Lack of reference points
Though the driver's seat benefits from numerous electric enhancers, there is an utter lack of reference points to help us drive the vehicle. Because of its strange shape, we don't know exactly where it is, space-wise. Driving through a familiar construction site, I was forced to take it very carefully as I couldn't properly judge the space taken up the FX35. I don't know where the hood or the fenders end. Other testers reported the same thing. And it's the same story when parking. This time, however, Infiniti has supplied the necessary gadgetry: the reverse camera system enables us to park where we should.

Nissan has displayed its know-how with this 3.5-litre, V6 mill.

Decent engine, decent transmission
Nissan has displayed its know-how with this 3.5-litre, V6 mill. Its smoothness doesn't betray its get-up-and-go. But the test data indicates that the FX35 performs well: from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and passing from 80 to 120 km/h in 5.7 seconds in automatic mode and 5.2 seconds in manual mode and third gear.

What we appreciated even more is the smoothness of the drive train. The automatic transmission responds well and shifts easily without any hiccups. The vehicle is surprisingly fuel-efficient: despite the premium gas requirements, we managed an average of 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres. With a 90-litre tank we can easily drive 700 km before needing to refuel.

Good handling abilities
If we discount the noisy tires and the absence of reference points, the FX35 displays good handling abilities. Predictable, it sticks to the road even in tight curves and it hardly rolls. Its intelligent AWD system ensures good tire grip. Because of its unconventional shape, it keeps us on the alert in the city.

And high marks for braking: 34 metres to stop such a vehicle at 100 km/h deserves a very good grade.

A question of preference
What are you looking for in an SUV, turn-head styling or practicality?


Photo Credit : Matthieu Lambert