The FX35’s best attribute is its amazing looks. The high bonnet, angled front lights and high mounted chrome grill all combine to give the car a scary smile. The body shape also gives the car a very formidable stance, making other road users well aware of which car is coming towards them.
Inside it is lavished with enough buttons and knobs to keep a space shuttle pilot happy. However, the plastic used throughout just doesn’t have the luxury feel you’re expecting. It’s actually not all that bad and in other cars would be perfectly acceptable, but with a car aiming at such lofty heights, it could be better.
The FX also comes fitted with all the necessary gadgets, most of which are clear and easy to use. However, the navigation system is a complete mystery. Even after three days of driving, you’ll be hard pushed to figure out how to even pull up the menu, let alone input a destination.
Under the long curving bonnet of the FX is a powerful 3.5 litre V6 motor. Pressing the dash mounted starter button gets the power plant spinning into life and the raspy exhaust note gives you a clue to the 289 bhp available under your right foot. You have to use the tiptronic shift on the gearbox to get it dancing, but when you get it right it’s very rewarding.
Out on the open road, the Infiniti feels stable and poised. But once the surface gets a little uneven the car suffers badly from side scuttle.
All this leaves you often in two minds about the FX. Is it just another SUV that looks like a crossover model, or is it really as sporty and tough as its exterior suggests? Well, it’s a bit of both to be honest. The looks are great and the engine puts its money where its mouth is. But the brakes and interior could both be much better.
This car is taking a pot shot directly at Lexus, but to take on Lexus you need to very good, and some bits of the Infiniti still need improving.
Verdict:
Looks fantastic, has amazing road presence and goes like a rocket. However, for a brand that allegedly rivals Lexus, the interior could be better and more spacious.
Engine
3.5 V6
0-100 kph
7.1 secs
Top speed
219 kmph
BHP
289
ME price
US$48,500
(AED178,000)
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