But for the time being Infiniti is top dog in its price range, possibly only overshadowed by the Porsche Cayenne at approximately twice the window sticker. The FX is a wonderful all-round SUV too, as functional as it is sporty. Few vehicles come as fully featured and even less are as stimulating in the styling department, inside and out. The applecart is truly upended. The new Infiniti FX35 and FX45 are now your best bets when it comes to a premium sport utilities, with the emphasis on sport.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $52,500 - $67,400
• Body Type: 5-door SUV crossover
• Layout: front engine, AWD
• Base Engine: 280-hp, 270 lb-ft of torque, 3.5-L 24-valve DOHC V6
• Opt Engine: 315-hp, 329 lb-ft of torque, 4.5-L 32-valve DOHC V8
• Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (seats up/folded): 776 / 1,710 L (27.4 / 64.5 cu ft)
• Towing Capacity: 1,588 kg (3,500 lb)
• Ground Clearance: 193 mm (7.6 in)
• Fuel Economy (V6 city/hwy): 14.3 / 10.0 L/100 km (20 / 28 mpg)
• Fuel Economy (V8 city/hwy): 15.9 / 11.2 L/100 km (18 / 25 mpg)
• Direct Competitors: Acura MDX, BMW X5, Mercedes M-Class, Porsche Cayenne S
• Website: www.infiniti.ca