unparalleled success in Winnipeg in recent years and with the
introduction of all-wheel-drive sedans, the Japanese automaker can go head-to-head
with Mercedes 4Matics and Audi Quattros.
The FX45 is the Japanese equivalent of an Audi S4 Avant Quattro. The 20-inch wheels
don’t exactly make for a smooth ride, but they definitely make for a fun ride. The 2004
model received a re-tuned suspension due to customer complaints about its harsh
ride. The revised suspension seems to be just right for the enthusiast. For a
comfortable ride, take the 18s.
It is very difficult to define what category the FX fits in with. I wouldn’t exactly call it a utility
vehicle; it feels more like a sports car that can accommodate 5 passengers and
comfortably carry enough luggage for a weekend at the cottage. With a low (and sexy)
roofline and a swooping c-pillar, space is limited in the rear hatch. However, if you want
utility, go buy an Armada or Sequoia. This ‘car’ is made to drive. With 315hp and AWD,
the V8 FX is quite capable of sustaining drag races with the best sports cars. Just don’t
expect any wheelspin. The interior is wrapped in a unique grade of leather; one that
feels upscale and trendy. Hopefully it ages as well as Mercedes leather. The
dashboard features medium-grade plastics and aluminum trim. The information
center/DVD navigation screen uses a low-resolution ‘dated’ layout, a contrast to the
Germans’ high resolution iDrive/COMAND displays. It is unusual to see so many
square edges on the interior of a car with no exterior straight lines. I think the Murano is
much the same. Finally, I admire the bold interior & exterior colour options. This FX had
an exterior paint called Beryllium, with Brick leather. To sum it up in one word… trendy.
Doesn’t everyone want to be part of a trend?
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