The FX also continues Infiniti's trend of improved fit and finish, higher quality interior materials and near top of class ergonomics. Still, if there is an area that the X5 beats the FX it's here. As good as this new SUV is, BMW's vault-like solidity and interior build quality is second to none in the sport utility market. But perceived quality is one thing and dependability is another. Infiniti ranks second only behind Lexus in J.D. Powers respected 2002 Vehicle Dependability Index. Its 194 problems per 100 vehicle rating placed it well ahead of BMW who placed tenth behind Jaguar with a score of 281. By the way both brands placed well ahead of the industry average of 355.

When it comes to functionality the Infiniti's 776 L (27.4 cu ft) of storage with the 60/40 split rear seatbacks upright tromps the X5's 456 L (16.1 cu ft) cargo area. Somehow the BMW manages to expand dramatically with 245 L (8.7 cu ft) more space when the rear seats are folded, resulting in 1,955 L (69.0 cu ft) for the BMW and 1,710 L (64.5 cu ft) for the FX.

While the FX35 and FX45 are each loaded with standard features, including xenon headlamps, halogen fog lights, a power glass sunroof, independently reclining rear seats, a telescoping and tilting steering wheel that also tilts the gauge cluster so not to impede the line of sight, 8-way power driver's seat and 4-way power front passenger's seat, memory for driver's seat/mirrors/steering wheel, dual front and front and rear side-curtain airbags, security and immobilizer systems, all the expected power features and much more, one of two optional packages is available depending on which model is chosen. With the V6 the aforementioned Touring Package includes the DVD navigation system, rear view monitor, DVD family entertainment system with drop-down 178 mm (7.0 in) LCD monitor, intelligent key, intelligent cruise control, tire pressure monitoring system, drilled aluminum pedals, sport-tuned suspension and 20-inch alloy wheels. The FX45's High Tech Package includes all of the above except the last four items mentioned, which are standard with the larger engine.