2009 Infiniti FX

Special FX

The Infiniti FX has evolved from a pseudo-SUV into a high-horsepower machine that focuses on paved-road performance.

The Infiniti FX was one of the first luxury crossover utility vehicles. It was a hit with drivers who wanted an SUV but who had no real need for off-road capabilities. The FX is redesigned for 2009, although its silhouette remains similar to that of the outgoing model.

Starting with a prominent, wavy grille and finishing off with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the all-new Infiniti FX makes a bold  visual statement. Whether any statement should be wrapped in a sparkly chocolate brown paint job is open to debate, however. Despite its brawny looks, the new FX is still car-like in many ways, and meant primarily for the pavement.

The FX seems rather small at first, until you get up close and the big snout betrays the car's true scale. It's not clear how they pull off this small-yet-big effect: European product marketing manager (the new FX marks the brand's debut in the European market) Nicolas Tschann says it's because of the design's rounded front and radically sloping rear. That treatment seems standard these days, but it actually works for FX.

The FX been radically re-engineered, far more than a run-of-the-mill model evolution normally warrants, according to Tschann. "There's the new platform. The new transmission. The new engine," he says. "The intake's been changed. There's a variable valve system on the engine now, which means it's better optimized, and can achieve a higher rpm. That's comforting."

The new FX line comes in three models — a 380-hp V8 engine will propel the FX50 and another will carry an advanced V6. No word on whether the third will be a hybrid or diesel, although both variants have been topic of speculation.

Inside, the FX features tan upholstery with the usual wood trim. What should be intriguing is the 11-speaker hi-fi system that Bose developed specifically for the vehicle. Rounding out the perks package is intelligent cruise control, a blind spot monitoring system, and in-dash navigation.

Check back for a full review.