2008 Infiniti FX [ 2007 ]

#3

in Luxury Midsize SUVs

Based on analysis of 27 FX reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $38,050 - $50,100
Invoice: $34,980 - $46,026
MPG: 15 City / 22 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores
Overall:9.0
Performance:8.4
Exterior:8.2
Interior:7.4
Safety:9.3
Reliability:7.0
Pros
  • Sporty and fun to drive
  • Excellent acceleration and overall power
  • Striking appearance
  • Handles well in snow
Cons
  • Not intended for off-road driving
  • Tight interior limits rear head space and cargo capacity
  • Firm suspension can result in a somewhat bumpy ride

Infiniti FX - What the Auto Press Says

The 2008 Infiniti FX ranks 3 out of 15 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 27 published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti FX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The FX delivers sporty performance and handling that earns it a ranking near the top of its class.

In the 2008 FX, Infiniti comes through on its reputation for adding genuinely sporty driving to luxury cars. The FX is a pleasantly distinctive-looking SUV with the light and nimble handling of a sports sedan. Though it lacks seating and cargo space relative to other SUVs, the Chicago Sun-Times points out the Infiniti FX "can be considered a roomy substitute for a good sports sedan" and adds, "In fact, the FX feels more like a sports sedan than an SUV." For 2008, the FX remains largely unchanged, though XM Satellite Radio is a new standard feature.

The 2008 Infiniti FX comes in two main trims: the base FX35 and the FX45. The FX35 is available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions, whereas the FX45 comes exclusively with AWD.

  • "Call it a tall wagon. Call it whatever. We call it pretty good." -- Car and Driver
  • "Unlike many vehicles that we test (usually for a week), we had the FX for 10 days, and at the end of our time together we came to the conclusion that it is one of the best crossovers we've tested." -- MarketWatch
  • "I had a ball driving the FX35, and even more fun parking it and getting out to admire its meaty curves. It's a car I'd be thrilled to date -- I'm just not sure I'd tie the knot." -- U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman

FX Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)

The 2008 Infiniti FX has surprisingly sports car-like performance -- in part due to its light weight -- that earns it a high ranking. "Infiniti calls the FX the sports car of SUVs, and the taut suspension does not belie that claim," says Car and Driver. Despite being an SUV, the FX is not intended for off-road use, but drives well in the snow. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn whether you should upgrade from the F35's base V6 to the F45 model's V8 engine. continue

FX Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2008 Infiniti FX has original styling that resembles no other SUV on the market and ranks near the top of its class. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman concludes: "I don't have big muscles. But I felt like I did in the FX35. The funky crossover vehicle's taut, sculpted body did more for my self-image than a personal trainer." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn why the FX's wheels stand out, or check out our Infiniti FX Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue

FX Interior - 7.4 (Good)

Reviewers agree that the 2008 Infiniti FX is an SUV that travels light. This gives it sports-car speed, handling and appearance, but also means that it lacks some interior space compared to other SUVs. Consequently, its interior ranks near the bottom of the class. Still, the Chicago Sun-Times says: "The sporty-looking interior is mostly upscale, with only a few low-grade plastic pieces, and there are distinct 'zones' for the driver, front passenger and rear occupants." Continue with our Interior Review to learn why reviewers aren't thrilled about the FX's cargo space and rear cockpit, or check out our Infiniti FX interior photos. continue

FX Safety - 9.3 (Excellent)

The 2008 Infiniti FX does extremely well in federal government crash tests. But while the FX has a number of innovative safety features, many of them are optional with the extra-cost Technology Package. Regardless, the Chicago Sun-Times observes that "Infiniti hasn't stinted on safety." Continue with our full Safety Review to learn what the Technology Package offers. continue

FX Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2008 Infiniti FX reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The FX comes equipped with a four-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about its powertrain warranty. continue

Review Last Updated: 5/8/08