"Get the Nissan 370Z out of my Infiniti luxury SUV," says assistant Web producer Carlos Lago. "I expect ride harshness and road noise from a two-door sports car, but not from the FX50. Throttle tip-in is much too aggressive; leaving a stop without getting all herky-jerky is much too difficult."
Sensitive throttle aside, Lago likes the 5.0-liter V-8 a lot. "It's potent and fun when you row the gears yourself. The engine note sounds great. The roar on start-up echoed through my apartment complex's parking area, leaving me satisfied, and I hadn't even moved." Inside, Lago appreciated what technology the FX had to offer. "The infotainment system works well, with easy-to-use nav and iPod controls. The interior feels elegant, and Around View is the coolest piece of new tech since the GT-R."
| 2009 Infiniti FX50 S |
| Months/miles in service | 9/22,823 |
| Avg econ/CO2 | 17.3 mpg/1.12 lb/mi |
| Unresolved problems | None |
| Maintenance cost | $764.99 (3 - oil change/inspection/rotate tires, replace engine and cabin air filters) |
| Normal-wear cost | $0 |