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Infiniti FX45 Infiniti FX35

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Comments

  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    On my FX45 w/Tech Package, I have a tire pressure monitor which is really nice but the display is confusing because it does not label which reading belongs to which tire--which I find rather odd...can anyone explain? Also, during stop-and-go driving I find that the readings fluctuate anywhere from 32psi to 37psi....is this normal?
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    On my FX45, according to my trip computer, my average MPG (mixed city/highway driving) is about 14.9 (w/about 2000 miles on my car), and I drive pretty aggressively. That's pretty decent considering that a BMW X5 4.4i gets about 11-12mpg.
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    The allroad does have some features that I do miss which includes the adjustable air suspension, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a deeper cargo area, neat map reading lights for all passengers, and the beautiful wood and interior finishing. It also has a real solid feel to it all the way around with no squeaks or rattles in the 34,000 miles that I drove it. I'll also miss the included free maintenance that Audi gives you for 4 years/50,000 miles, and my dealer's service was consistently outstanding.

    When I first sat in the FX the first thing I noticed is the much higher seating position (like a SUV) but as soon as I took the first turn I was amazed at how well the vehicle handled, especially considering its added height. The next thing I noticed is the power, expecially from a dead stop the thing accelerates like crazy (and the allroad is not exactly slow, especially with the chip that I had in it). Once you are underway, the performance of the two cars is very similar - the twin turbo six in the allroad (especially chipped) provides some serious thrust, as does the FX. The exhaust note from the FX's V8 is definitely meetier - I find it to be intoxicating and very cool. And last but not least is the FX's braking feel - much smoother pedal feel than the allroad, which does have a well-known problem with their rotors that some have had to replace about every 10,000 miles. Toward the end mine were going bad and there was noticeable vibration when braking.

    Looks are subjective but I think most would agree that the FX's styling is several years ahead but of course some might prefer the less-flamboyant look of the allroad wagon body. I like the lines of the FX and it sure does attract a lot of attention on the road, whereas the allroad blends in more.

    As for reliability it's too early to say but my allroad was very reliable with only one unscheduled problem, other than the above-noted brake rotors. If I had not learned that Audi plans to discontinue the allroad after the next model year - at least that's the strong rumor - I probably would have gotten another one. But I guess in a way I was ready for a change, and the Infiniti really grabbed my attention. So far it hasn't disappointed.
  • trragtopstrragtops Member Posts: 7
    I have 1,100 miles on fx45 prem and I'm averaging 15-16 mpg with about 50/50 city- hwy driving. My calcualtions are close to the fuel econ calculator. This compared to my 01 Chrysler Grd Caravan that gets 17 mpg. and SAAB 900 that avgs 21. I will soon switch to synthetic oil and also raise tire pressuer to 35 and see what results I get
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    Considering that the FX45's V8 is the same engine as in the Q45, anyone have any ideas as to why Nissan/Infiniti limited the hp to just 315 in the FX? Any ideas as to how to possibly get that extra HP (and torque) back? (chip? exhaust modification?)
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    They say it was because they wanted the engine in the FX to have more torque as opposed to peak HP but I don't think the torque rating is as high either. I would like to see the HP and torque curves of the two vehicles plotted out to see how they compare. Maybe the FX has a flatter torque curve? Not sure.

    I'm sure there will be aftermarket stuff put out by some tuners real quick. I doubt that a chip would do much since it's a non-turbo engine. I have no plans to mess with it myself.
  • blckthreeblckthree Member Posts: 153
    I had read that the Q45 has a different cam to give it the extra 25 HP. I also have not seen torque curve numbers, but heard the reason for the reduced HP in the FX was to give it more torque at lower rpms.
  • himilerhimiler Member Posts: 1,209
    Giving the FX HP equal to or greater than the Q45 flagship wouldn't have done much for the Q's image or sales.

    Strictly a political decision.

    Personally, I think the FX45 should be Infiniti's flagship model. It's a prime example of a vehicle that plays by its own rules and doesn't apologize for it. You've got to respect that.
  • bpraxisbpraxis Member Posts: 292
    Hello everyone and I hope that you are having a great day. As I am in the market for a new vehicle and considering seriously the purchase of a new FX35 non sport.

      The Orlando Infiniti dealership and Scott Infiniti in South Florida both have approximately 40 FX models.

      It seems that the initial demand is not what Infiniti expected. Hopefully this will translate into big savings come negatiating time. $500 over invoice anyone?

      Maybe it will take time for the market to respond to the FX dramatic styling and lack of practicality relative to the competion.

      It is ok with me because I like to drive something that few people have and the quality of the vehicle should be great.

      Let me pose my question one more time regarding ordering a 2004 with cloth as opposed to leather. Will I be able to sell the vehicle eventually? Living in Florida Leather really makes my back sweat in the summer.

      Hopefully for 2004 Infinity will allow you to get the brick interior without the bone crushing ride of the sport package.
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    I can't answer your question regarding the resale value of an FX with cloth. However, I can definitely say that you can get better than $500 over invoice by taking advantage of the Grubbs Infiniti VPP pricing offer.

    Seems that Grubbs Infiniti can now ship anywhere in the 48 states for only $250 additional shipping cost. Wow!

    BTW, I bought my FX35 AWD at Orlando Infiniti for VPP price (benefit of my employer) and those guys are great. One of the best buying experiences ever!
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    Not having leather will kill the value and market of the vehicle. Only make this move if you keep vehicles 5-7 years as then the extra depriciation won't amount to much. Remeber your no option vehicle will compete with tech package vehicles that may only be a couple thousand more. So therefore more desirable to a used car buyer. those looking for a vehicle in the same market as the FX will definately want leather. just my .02
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    Just my opinion...
    But cloth as standard equipment on a $35K+ car is just plain ridiculous to me. If you're leasing, that's fine but buying..no way. BTW, couple years back when I leased my BMW X5 3.0i, vinyl-covered seating was standard! Even a cheap CD player was optional!
  • bpraxisbpraxis Member Posts: 292
    Could you please explain what VPP pricing is?
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    It stands for Vehicle Purchase Program similar in concept to ford x-plan and gm's GMS pricing. It is a prearranged price usually 1-2% over/under invoice available to suppliers, employees families and such. Grubbs Infiniti is offering this same nohassle pricing to memebers of "another" website. On my FX35 RWD with tech it worked out to $434 over invoice. Pre April 1 I think the VPP price was actually under invoice. Right Crikey?
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    clpurnell, you got it. More info on the VPP is at www.insidenissan.com. The best part about the program is that there is no stress-inducing negotiation (well, maybe a little if you want to get the unwanted dealer fees removed). Hope that helps.
  • bpraxisbpraxis Member Posts: 292
  • stlgasmanstlgasman Member Posts: 141
    Any favorites?
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    I'm partial to Black with Brick/Black. Maybe thats cuz I bought it :) However I saw a red with black interior and that is a hot combo.
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    "I'm partial to Black with Brick/Black. Maybe thats cuz I bought it :)"

    That's what I bought too. How are you doing keeping it clean? Looks beautiful after a wash & wax job, but it's a dust magnet! It's the first black car that I've owned since a '83 VW GTI, and I forgot how hard they are to keep clean! So far it's a "labor of love" though. Sure getting lots of stares around town.
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    I am wiping it down every day and wash once a week. This is my first black car and it is a pain to keep clean. I will probably buy a "California Duster" to help get it clean in between washes. It is very eye cathing. I saw a twin to Crikey's FX when I went to see X2 with my daughter. It was pretty nice also.
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    I bought a FX45 in Diamond Graphite/Willow-Black: very nice color combo. A black exterior is very nice, too.....when it's clean. My last car, BMW X5, was black and it was hell gettin every little scratch out. I love the Diamond Graphite....it's like metallic steel grey: sharp lookin and hides dust/scratches easily.
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    My wish list for 2004+ FX45:
    1) At LEAST 340 HP (Lexus, BMW, MB will catch up fast)....the new Caddy SRX SUV is just as fast.
    2) Adjustable suspension or air suspension (i.e. Porsche Cayenne)
    3) Voice-activated NAV system (like Acura/Lexus)
    4) 6-sp. Automatic (or a "sport" mode like in X5)
    5) Bigger passenger room/cargo area
    6) Bigger glove box/storage area for headphones
    7) Body side moldings (to prevent door dings)
    8) LED instrument panel (current orange-lit gauges are kind of ugly)
    9) Options separated instead of in "packages"
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    psb1013, I really liked the Diamond Graphite too but my last car was very close to that color so I decided to go black this time around. I already miss the ease of maintenance of the gray, but I must say the black is really sharp on the FX body style....when it's clean. <g>

    clpurnell, I was thinking of one of those CA Dusters too - just something to sweep the dust off that would not scratch the paint, which is something I am taking great pains not to do. I hate the thought of getting lots of small scratches and swirl marks on the finish. Even a soft cloth can do this with dust. Where is a good place to buy the CA Duster? Do they work as advertised?
  • stlgasmanstlgasman Member Posts: 141
    Did anybody choose Beryllium? Do you all think the graphite interior is too dark?
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    JB

    Walmart has a small dash one for $6 and a medium sized one for $10. I think an autozone type store might have an even larger size. I have not used one personally but I talked to an infiniti dealer who had a black G and he swore by it. At 10 bucks it's worth a try.

    Wish List

    1) More Seat adjustment for Passenger u/d(supposedly on 2004)
    2) Factory Chrome wheel Option (starting with may production per FA)
    3) Wider back seat entry wells
    4) More storage place in the cabin
    5) Nav as stand alone

    2 of my 5 I have heard are being adressed. I really don't think it needs more power I mean the 45 beats everything short of a TT cayenne and my FX35 will run with a X5 4.4 All for a lot less $$$$. These are great cars. My wife likes mine so much she is asking for her own :)
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    clpurnell, I believe 1, 2 and 5 are being addressed already, correct me if I am wrong. I don't think #3 will be corrected since that would require a pretty major body change, and the vehicle just came out. So far I have found the storage space to be adequate - the side pockets are pretty roomy and the center console is deeper than most. The glove box is on the small side however. Maybe they could add some slide out compartments under the front seats?

    My main wish list would echo that mentioned in the post above, which would be an adjustable suspension (with sport/normal setting, the sport being the current setup). In the reviews and customer feedback that I've seen, the firm ride is the main criticism and addressing this issue would greatly expand Infiniti's potential customer base, I think. That said, I hope they don't do anything that would lessen its handling abilities by softening it up too much - just add the option via a switch for when you're driving on really rough roads, have clients aboard, etc.
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    Sure, 315hp may be fine now, but in a couple years, cars w/300+ hp will be as commonplace as cars w/200hp today. And as they say, you can never enough power....hehe. Also, I really wish they made the NAV voice-activated like in the Q45. Using that annoying small joystick to change info. is frustrating (and you can't change stuff when the car is moving). BTW, a while ago, I saw a cool-looking pre-production photo of a FX45 w/chrome wheels and turn signal marker lights on the side mirrors (ala Benz)....guess you can't have everything.
  • bpraxisbpraxis Member Posts: 292
    One of the easiest things for Infinity to do to ehance the crossovers saleability is to increse the range of color options for the exterior and the interior.

      The brick interior is fun but not available on the white or non sport vehicle.

      How about a nice medium metalic red which would be more elegant than the red offered.

      The willow interior is going to be a pain from a maintainance standpoint and it is kind of boring unless you choose an exciting exterior color.

      There are many inexpensive cars that offer a much broade range of color choices.

      I am hoping that sometime in the future car companies will allow us to individualize our color combinations.

      Can anyone comment on how much below invoice they are buying the FX for?
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    Short of buying under previous VPP schedule I don't think anyone is buying under invoice. I got mine for $434 over invoice or about 3800 under MSRP. If you are anywhere near texas or willing to buy out of state you can get the same deal from Grubbs in Dallas through the end of the month. I agree on colors I would love to see a deep blue color and a tan interior that is darker than willow but not as dark as the brick. Either way i still love my car and enjoy it more with every drive.
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    I like to see Infiniti offer a similar exterior color to that offered on the new 40th Anniversary Mustang: "Mystichrome"....it changes color from dark purple/green to silver to black depending on viewing angle and weather...now something like that would go well with the futuristic styling on the FX. I would also like to see Infiniti change the interior to something a lot more futuristic to match the exterior.....like LED gauges, uncoventional steering wheel, etc....more like what we saw on the concept car. The current interior is too dull. BTW, I have the Willow interior and even though it's a little more work to maintain, it looks more "clean" and "airy" and makes the interior look more spacious. The Brick color is "fun," but it may be too much of a "fad" in my opinion and may go out of style in year or so.
  • stlgasmanstlgasman Member Posts: 141
    I went by the dealer. They had maybe 40 on the lot but only one desert sand. I thought the desert sand was attractive. I thought the willow interior was attractive but maintenance is an issue. Does anybody know if the factory all weather mats match?
  • stlgasmanstlgasman Member Posts: 141
    Is this only a problem with the tech package?
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    The factory rubber mats that come with the Willow interior is a close match but to me, they're kind of flimsy...I bought the ones from WeatherTech....much better!
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    With cars equipped with Laser (Intelligent) Cruise Control, there is a known problem with radar detectors (esp. Valentine One) frequently going off.....most likely due to the front laser sensor gauging the distance of the car ahead to "pre-pump" the brakes (Brake Preview). No solutions to my knowledge.
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    I thought the willow interior was attractive but maintenance is an issue.

    I have the willow interior and have twin toddlers. The interior does require a bit more maintenance but I think it's a small price to pay to get a more inviting, airy, and spacious feeling, IMO. Just get a good quality Leather cleaner/conditioner like Lexol and it should be OK.

    The brick interior is also good but not in my Ivory Pearl FX35 AWD :). I don't think it would have blended in well. Graphite is too spartan, IMO.

    Does anybody know if the factory all weather mats match?

    The factory all-weather mats are in Tan, which is a bit darker than Willow. The factory mats are a perfect fit in the FX. You can also try WeatherTech Mats but I cannot vouch for how the mats fits in the FX.
  • psb1013psb1013 Member Posts: 92
    I bought the WeatherTech mats in Tan for my Willow Interior. The color is very similar to that of the factory rubber mats but the quality is much higher. The fit is fine, too, although the rear ones need a little trimming (takes only a couple minutes).
  • stlgasmanstlgasman Member Posts: 141
    I test drove both today. I thought the cornering on the sport was terrific but you sure feel the road. Does anybody think that the resale value of the sport will be relatively higher than the premium?
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    Good question. On one hand you could say that most buyers who would be interested in this vehicle on the used market would be after the razor sharp handling of the sport package. But the premium I think would cater to a potentially wider audience, because it does ride smoother. Some have reported that the Sport model's extra firm ride can be tamed somewhat by buying 18 inch wheels & tires, like those on the premium model, so this is always an option too.
  • toeknailtoeknail Member Posts: 5
    You can definitely do better than the $1000 over invoice suggested a few posts back. I got my AWD FX35 w/ Premium for $425 over invoice, or just over $3000 off MSRP. And if your local dealer isn't willing to sell for a price you think is acceptable, try out Grubbs... everyone seems very happy with their VPP offer. Even better if you don't have to have it shipped.
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    I think the difference in resale will be relatively minor maybe 1k more for the sport and not neccesarily because of the suspension but because of the huge 20" Wheels. Some people could get scared off by the rough ride and tire replacement cost though. It is really a toss up I would say buy what you like the best. My right side tires had nearly 50 psi of air in them I brought them down to 32 psi and drove over one of the roughest roads in houston today and the ride was not jarring at all. Have driven that route in many cars and the ride in a lot of average cars has been much rougher. The moral of the story is check you tire pressure if your ride is way too rough.
  • toeknailtoeknail Member Posts: 5
    Because this will be our family vehicle, I went with the Premium package only. Don't be fooled because it doesn't include the "sport package"... this thing is incredibly sporty as is. Drives very much like a BMW. I have no doubt that the Sport Package is that much better handling, but the premium is no slouch.
  • blckthreeblckthree Member Posts: 153
    I have a FX35 AWD Premium and don't feel that I have had to sacrifice anything in handling by going with the Premium instead of the sport.

    4300 miles, no problems, no complaints. This is one sweet machine! It is everything I expected and more. The engine just gets better the more it is driven.

    Try it, you'll like it!
  • blckthreeblckthree Member Posts: 153
    I have a black FX, I tried the CA duster. I was skeptical at first, but it works well. I have noticed no scratches from using it and it keeps it looking good.

    Like their instructions say, do not use it on a warm vehicle or the wax will transfer from the duster to the vehicle. big mess! I also noticed the first few times I used it, I did get some small deposits of wax on the finish, but that has since disappeared. No problems anymore. Make sure you let it sit on the newspaper, like the instructions say to leach out the excess parifin wax.
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    Thanks for the info - do know if they sell these pretty much everywhere, and are there different types/models that are better than others for a black car? Any specific recommendation based on your experiences would be appreciated, also where best to buy.
  • blckthreeblckthree Member Posts: 153
    I got mine at Walmart for about $10.00. It is probably about 18 inches long, plus the handle. I didnt do much research when I got it, just seen it and brought it home. I think the only differences in them is size. Haven't seen it, but I think they make a bigger one, for truckers.

    Once a day and it looks great! Now if i could figure out how to keep the bugs off that easy.
  • crikeycrikey Member Posts: 1,041
    I remember seeing the California duster at Costco also. It was a 2-pack -- one big and one small. I think it was at least $10.00 for both, if not more. I think I'll get one also on our next Costco trip.
  • knockoffknockoff Member Posts: 72
    Please share any info you have about going off the paved road w/your FX. 18" or 20" wheels? I love this car but like to do light off-roading and afraid I would damage wheels and/or tires. thanks.
  • JBaumgartJBaumgart Member Posts: 890
    I don't think the FX is well suited to go off-road at all, in either configuration. It's design is to maximize performance on the street. When you first drive it you think you are piloting a sports car, except your driving position is a lot higher. The suspension in the Sport Pkg in particular is very firm, and would not be well suited to traversing boulders and streams, for sure. The most I hope to use mine for will be going down unimproved gravel roads to the boat launch, which in itself will require care and lower-than-normal speeds. For real off-road use, however infrequent, I'd look elsewhere.
  • hootspahootspa Member Posts: 11
    I wouldn't take this vehicle off-road except on a smooth dirt road for a short distance. Why damage the beautiful tires and wheels and body? The AWD is meant mainly for superior traction on regular roads. This holds for most SUV's except the real heavy-duty models with good ground clearance and skid plates and a low AWD mode. I can't imagine anyone taking the new $100,000 TT Porsche Cayenne off-road.
  • clpurnellclpurnell Member Posts: 1,083
    Buy a FX premium then go buy a 1990 jeep cherokee to toss around the stream and such. The FX is NOT an off road vehicle at all. You MAY be able to jump a curb or two to get out of traffic. If you really want a high dollar boulder crawler look at the 4runner/gx470, LR Disco or Range or maybe the new toureg. I prefer taking high speed corners then low speed ditches thats why I bought the fx. I think you would be very unhappy if you actually bought this vehicle for off road use. On road however is a totally different story :-)
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