Infiniti FX 30d S
We drive the facelifted Infiniti FX to find out if the updates boost the appeal of the luxurious crossover
The FX is still a rare enough sight in the UK to cause a stir. This latest round of updates hasn’t really done much to change the appeal – it looks imposing, drives well in a relaxing way and has loads of gadgets. The diesel engine is still relatively inefficient, but overall the FX is likeable. It feels genuinely different to rivals such as the BMW X6.
Infiniti has had a tough time establishing itself in a market dominated by German premium brands. But if there’s a car that’s bound to attract attention, it’s the flagship FX SUV – and thanks to a facelift, it’s now even bolder.
The updated 4x4 gets a new chrome grille inspired by the Essence sports car concept and a revised front bumper. Other changes include new 20-inch alloy wheels for ‘entry-level’ GT and GT Premium models – although the sporty S version we tested sticks with its vast 21-inch rims. In addition, there’s scratch-resistant Iridium Blue or Graphite Shadow paint, as tested here.
That’s about it for updates. Infiniti says buyers love the way the FX looks and drives, so it hasn’t made changes for the sake of it. But is there still room for improvement? We drove the flagship £53,390 FX 30d S Premium diesel to find out.
Jump inside and it’s easy to spot buttons and switchgear from Nissan models, but aside from some cheap plastics, it’s comfy and feels luxurious. And there’s lots of equipment, too. Our S model had an 11-speaker Bose stereo with a 30GB hard drive and integrated sat-nav system.
There’s also rear-wheel steering to aid turn-in, as well as adaptive suspension, although the FX 30 isn’t really that sporty to drive.
It’s not as agile as a BMW X6 40d, or as fast: the 235bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel is quite lazy and the steering, while quite precise, is on the heavy side. The car is relaxing, however. Its dampers cope well with the big wheels and the ride is okay.
Sadly, the FX isn’t very efficient. A £49,340 X6 40d has a 306bhp 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 and will accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds (1.8 seconds faster), yet claims 37.7mpg and emits 198g/km of CO2. By comparison, the Infiniti can only post 31.4mpg and a whopping 238g/km. But if you want to stand out, the FX wins.
