Up Close: 2009 Infiniti FX

Where the new Nissan Maxima seemed an assertive step forward, Infiniti’s new FX doesn’t impress me quite as much. Its cabin has the same high beltline as the previous generation, which gives drivers a hunkered-down feeling in the cockpit. The wood and metallic trim are convincing and occasionally creative — they curl around the door handles in both rows of seats, for example — but I’m not crazy about the leather seats’ diamond-cut inserts. Typically you see this pattern in cars that cost a bloody fortune, where the quality of leather (and number of Bessys slain for it) befits the style. Sorry, but the cowhide here doesn’t smack of six figures.

Other aspects largely parallel the first FX: The sloping hatch creates a nasty blind spot and cuts off significant luggage room. The second row has the same convenient pull handles in the trunk to send it down. (Some may want a power-folding second row, as the EX and new Nissan Murano have, but it doesn’t appear the new FX will go that route.)

As was the case before, redemption will probably come with a good old-fashioned stomp on the gas. The outgoing FX45’s 320-hp V-8 was oodles of fun, and the prospect of a larger, 390-hp V-8 should give car nuts something to look forward to. If that doesn’t strike your fancy, the technology should — there’s Nissan’s Around View 360-degree monitor, a lane-departure prevention system and full-range cruise control that can bring the car to a complete stop. More photos of the FX from the show floor are below.

Related:
2008 Geneva Motor Show: 2009 Infiniti FX