Safety

The FX has standard dual front, side and side curtain air bags, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and assist, stability and traction control, front active headrests and seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) awarded the car 5 out of 5 stars (a perfect result) for every passenger in both front and lateral impacts. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) has rated it a "Best Pick" in its category.

Conclusion

I love to drive. At one point, I found myself thinking that if money was not an object, the FX45 would make a great road trip vehicle. It is comfortable, very well equipped, has AWD, has a good sized trunk and has power to boot. Of course, this would apply only if I lived in Arizona and drove to Florida to visit my parents. My handy navigation system would always tell me the location of the nearest gas station and Dunkin Donuts. I would not even worry about the replacement cost of the massive 20" tires.

The biggest thorn in the FX45's side is the BMW X5 4.4i. On the other hand, the FX35 smokes just about every other V6 laden SUV out there. For that reason, for its lower price and slightly smoother ride thanks to higher profile tires, I think the FX35 would be a wiser choice.

Good stuff:
V8 power
Pimped ride looks

Not so good stuff:
Gas is not free
Overly rough ride

Competitors:
BMW X5 4.4i
Mercedes ML500
Lexus GX470
Audi Q7 / VW Touareg