2007 Infiniti FX45
The 2007 FX45 ($56,570) features a 320-hp 4.5-liter V8, a sport-tuned suspension, a five-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive, perfect for our Colorado mountains. The Infiniti FX is designed to be driven enthusiastically, borrowing its chassis architecture from the rear-drive Nissan 350Z and Infiniti G35. Rather than an SUV, I'd call it a fine luxury sport wagon with a higher seating position. I should note that it has more interior space than the sport wagons can offer, and think it is also more exciting to drive than most of them. Put the V8-powered FX45's accelerator to the floor and you'll be rewarded with a healthy roar and acceleration to match. As RPM's rise, the sound becomes a higher-pitched hum. Brisk acceleration makes the big FX feel athletic and ready for fun. You get the feeling you can pass anything in front of you. It is definitely a drivers car.
All models come with leather seats, dual-zone climate control with microfiltration, power-adjustable heated front seats with driver's seat power lumbar support and adjustment memory, split folding and reclining rear seats, power tilt/telescope steering wheel, 300-watt Bose audio system with 11 speakers, steering-wheel controls, six-disc CD changer and MP3-CD playback, high-intensity discharge headlights, and roof rails (polished aluminum on the FX45). The FX45 gets a firmer suspension with 20-inch wheels as opposed to the 18-inch wheels on the FX35; new aluminum and wood interior trim finish; Intelligent Key with panic alarm, selective unlock mode, and answer-back; Bluetooth hands-free phone system; and memory for the driver's seat, mirrors and steering wheel. Sunroof, automatic headlights, aluminum roof rails, cargo net and cover and universal garage door opener have been added to the list of standard features on the FX45 for 2007. The FX45 model offers a Technology Package ($4,200) that includes a DVD-based GPS navigation system, satellite radio, and traffic-sensing cruise control, and a Lane Departure Warning System. A rear-seat DVD entertainment system is available also for ($1,400). Active safety features include sophisticated anti-lock brake system with electronic brake proportioning, electronic stability control (VDC), and the rear-view TV monitor.
The FX suspension felt stiff, reflecting Infiniti's decision not to make this SUV an off-road vehicle. With its limited travel and tight feel, the suspension gives the FX excellent handling on smooth, mountain roads. However, if you live on a long dirt road, the stiff suspension will make the FX less than ideal when traveling any distance on an unpaved road. And while the FX offers a high ground clearance of 7.6 inches, it doesn't have skid plates, underside armor, or the suspension tuning of a true off-road vehicle.
If you are looking for a luxury AWD wagon that offers all the handling and excitement of a sport sedan and do not live on a long dirt road or plan to take it off-road, the Infiniti FX45 would be a great choice.
Denis and his wife Jeanie live in Evergreen and own the Mountain Man Nut & Fruit store in Bergen Park.