Road Test: 2004 BMW X5 4.4i vs. 2004 Infiniti FX45 vs. 2003 Porsche Cayenne S vs. 2004 Cadillac SRX V8 awd
Second Place: Infiniti FX45
Infiniti likes to promote the idea that its FX45 provides the practicality of a sport/utility with the heart of a sports car. In essence it's correct. The front-midship chassis is based on the award-winning G35 Sport Sedan, and the 315-horsepower V-8 is derived from the powerful M45 and Q45 luxury sedans (the FX35 is powered by a 280-horsepower version of the V-6 out of, among others, the 350Z.) It turns out this is a solid place to start. Within this group, the FX feels the smallest and tightest and most dedicated to performance.
Last year, many criticized the FX for its harsh, stiff-legged ride on anything but smooth roads. Infiniti has addressed the firm suspension complaints, finding more compliance while giving up little athleticism in the 2004 model. In relative terms, the FX45's performance dropped by about one mph in the slalom and 0.02 g on the skidpad versus a 2003 we tested. Still, steering through the slalom at over 62 mph and clinging to the pavement at over 0.80 g is impressive for any vehicle, much less a sport/utility.
Our Take: 2004 Infiniti FX45
What's Hot
• Further proof that platforming can work
• Won't ever be mistaken for a Jeep
• Impressive brakes and sport-tuned suspension
What's Not
• High beltline and domed roof feel confining
• Tight rear-passenger accommodations
• Interior and dash lack Euro flair and tastefulness
Don't Miss
Rearview camera shows what's behind when backing Bottom Line
Unmistakably different approach feels more like a sport sedan than wagon or sport/utility |
In a straight line, the FX45 was well-suited to go toe-to-toe with its competition. With the best power-to-weight ratio, it ran alongside the quick Cadillac up to about 60 mph where the SRX opened up a small lead. By the quarter mile, the FX maintained its second-place finish by a narrow margin over the Porsche and BMW. When it came to hitting the binders, the FX was clearly better than average with repeated stops from 60 mph under 120 feet, with the best taking only 115. Dedicated sports cars would brag about these brakes, and only the Porsche did better in this test.
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